If you’ve ever wished your manicure could last longer, look stronger, and give you more shape and polish possibilities—then the Plexi-Gel manicure is something you should know about. At Snips SpaSalon, we’re proud to offer the cutting-edge enhancement system known as CND PlexiGel, designed to combine the best of gel polish, traditional enhancements, and sculpting, in a lightweight, long-wear solution.
What is a Plexi-Gel Manicure?
What is Plexi-Gel and how does it work?
Plexi-Gel is a brush-on gel enhancement system that offers both strength and aesthetics. There are different formulations: a “Shaper” (crystal-clear layer to strengthen/shape) and “Builder” or “Color Builder” (clear or colored gels that build length/architecture and polish in one). For example:
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The PlexiGel Shaper is “a crystal-clear brush-on gel enhancement that provides strength, protection and free-edge length to the natural nail for 3+ week wear.”
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The PlexiGel Builder is “a clear brush-on gel enhancement that provides strength, architecture and moderate/long length to the natural nail.”
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The PlexiGel Color Builder is “a brush-on gel enhancement that provides strength, architecture, and moderate/long length … in a variety of shades.”
Because these formulas are light-weight, self-smoothing and designed for professional use (cured with an LED lamp) they offer a refined way to shape, extend, and strengthen nails while giving you the look of a polished manicure.
Why consider Plexi-Gel? (The benefits)
Here are some of the big advantages:
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Strength & durability: It offers a protective layer to natural nails, which can help for clients who have weak, flat, or brittle nails. For example the Shaper version “provides a lightweight crystal-clear layer of protection, surface refinement, and strength to natural nails.”
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Length and shape possibilities: Because it works over tips or with sculpting forms, and has buildable architecture, you can achieve longer nails or add shape to flat nails.
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Colour + enhancement in one: The Color Builder version allows you to build the enhancement and get colour coverage at the same time—which can save time and give a clean, uniform finish.
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Longer wear: Clients looking for something that lasts beyond the typical 2-3 week polish wear can benefit.
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Upgrade look and feel: Because of the high quality formula (self-smoothing, less filing required) the finish tends to look more refined.
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Versatility: Works for maintenance (repair or rebalance) and for full new enhancement services. For example the Builder version highlights that it “can be rebalanced or removed.”
What happens in the salon service?
Here’s a typical step-by-step outline of how a Plexi-Gel manicure service looks at our salon. (We’ll tailor it based on your nails, natural-nail condition and desired length.)
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Client consultation: We’ll look at your natural nail plate, decide whether enhancement or strengthening is needed, what length/shape you want, and select which Plexi-Gel formula is best (Shaper / Builder / Color Builder).
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Prep: The technician performs proper nail prep (cleaning, light-buffing, removing previous product if needed). For example the product instructions say “Perform P.R.E.P. and apply CND PlexiGel Bonder to the natural nail. Cure for 10 seconds in the LED lamp.”
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Application: Depending on the formula:
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If Shaper: apply two layers, sealing the free edge each time, curing each layer for a minute per the instructions.
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If Builder or Color Builder: apply gel onto a tip or sculpting form (if extending length), cure layers until desired structure/length achieved. For example instructions: “Sculpt nails to the preferred length and shape using CND PlexiGel Builder, curing each layer for one minute.”
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If Color Builder: build colour + architecture in the same step.
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Shape & refine: After curing, the nails will be filed/buffed and refined into final shape.
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Top coat/finish: The product guidance mentions applying a top coat (PlexiGel Protector) then cure. Or if using CND Shellac colour afterwards, follow that system.
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Aftercare consultation: We’ll show you how to care for your nails and when to schedule a rebalance or removal.
After-care & tips to prolong wear
To help you get the most out of your Plexi-Gel manicure and protect the investment, here are good habits and things to remember:
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Avoid harsh chemicals: Use gloves when cleaning or doing heavy household chores—chemicals can undermine the enhancement and finish.
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Moisturize: Keep cuticles and skin around the nails well-moisturized to support nail health and prevent lifting.
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Avoid picking/lifting: If you notice any lifting or chipping early, call ahead for a quick maintenance rather than risk further damage.
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Schedule rebalancing: Because your nails grow, the enhancement needs a “rebalance” (fill or fix) every 2-3 weeks (or when growth shows) to maintain structure and avoid breakage.
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Mind the free edge: Keep your free edge at a manageable length for your lifestyle—longer nails look gorgeous but are more likely to snag or break.
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Removal matters: When you’re ready to remove or switch systems, please let us do it rather than pick it off—proper removal protects your natural nail underneath.
FAQs — What clients often ask
Q: How long will it last?
A: Because of the reinforcing gel structure, many clients enjoy 3+ weeks of wear before needing rebalance—not just polish touch-up. The Shaper version specifically states “for 3+ week wear.”
Q: Is it safe for weak or damaged nails?
A: Yes — in fact one of the main benefits is protecting and strengthening the natural nail plate. The formulas are designed to “boost wear” and “provide strength, protection and free-edge length.” But your technician will assess your nail health and advise what’s best.
Q: Can I get polish/colour?
A: Certainly — the Color Builder version gives you both enhancement and colour in one step. If just a clear or reinforcement layer is needed, you can also finish with your favourite polish or gel colour on top.
Q: Is removal difficult?
A: No harder than other enhancement systems—but correct removal is important. The product profiles note that all formulas “can be rebalanced or removed.” Make sure your technician follows the proper protocol so your natural nails stay healthy afterward.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: $60 for Plexi-Gel and don't forget it lasts for 3 weeks!
Why choose Plexi-Gel at Snips SpaSalon
At Snips SpaSalon, our team is trained and certified in advanced enhancement systems, including Plexi-Gel. We use professional-grade products (like CND PlexiGel) and take the time to assess your nail health, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals before recommending the best approach. Whether you want stronger natural nails, longer and shaped free edges, or a polished look that lasts beyond a typical gel manicure — Plexi-Gel is a superb option.
If you’re ready to explore it, book a consultation or Plexi-Gel appointment with us. We’ll walk through your options, show you some examples, and help you choose the perfect look and maintenance plan.