Every set, a limited edition
Gel-X Nails in Fond du Lac
Gel-X is a soft gel extension. It's thin, flexible and kind to your natural nails, and it's easy to repair, update or replace whenever you want something new. The Nail Edition's founder, Kelly Wondra, was the first Gel-X provider in Fond du Lac, and teaching guests how it works is still part of every appointment.
Pricing
Gel-X pricing
You’ll know your price before we start.
Your fingernails don't breathe. They're not living.
Kelly Wondra · Founder and Lead Nail Tech
Our approach
Healthy nails come first
Gel-X bonds to the nail you already have, so that nail matters most. That's why The Nail Edition doesn't do acrylic, hard gel or dip.
You may have heard that nails need a break to “breathe” between sets. They don’t. What they need is gentle prep, gentle removal and attention at every visit.
The appointment
How a Gel-X appointment works
Talk it through
Shape, length, color and any art.
Gentle prep
Cuticles are cleaned up and the nail surface is lightly prepped. We never touch live tissue.
Sizing
Each tip is sized to sit flush on your nail.
Apply and cure
Each tip is bonded with gel and cured under a lamp.
Color and art
One solid color is included. Art starts at $5.
Finish
Cleanup, a hand wash and aftercare tips before you go.
Compare
Gel-X vs. acrylic vs. builder gel
| Gel-X | Acrylic | Builder gel | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | A soft gel extension tip bonded with gel | Powder and liquid mixed into a hard layer | A soft gel brushed over your own nail for strength |
| Adds length? | Yes | Yes | No, it works at your natural length |
| How it comes off | Acetone soak-off | Usually filing plus soaking | Acetone soak-off |
| At The Nail Edition? | Yes | No | Yes, with manicures |
Recent work
Recent Gel-X sets
“You literally can go from today I want extra short almonds to next week I want extra long coffin shapes,” says Kelly.
Gel-X questions
Ask Kelly
Questions guests ask Kelly, answered in her words.
Does Gel-X damage your natural nails?
When natural nails get damaged, it's usually from heavy filing, rough prep or peeling a set off at home, not from Gel-X itself. At The Nail Edition, I keep prep light, never touch live tissue and soak every set off with acetone. The health of your natural nails is my first priority.
Let me take your set off. Picking at it can take layers of natural nail with it.
How long do Gel-X nails last?
A Gel-X set usually lasts 2–3 weeks before you're ready for a fresh one. I recommend coming back in that window so I can rebalance the apex and keep an eye on the health of your natural nails. How long yours lasts also depends on your hands and the work you do every day.
How much do Gel-X nails cost?
Gel-X at The Nail Edition starts at $65 for returning guests, with one solid color, and first-time sets start at $90. Nail art starts at $5 and depends on the design's complexity and products. Not sure what you want yet? Tell me when you book, and I'll walk you through the price first.
How long does a Gel-X appointment take?
A Gel-X appointment at The Nail Edition takes about two hours. Your first set takes 150 minutes, so we can talk through shape and length and I can fit every tip carefully. Nail art can add time too. New guests should book the first-time Gel-X appointment so we have that extra time.
Is Gel-X better than acrylic?
For most guests, Gel-X is a better fit than acrylic, which is why The Nail Edition offers it and doesn't do acrylic, hard gel or dip. Gel-X is thin and flexible, so it moves with your natural nail. I soak it off with acetone instead of heavy filing, and you can change your shape every set.
What's the difference between builder gel and Gel-X?
Builder gel adds strength to your own nail at its natural length, while Gel-X adds length with a soft gel extension tip. At The Nail Edition, I offer builder gel with manicures for stronger natural nails, and Gel-X for extra length or a new shape. Not sure which fits you? Ask me.
How are Gel-X nails removed?
Gel-X comes off with an acetone soak, not by prying or heavy filing. I lightly file the top layer, soak your nails until the gel softens, then gently lift it away from your natural nail. Please don't peel a set off at home. Book a soak-off, or a soak-off and fresh set, instead.
Can I wear Gel-X just for a special event?
Yes, Gel-X works well for a special event like a wedding, a girls trip or a big night out. Get your fancy nails for the event, then come back and I'll soak them off when it's over. Because the tips change every set, you can go extra short one time and extra long the next. Tell me the date.
How do I take care of my Gel-X nails between appointments?
To care for Gel-X nails between appointments, use cuticle oil every day, wear gloves for dishes and cleaning, and don't use your nails as tools. Don't pick, bite or peel at the edges. If a nail lifts, don't glue it; call us instead. I'll also send aftercare tips after your appointment.
More questions? Visit the FAQ or read about The Nail Edition.
Your first set
Book your first Gel-X set
If you’re curious, come in and we’ll figure out what fits you.