What is the typical time frame for a gel manicure?

A gel manicure generally takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. This time frame includes several steps: preparing the natural nail, applying a base coat, curing the gel polish under a UV or LED light, applying additional coats of color, and finishing with a topcoat, which also requires curing.

The gel polish must be cured properly to ensure a long-lasting finish, which is a key characteristic of gel manicures. This curing process adds to the overall time needed compared to regular nail polish. Additionally, the technician may spend extra time on nail prep and ensuring that each layer is properly cured, which contributes to achieving a durable and glossy appearance.

The other options either underestimate or overestimate the duration for a typical gel manicure, which is why they do not align with the standard timeframe expected in a nail salon setting.