Nail 101.
You don't need to be an expert. That's our job. The internet has a lot of opinions about nails. Some are great. Some…not so much. We've performed thousands of manicures, tested countless products, refined our techniques, and spent years helping clients understand what actually works. This guide brings together everything we've learned so you can make informed decisions about your nails, whether you visit us or not.
Table of contents.
Start Here
Manicure Types
- Gel-X vs Acrylic NailsTwo ways to add length. Very different on your nails, your lungs, and your fills.→
- Gel-X vs Soft Gel Overlay: What's Actually Different (And Why It's Not What You Think)Length versus strength. The two soft gel options, side by side.→
- BIAB Nails Explained: What Is Builder in a Bottle?What BIAB actually is, how it differs from builder gel and soft gel overlay, and when to book it.→
What we can actually do.
all hand painted, all the time
Why clients choose 'Cure
Don't just take our word for it. Our clients consistently rate us 5 stars on Google for our welcoming atmosphere, attention to detail, and nails that last. We're proud to be a female and LGBTQ+ owned studio where everyone belongs.
Read our Google reviews →How are some of the ways you're safer and more sanitary than other salons?+
For starters, we will NEVER use tools on you that have been used on someone else. Ever. Yikes.
All single use items like files and buffers are either yours to keep or we work with SalonCycle to recycle them responsibly. We use a top of the line UV sanitizer and disinfect our workstations with bio friendly hospital grade disinfectant after each client.
Our water free approach to pedis also allows for a more sanitary environment. We don't have any in ground plumbing that can't be cleaned, your feet aren't exposed to waterborne bacteria, and there's no chance of having your feet in a basin that someone else had theirs in.
We have always received 100% on our state license inspections with 0 feedback and we're damn proud of that.
Why should I choose 'Cure?+
We're a 5-star rated, female and LGBTQ+ owned studio in East Austin, and our clients say the vibe is what keeps them coming back. Read our Google reviews to hear it in their own words. We built 'Cure on three things: real technical skill (no gatekeeping, no attitude), a space where every body and every gender feels welcome, and sustainability practices that actually matter, like water-free pedicures and SalonCycle recycling.
I've never done nail art. Where do I start?+
ask the chat concierge at the bottom of your screen which level your inspo photo is or add a level 1 nail art to any manicure service to start dabbling. It's fun, we swear.
How do I know which level of art to book?+
We have examples of different levels in our Instagram stories, or you can text us a photo at (512) 265-7879 and we'll tell you which level to snag!
How long does an art appointment take?+
A gel mani with simple art is ~90 min. Full custom art across all ten nails can be 2.5–3 hours. Grab a snack, we'll grab you a drink.
What lasts longer, regular gel or Gel-X?+
Both last 2–4 weeks. Gel-X gives you length; soft gel over your natural nail is lower-commitment and easier to fill.
Do I need to bring anything?+
For pedicures: your own sandals (foam flip-flops sit in landfills for decades). Otherwise, just inspo photos if you have them.
Can I bring my dog?+
Legit, no one wishes you could more than us, but it's against the law and health code so sadly, you cannot.
Are children welcome?+
We welcome nails of all ages, however we do ask that parents stay with their kids under the age of 18. We do not recommend gel, Gel-X, or soft gel services for children under 13.
Do you offer waxing?+
You don't want us to wax you, trust us. We don't, but we can refer you to tons of safe and amazing service professionals across the city for all kinds of other professional services!
Do you have any discounts?+
Any discounts or promos get announced on our Instagram page only, so guess you'll have to go follow us now won't cha?
What if I don't know what I want?+
Perfectly fine. Send a mood or vibe on Instagram (@curestudios) and we'll suggest a service and artist to match.