LAVISH SOHO NAILS AND SPA: Salon Policy & Luxury Care Standards (FAQs)

As the premier nail salon in Soho, London, we are committed to absolute transparency regarding our hygiene practices, products, and services. Here are detailed answers to the most common questions we receive:

Hygiene, Sterilization, and Safety

Question	Lavish Soho's Commitment
Q: What is the procedure for sterilizing metal tools (e.g., autoclave, specialized chemical solution), and are single-use tools utilized?	A: All metal tools are thoroughly cleaned and then sterilized in a Hospital-Grade UV-C Sanitizer or Autoclave between every client. Files and buffers are strictly single-use or client-specific. We never reuse non-metal abrasives.
Q: Are the pedicure chairs/tubs lined with single-use disposable liners for each client to ensure hygiene?	A: Absolutely. As a luxury nail salon, we use sealed, single-use disposable liners in our pedicure tubs for every client to eliminate any risk of cross-contamination.
Q: If the nail shows signs of infection or mold, what is the salon's procedure or recommendation for the client?	A: We will not perform any service on a nail showing signs of infection or mold. We must prioritize your health and will refer you to a GP or pharmacist for treatment before we can work on your nails again.

Product Quality and Guarantees

Question	Lavish Soho's Commitment
Q: What primary brands of nail polish, gel, and BIAB does the nail salon use? Do you have certification for product sourcing?	A: We primarily use The Gel Bottle (for BIAB), CND Shellac, and OPI for traditional polish. Yes, we source directly from authorized UK distributors and can provide batch documentation if required for peace of mind.
Q: Does the nail salon offer a warranty or free repair policy if the nails chip, lift, or break within a certain number of days after the service?	A: Yes, we offer a 7-day guarantee on all gel and BIAB services. If a nail chips, lifts, or breaks within that time due to product fault, we'll fix it free of charge.

Application Techniques and Durability

Question	Lavish Soho's Commitment
Q: Are the cuticle trimming and cleaning techniques performed manually or with an e-file? Are your technicians specially trained?	A: We use a combination of gentle manual nipping and E-File techniques for precision and a clean finish. All our technicians are NVQ Level 3 certified and specialize in Russian Manicure techniques, ensuring minimal skin trauma.
Q: What is the fundamental difference between standard Gel Polish and BIAB, and which is better suited for weak nails?	A: Gel Polish is colour only, applied thinly for aesthetic purposes. BIAB (Builder in a Bottle) is a thicker, structured gel base designed to add strength, flexibility, and structure to the natural nail. BIAB is far better suited for weak, brittle, or naturally thin nails.
Q: For Gel/BIAB application, how much filing (buffing) is required on the natural nail surface? Will this cause long-term thinning?	A: Minimal buffing is required—just enough to remove the natural shine. We use a fine-grit buffer (220/240 grit) and never thin the nail plate. Damage typically only occurs from incorrect removal, not proper application.
Q: How does the nail salon remove Gel/BIAB (by soaking in acetone or electric filing)? Which method is used to minimize damage?	A: We use the E-File to gently remove 80% of the product, then soak the remaining thin layer in acetone for a short time. This hybrid approach is the safest, as it minimizes both prolonged exposure to acetone and aggressive filing.
Q: If I want nail extensions, does the nail salon use hard gel, dip powder (SNS), or Acrylic, and what are the pros and cons of each?	A: We specialize in Hard Gel and Acrylic. Hard Gel is flexible and non-porous (less odour) but requires filing for removal. Acrylic is very durable and great for length but has a stronger odour during application. We do not offer SNS (Dip Powder) due to hygiene concerns with dipping.
Q: What is the average expected durability of the BIAB/nail extension service before a fill or reapplication is needed?	A: For BIAB, we recommend a fill or reapplication every 3–4 weeks to maintain strength and structural balance as the nail grows out. Extensions are similar, generally lasting 3–5 weeks.
Q: What is the optimal timeframe to return for a reapplication or a fill to ensure the health of the natural nail underneath?	A: The optimal time is 3 weeks. Waiting too long (past 4 weeks) shifts the weight distribution on the nail, increasing the risk of breakage or lifting, which can damage the nail bed.

Luxury Experience and Customization

Question	Lavish Soho's Commitment
Q: Does the basic manicure and pedicure service include a hand/foot massage and exfoliation, or are these supplementary services?	A: Our Signature Manicure and Pedicure services include both a luxurious massage and a gentle exfoliation treatment. We do offer express options, but our full service includes the pampering extras.
Q: Does the nail salon accept custom designs brought in by the client? If so, does the price change based on the design's complexity?	A: Yes, absolutely! We encourage clients to bring in inspiration photos. The final price is determined by the complexity level required to replicate the design, as outlined in our pricing tiers.
Q: Does the nail salon offer special decorations or effects, such as Swarovski crystal application, complex hand-painted art, or Chrome/Cat-eye finishes?	A: Yes, we offer a full range of enhancements, including genuine Swarovski crystals, specialized Chrome and magnetic Cat-Eye powders, and intricate free-hand art.
Q: If my nails are weak or damaged after gel removal, does the nail salon offer any deep restorative treatments?	A: Yes. We offer a Kérastase K-Repair Treatment that infuses keratin protein into the nail plate and a Deluxe Paraffin Wax Dip to hydrate and soothe the cuticles and skin.
Q: Can the technician recommend the best cuticle oil or nail strengthener for me to use at home?	A: Of course. We stock and recommend SolarOil (by CND) for daily cuticle and nail hydration, and we can advise on a professional strengthener like OPI Nail Envy if you're taking a break from polish.
Q: Will the technician provide detailed instructions on how to care for the nails during the first 24–48 hours after the service is complete?	A: Yes, you will receive verbal and a printed aftercare sheet. The main rule is to avoid excessive heat (saunas, long baths) and heavy chemical use for the first 24 hours.

Book Your Luxury Appointment at our Soho Nail Salon

We look forward to welcoming you to the highest standard of nail and beauty care in Central London.

📍 Find us at: 22 D'Arblay St, London W1F 8EQ 📞 Call to book your luxury appointment: 020 7734 1788

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