Gel overlay nails

A structured gel overlay on your natural nails for strength, shape and a glossy finish, kept fresh with fill-ins every 3 to 4 weeks.

Book Gel Overlay Member pricing

Available at Wicker Park, West Loop and South Loop.

Real Saltmara photo required

Photo: Gel overlay, finished hand

Price

$120

or 2 member credits

Time

105 min

new set or fill in

Lasts

3 to 4 weeks

with regular fill ins

Removal

$20

hard gel, 15 min, free for members

The service

What is a gel overlay?

A gel overlay is a layer of soft structured gel, sometimes called builder gel, brushed over your own nails. It adds strength and a smooth, even shape without extensions.

Every visit includes an electric file manicure and detailed cuticle work, finished in your choice of CND Shellac or OPI gel color.

When your nails grow out, book the same service for a fill in. We rebalance the overlay rather than starting over.

Who it's for

✓Thin, soft or peeling nails that break easily
✓Growing out your natural length
✓Wanting gel color that lasts longer than a regular gel manicure
✓Anyone moving away from acrylic or dip

Your visit

What to expect

Prep

Nails are shaped and cuticles cleaned with an electric file.

Build

Structured gel is layered and cured for strength and shape.

Color

Finished in CND Shellac or OPI gel color.

Care

Cuticle oil, hand cream and aftercare tips.

Our work

Real client photos only, with consent

Photo: Overlay close up, natural length

Photo: Before and after

Photo: Fill in in progress

Photo: Neutral overlay set

Photo: Overlay with nail art

Questions

Gel Overlay FAQ

Keep your overlay fresh with fill-ins every 3 to 4 weeks. We rebalance your Saltmara overlay as your natural nails grow.

With the right application, removal and care, a gel overlay can support your natural nails. Use cuticle oil daily, wear gloves for cleaning, never peel or pick, keep up with fill-ins every 3 to 4 weeks, and always come to us for removal.

Book gel overlay removal: $20, about 15 minutes, and free for members. Keeping your overlay? Book a fill-in instead.

We can only fill in overlays applied at Saltmara. If yours was done elsewhere, add a Hard Gel Removal ($20, 15 minutes) and we will start fresh.

A gel manicure includes trimming, shaping and buffing your nails, pushing back and trimming cuticles, and carefully applying your choice of gel polish, cured under an LED light. A gel overlay adds a layer of structured gel for extra strength and support for your natural nails, and it is kept fresh with fill-ins every 3 to 4 weeks.

Still have questions? Visit the full FAQ · Call 773 770 6976

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