Levelling is needed when the nail surface is uneven: ridges, bumps or marks from old gel. The technician builds a thin base layer to flatten the surface, then cures it in a lamp. It adds about 10–15 minutes to a gel manicure and is included in the 230,000₫ price.
What levelling does
It fills the unevenness so the gel sits flat. Without it, gel follows the shape of the nail: you see waves in the light and the edges lift sooner. Levelling does not lengthen the nail or change its shape.
When it is worth it
- Visible ridges or bumps.
- Marks left by gel that was peeled off at home.
- Thin or flaking nails that dip in the middle.
- Chrome, cat eye or mirror finishes that need a flat surface.
| Situation | What we do |
|---|---|
| Even nail | Gel directly, no levelling |
| Ridges, bumps | 1–2 base layers + buff |
| After a bad removal | Surface restoration |
Levelling is not a separate line in the menu: it is part of the gel manicure when the technician sees that it is needed. If extra base is required, we quote the price from photos before your visit.
The technician looks at the nail from the side and under a lamp, where dips are easiest to see. A small dip needs one thin layer; a thin nail may need a slightly thicker one.
After curing, the surface is lightly buffed so the gel sits flat and does not pool at the cuticle. That pooling is the usual reason gel lifts at the edge.
You do not need levelling every time. If the nail is even and the gel holds, standard preparation is enough.
FAQ
Does levelling make nails thicker?
A little, by the thickness of the base layer — usually 0.3–0.5 mm.
How long does it last?
As long as the gel: 2–3 weeks on hands, 4–6 weeks on feet.
Is it the same as extensions?
No. Extensions add length; levelling only flattens the surface.
Can I have it without gel?
You can, but it makes little sense: levelling exists to give the gel a flat base.
Our salon
LENA Nails & Beauty has three salons in Da Nang. The technician checks your nail surface before starting.
Gel manicure is 230,000₫ (~$9). No deposit; pay after the service.
Prices from the 01.11.2026 menu. Photos are our own work.
Send a photo of your nails
We will tell you if levelling is needed and how much time to allow.
Sources and checks
- Technique and timing from salon practice, 02.11.2026.
- Prices: 01.11.2026 menu.