Key takeaways
- At Institut V Esthétique, nail services are by appointment, with Andrea Vivanco, at 6532 Beaubien East in Montreal.
- UV gel polish is applied in thin layers, each cured under a lamp: it is more resistant than classic polish, but it depends on careful prep.
- For natural nails, the manicure starts at $30 (30 to 40 min); gel or acrylic nail extensions are priced on consultation.
- Pedicures: without polish $45, with long-wear gel polish $60, premium Jelly Spa $70. Manicure + pedicure duo $85 to $95. Soak off (removal): $15.
- The exact manicure price depends on the service you choose and is confirmed when you book.
Gel polish vs classic polish: what is the real difference?
Classic polish dries in the air and simply sits on the nail. It wears within days, especially at the tip. UV gel polish is a light-cured product: it is applied in thin layers, each polymerized under a UV lamp, which creates a hard, sealed surface.
In practice, gel resists knocks, water and daily use far better, and keeps its shine much longer. The trade-off is removal: gel does not come off with regular polish remover. It needs a soak off, at the salon.
What nail services does Institut V offer?
Nail services are handled by Andrea Vivanco, our certified nail technician and nail care specialist, at our salon on 6532 Beaubien East in Montreal:
- manicure: shaping, cuticle work, hydration and finishing;
- UV gel polish: thin layers cured under the lamp, more resistant than classic polish;
- pedicure: without polish, with long-wear gel polish, or in the premium Jelly Spa version;
- soak off: clean removal of gel polish, without ripping or damaging the nail plate;
- nail art: from a discreet accent to a more detailed design.
What happens at a nail appointment?
- Welcome and service choice. We confirm the service, the price and the timing with you before starting.
- Preparation. Shaping, cuticle work and degreasing the nail plate. This step is what makes the set last.
- Application. Primer prepares the surface, then the gel goes on in thin layers, each cured under the lamp.
- Finishing. Sealing, cleaning residue and hydrating the skin around the nail.
- Aftercare advice. We explain how to keep the set looking good as long as possible.
How much do a manicure and a pedicure cost at Institut V?
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Manicure, natural nails | From $30 (30-40 min) |
| Gel or acrylic nail extensions | On consultation |
| Pedicure without polish | $45 |
| Pedicure with long-wear gel polish | $60 |
| Premium Jelly Spa pedicure | $70 |
| Manicure + pedicure duo | $85 to $95 |
| Soak off (removal) | $15 |
| Nail art | Priced by design complexity |
The exact manicure price depends on the service you choose (classic or gel polish, shape, length, nail art). Rather than quoting you a vague number, we confirm the exact price when you book: call us at (438) 900-0919, or describe what you want when you book online.
Does gel polish damage your nails?
The gel itself does not damage the nail plate. Forcing it off does: peeling or biting the gel takes superficial layers with it, leaving the nail thin and brittle. A soak off done at the salon dissolves the product without pulling.
The second cause is technique. Rushed prep or layers that are too thick cause lifting, and lifting is what weakens the nail over time. That is why prep takes real time with us instead of being rushed.
How do you remove gel polish, and why have it done at the salon?
Removal is a soak off: we file the top layer, let the product break down, then remove the gel without force. At home the usual reflex is to pick or pull, which is exactly what causes damage. If you already have a set, mention it when booking so it fits into your appointment time.
Why choose Institut V for your nails in Montreal?
Our salon is at 6532 Beaubien East, in Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, minutes from Rosemont and Saint-Michel. Nail services are done by our certified esthetics specialist in Montreal, Andrea Vivanco, with professional products.
Our instruments are sterilized to the strictest standards between every client. An appointment lasts as long as proper preparation takes, because that is what decides how the set holds up.
Ready for a set that lasts? See our nail services or call us at (438) 900-0919.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an appointment for nails?
Yes. Nail services are by appointment with Andrea Vivanco, online or by phone at (438) 900-0919. Booking lets us plan enough time for prep, a soak off if needed, and the application.
How long does a nail appointment take?
It depends on the service: gel polish, a pedicure or a manicure-pedicure duo are not the same length. We confirm the time when you book, and we keep to it.
Can I get a manicure with classic polish instead of gel?
Yes. Classic polish is a good option if you prefer removal with regular remover, or if you change colours often. Tell us what you prefer when booking and we adapt.
Do I need a soak off if I already have a set on?
Yes. The previous set has to come off before a new one goes on: mention it when booking so we allow the time.
Do you do nail art?
Yes, from subtle to elaborate. The price depends on the complexity of the design: show us your inspiration and we confirm the price before starting.
In short
UV gel polish delivers on its promise under one condition: careful prep and proper removal. At Institut V Esthétique on Beaubien, nails are done by appointment with Andrea Vivanco, and the nail plate is prepared properly before anything is applied.
Book your free consultation at Institut V Esthétique or call (438) 900-0919.
