Dual Forms Nail Extensions: Price, Shapes and Differences
By HER Beauty
Dual Forms is a nail extension method where the gel is built inside a reusable form, which is then placed over your own nail and cured. The result is gel nails with the same shape and curve on all ten fingers. At our salon a new set of Dual Forms costs 977 DKK (90 min), and a refill costs 770 DKK (75 min).
What are Dual Forms and how do they work?
A Dual Form is a small, clear mould that already has the shape of a finished nail. Instead of building the extension on top of the nail, we fill the form with gel and press it, gel side down, over your natural nail.
Once the gel is cured, we remove the form. What is left is an extension where the curve and thickness come from the form. Then we refine the length and shape so the nails suit you.
Preparing your own nails works the same way as for any gel nails. The nails need to be clean and dry before any product goes on, or the extension will not last.
How are Dual Forms different from paper forms or tips?
There are three common ways to do a nail extension. The difference is in how the length is built.
- Paper forms (sculpting): A form sits under the tip of the nail and the gel is built freehand on top. It gives a lot of freedom, but the curve depends entirely on the work on each individual nail.
- Tips: A ready-made plastic tip is glued to the edge of the nail and covered with gel. It is a quick way to add length, but there is a join between tip and nail that has to be filed smooth.
- Dual Forms: The form gives both the top surface and the curve in one step. That makes it easier to get ten nails that match, with a thin, clean tip.
At our salon, our standard gel extensions (Gel Extension, 939 DKK, 90 min) and Dual Forms (977 DKK, 90 min) are two separate treatments. Both take about the same time in the chair, so the choice is about the result, not the time. If you are unsure, you can compare both on our services and prices page.
Which nail shape should you choose?
The shape of your nails matters more than you might think. It changes how your fingers look and how practical the nails are day to day. These are the shapes we get asked about most.
Almond
Almond nails taper towards a soft, rounded point. They make fingers look longer and are a safe choice if you want something elegant that is not too sharp.
Square
Square nails have straight sides and a straight edge. The shape is classic and works well on short nails, but the corners can catch on clothes and bags when the nails are long. That is why many people choose a "squoval", with slightly rounded corners.
Coffin (ballerina)
Coffin is wide at the base, tapers in and ends in a straight, flat tip. It needs some length to look right and gives a modern, bold look.
Oval
Oval is the softest shape and follows the natural curve of the nail. It is easy to live with if you use your hands a lot, and it looks calm and neat at any length.
Think about your daily life when you choose. If you type a lot or work with your hands, a shorter oval or almond is often more practical than a long coffin. Tell us what you have in mind when you arrive, and we will find a shape and length that fits.
Who are Dual Forms for?
Dual Forms are a good choice if you want extensions that look the same on every nail, and if you like a thin, smooth tip. The method also suits you if you have tried gel nails before and felt they were too thick.
If you have very short nails, or nails that curve up or down, the form can help create an even line. On the other hand, gel reinforcement on your own nails (674 DKK, 60 min) may suit you better if you simply want strong nails without extra length.
If you have reacted to gel or other nail products before, read our guide to nail allergies before you book, and let us know at your appointment.
How do you keep Dual Forms looking good?
Dual Forms grow out just like other gel nails. When a visible gap appears near the cuticle, it is time for a refill. You can read more about when a refill makes more sense than a new set in our guide to refill or new set.
Do not use your nails as tools, and do not pick them off. That can pull layers of your own nail away with them. When you want them off, book a professional gel removal so your nail is spared as much as possible.
Look after the skin around the nail too. The American Academy of Dermatology advises not trimming your cuticles, because they protect against infection, and giving your nails breaks now and then so they can recover. Daily cuticle oil and hand cream keep the cuticles soft while you wear extensions.
Ready to try Dual Forms?
Dual Forms give you gel nails with an even, clean shape and a thin tip, in the shape that suits your hands. We are happy to help you choose between Dual Forms, standard nail extensions or reinforcement.
You will find our nail salon in Copenhagen V, close to Forum Metro, Monday to Friday from 8 to 17. Book your appointment online here, and we will see you in the salon.