I've been to see Sam at Nailbox twice now and I'm so happy I found her. I get the builder gel manicure and pedi, and they last. Like, really last. I moved to Hayward recently and had been bouncing around trying to find a new nail spot--came across Sam's page because I was curious about Russian manicures and she does them beautifully. Just a heads up on the booking process: the site directs you to request an appointment, but it's not auto-confirmed--Sam has to accept it manually. For my first appointment, I booked for the next day and wasn't sure if it was going through, so now I just DM her directly to check in. Super easy once you know the flow. Sam herself is super sweet and easy to talk to. She recently went solo with her business, so it's just her now--and honestly, I love that. It's chill, one-on-one, and you can tell she really cares about quality. She has a gorgeous selection of colors and uses high-end products, which I think is why everything lasts so long. The first time I went, my nails were in sad shape and I honestly didn't think they'd bounce back. A month later? I've got legit nails I'm proud to show off. If you're looking for a new nail tech who's talented, kind, and really knows her stuff, definitely give Sam a try. I've already planned my next visit. read more

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I had gone four weeks before my fill on my gel builder nails, and my thumbnail broke in half and was barely hanging on. I was really worried about it tearing off and I was nervous to go to anyone to have it repaired. Sam was SUPER gentle and caring. I had given up and was resigned to having half a nail for a few months but Sam was able to fix it for me! I attached photos of my broken nail that needed repair, how it looked after Sam fixed it before polish (you can't even see the crack!) and the final set once Sam was done. I am so grateful and will definitely be coming back. Thank you so much!! read more

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I'm so glad I found a manicurist near me that can do a Russian Manicure! I'm obsessed with my nails! She's great conversation and puts so much effort into the final product. Can't wait to come back read more

NailBox Studios - Pink French on pink base - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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Shoutout to Sam! I had the pleasure of meeting Sam at the WorkinChix event in August, and let me tell you--what a vibe! We chatted, laughed, and I walked away with a stunning permanent anklet and the most flawless Russian manicure. Four weeks later, I'm back for another mani-pedi, and Sam is even fixing my bracelet. She's not just talented--she's warm, easy to talk to, and makes every appointment feel like a hangout with a friend. If you haven't booked with Sam yet, you're missing out! #BeautyVibes #RussianManicure #PermanentJewelry #SamIsTheVibe read more

NailBox Studios - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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Sam is amazing! I was able to easily book an appointment and she did not disappoint. I showed her pictures, and she most definitely delivered! She made sure to check in with me throughout my appointment to make sure my nails were the length and shape I wanted. She took her time and was attentive to the fine details that are often ignored or overlooked. I will continue to book my gel x with her. See for yourself. read more

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Another amazing appointment with Samantha! Very amazed at how long my last set held. I had no chipping, no lifting, nothing. I am very rough with my hands due to my profession and I couldn't be happier I found a nail tech that uses amazing products and provides top notch service. Samantha is extremely detail oriented. My cuticles look the best they've ever looked, the nail shape is on point and just how I like it. Also, there's a huge selection of polish colors and shades and I couldn't be happier with this beautiful iridescent clear pink that I picked out this time. Very unique selection and I love it. Highly recommend coming here and getting your nails perfected by Samantha, she's truly the best. **last photo is from first appointment/ first review. First two photos from this last appointment in different lighting ( natural lighting and inside lighting). read more

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It's been a year since I first started manis with Samantha at Nailbox Studios! Sam always knows exactly the look I want and my nails are always perfect. I receive many compliments. The quality and expertise is top notch and Sam is up on the latest trends and quality products! She's also a cool girl to spend a couple of hours with every other week. The salon is posh and cute in the heart of Castro Valley. I look forward to our chat sesh read more

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I've been a regular here, where Sam has consistently impressed me with her nail artistry. Her use of builder gel is exceptional, and my nails stay flawless for over four weeks without any issues. Recently, I got my nails done while traveling abroad, and one of them cracked at the nail bed. Sam repaired it with a gentle touch, applying a Gel-X extension to protect my natural nail as it grew out. The process was seamless and pain free. I highly recommend her skilled work! read more

NailBox Studios - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Best pedicure I've ever had and her color selection is amazing. Samantha is so nice and her work is incredible. The pedicure was done in a very clean way and the shaping of the nails was perfect. Highly recommend! read more

Samantha of Nailbox Studios always pay attention to detail and gives your nails so much care. I really appreciate the time she gives to her service and work. When you come to Castro Valley, give yourself time to get your nails done.. the end result is fabulous nails for weeks. Her studio is cute and intimate which allows her to give the attention and detail to her work and end result having fabulous nails. If you're in the San Leandro, Hayward and Castro Valley area, you have a gem with Nailbox Studios read more

NailBox Studios - Love pink! Samantha knows this and recommends the best colors for me. She also has a great selection of colors to choose from - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Went to NailBox Studios for a Russian Gel Manicure. Sam did an amazing manicure. Best I've ever had. I have thick cuticles and lots of hang nails. Other salons just didn't do the trick. Her products are high quality. I will continue to go back read more

NailBox Studios - Russian Gel Nails - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

I been going there for about a year and a half when this salon used to be in Fremont but the last visit was early 2024 the work was done good until when it comes to change the owner took a little more change than she should. I was going tip her $10 bucks instead she took the whole $20 bill and left me with no change. I was gonna tell her then but she was such in a "hurry" a went ahead brought her client in. That's a dealbreaker for me. I don't appreciate nail technicians taking more change than what they should so I'll find elsewhere plus I really miss the other lady who used to do my nails but unfortunately, she's no longer working there. read more

Quality is truly key at Nailbox! Samantha always does an amazing job and offers quality nails with great service and overall just cares about your nail health in general. The products she uses are top tier and I believe that's why her sets last soo long and come out beautifully! I started out with getting gelx nails but with the time and care she took, just after a couple sets I was able to have grown my natural nails to an unbelievable length and started getting builder gel. Let me telll you, builder gel is where it's at!! Since coming to see Samantha my nail health has improved so much and growth is easily achievable. I still can't believe after years of acrylics my nail health is at its peak but all thanks to Samantha at Nailbox!! read more

After a disastrous experience in Vegas, I went to Nailbox to remove my current gel-X set and opted to just get regular gel. Samantha called to let me know that she was running behind and I somehow ended up with Lavie?? Sorry Samantha! Lavie was very sweet and even offered to re-do my gel-x, so I thought why not? I've spent so much money already? Why not just get what I really wanted in the first place? I'm glad I did because she did such an an amazing job!! I appreciate she also took her time and gave me what I asked for. Scheduling is super easy, all appointments can be made on Vagaro. I'll definitely come back and maybe get a design! read more

NailBox Studios - So pretty! - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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This review is for Lavie. I've gone to her for a gel x mani and gel pedi several times now Lavie is an absolute pro when it comes to nails. She took the time to listen to exactly what I wanted, and then went above and beyond to make sure my nails looked perfect. Her attention to detail was truly impressive, and I could tell that she takes great pride in her work. I have never been disappointed in a set she has done for me. They all last a very long time and no lift! I can't recommend her enough read more

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Got my nails done here for a first time. It is pricey but i worth the money. I think Hein did my nails, she did so amazing! She was also very sweet and accommodating. I had a broken nail and she was able to extend it with "dream gel". It's pretty comfortable and not as think as dip or acrylic. Will definitely be going back :) read more

NailBox Studios - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

I recently had the pleasure of getting my nails done by Samantha at NailBox, and I wanted to share my experience with you. Not only is Samantha an incredibly talented nail technician, but she's also a delight to chat with during the appointment. She's a hardworking mama who puts her heart and soul into her work, and it truly shows in the results. During my visit, she introduced me to builder gel, a game-changer for nail overlays. It's softer than traditional gel polish but provides a stronger and healthier overlay for my natural nails. Samantha's skills, friendly demeanor, and dedication to her craft make her the go-to nail technician in town. If you're looking for beautiful nails and a wonderful conversation, I highly recommend booking an appointment with Samantha at NailBox. She is right next to the CV movie theater.You won't be disappointed! read more

NailBox Studios - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

This review is for Lavie! I booked a last minute appointment day of and she literally did my nails until like 8:30pm that day well after hours. I have some damage on my thumbs due to picking at my cuticles and she made recommendations on how I can get them more even with dream gel moving forward, but because I was getting ready to go on vacation, we proceeded with Gel X. I chose a medium length coffin shape and decided to get French fade based on one of her pictures I saw on her Instagram. Absolutely phenomenal job and she does a great job cleaning up the cuticles. My thumbs also look SOO amazing and really natural. She really took her time and made sure they were picture perfect. She is definitely my go-to for Gel X and any future bookings. The salon is also super clean and because they do a lot of gel it doesn't have that typical acrylic odor that most salons usually have. Absolutely love my nails and the entire experience! Will be returning for sure! read more

NailBox Studios - French Fade Gel X by Lavie - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Shoutout to Sam on doing my nails! Was pricey but worth the $$$. I asked for Hailey Bieber nails and she delivered Also, my prior nails were acrylic nails done from another nail salon and was given the worst "ombre" nails. She advises me that they only do gel x nails with organic products that are less toxic and that they do NOT do acrylics as it is more harmful and can further ruin the nail bed. If ya'll need to treat yourself and self-care, highly recommend this place!! read more

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Samantha (Sam) is an incredibly skilled tech with the best attention to the fine details. I have been coming to her for almost 4 months now and she has helped me not only grow out my natural nails from shattered stubs to an elegant length, but educated me in keeping my hands and nails healthy. I appreciate her dedication to the craft more with each visit! read more

NailBox Studios - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

I normally would get acrylic nails but it would leave my nails weak and broken. Samantha explained the benefits of a builder gel manicure and I was instantly sold. I love how natural my nails feel and I'm looking forward to my nail growth journey. read more

NailBox Studios - Builder gel manicure. - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

I called for a last minute appointment a couple hours after I called. Unfortunately time wasn't on my side and I had to push back the appointment which I appreciate their accommodation. Sam helped me do a gelX manicure. She was so detailed and precise and made sure to take extra care around one of my nails which cracked. Took longer than I'm used to, but appreciate the attention to detail! Someone else helped me with the design which I LOVED! The only reason why it's 4/5 stars because they used more gel extend (glue) than I'm used to and the extension lay thicker than I prefer. Also, this is the first time I've done a gelX manicure that had water seep slightly into the outer corners of my nails. The person doing my fill at a different salon made a comment about the water and the thickness. So I thought I'd pass it along. All in all, I'd come back! Sam even said she'd talk to me next time about doing things for the health of my nails (as I was very set on getting gelX). Bummer there weren't any massage chairs but Sam mentioned they had vegan nail polish which is pretty cool! read more

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Came here originally to get my acrylics removed (applied at another salon). Since my nails were so short afterward, Sam suggested builder gel to help grow my nails back out. I've been back twice, and I really appreciate Sam's attention to detail and precision. I didn't experience any lifting after 3 weeks and probably could have waited another 2 weeks to get a fill. read more

NailBox Studios - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Well... I'm glad I just did the pedicure... No warm bubbles under my feet, no massage chairs??? Where am I? Is it not 2022??? I'm sure it's saving on water... but it explains why this place isn't busy??? If I didn't have to put down most of my deposit, I would have went somewhere else. I work hard for my Money; I figured I'd give it a try... The massage she gave me was trash. I was looking forward to a relaxing pedicure, instead I got my feet washed like I was Jesus; except she didn't dry my feet with her hair. If you're looking for dope nails and a fantastic pedicure go to Queens in San Jose/Milpitas... Why did I spend $70 on a crappy pedicure?? I still tipped her... read more

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I really enjoyed my experience at Nailbox Studios. Sam does a great job and I'll definitely be coming back. read more

NailBox Studios - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

This is a long overdue review! I have been seeing Sam regularly as I am a recent March 2025 bride. I usually don't get my nails done regularly but figured this was the time to do it as I had so many events (engagement photos, bachelorette, bridal shower, etc.) that I needed my nails to look good for. My nails have never looked better! Every time I got a new builder gel set, I would get a ton of compliments! People wouldn't believe these were my real nails! To add, my nails would never chip or lift in between appointments. Sam is so meticulous and detailed when it comes to shaping, filing, buffing and adding the builder gel and color. Her color selection is great if you're into neutrals. If you're looking to invest in some TLC for your nails, Sam is your girl! read more

This is my third time here! I come from Sacramento, Sam is the best! I'm a big baby but she always making sure I'm comfortable and it's a pain free experience She takes her time and makes sure she gets everything . I recommend her! read more

NailBox Studios - Here's my arm after, no bumps or anything from irritation - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

As promised , I went back to the salon and my experience was 100 % better . This time I specifically asked for Christine to do my nails as suggested. My nails are growing beautifully and naturally again . The only thing is timing - I noticed if I make my appointments earlier in the day I get a better experience because no one is rushing and I feel so pampered! Besides that the location can be hectic but that has nothing to do with the business. I am very happy with Christine, she truly takes care of her clients . Hint : her favorite drink is caramel macchiato read more

NailBox Studios - Nails done by Christine - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Nailbox Studios is one of the best nail stores in Fremont. Very knowledgeable in the field and inspired by the philosophy of healthy artificial nails. I love the amazing vibe here, it's amazing to see the quality of the nail polishes here with a wide range of colors and collections. If anyone is looking for the best nail store in town, please visit this store :)! read more

It was my first time coming to Nailbox Studios! Sam is so sweet, nice, detail oriented, and attentive when doing my nails. It was my first time trying out builder gel after doing years of dip powder. I definitely recommend for anyone who lives in the Bay Area and wants to try out builder gel or looking for a new place for nails. I can't wait to come back! read more

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Lavie is the best! So personable and detail oriented :) She does a great job with nail designs and helped make my nails healthier and stronger. I trust her with my nails every time and even had her do my wedding nails, which I loved!! Whenever I get my nails done by Lavie, I get many compliments and they last for over 4 weeks :) Would highly recommend! read more

NailBox Studios - My Wedding Nails :) - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Always a good time here. Staff is lovely and lively. Absolutely love how much care is provided every appointment. read more

NailBox Studios - Short, sweet, and simple. - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Really loved my experience at Nailbox. -The staff was quite accommodating and when I needed my nails looked at after a week (or fixed/replaced), their 100% guarantee to fix/replace was honored. -The Gelx does stay on pretty well. -Super accommodating when I had to bring my 21month old daughter at the end of the night who sat quietly (thankfully). -Another time I wanted to get both a mani and pedi and couldn't find the right slot for it on the booking app so I called and was accommodated. I always look for great customer service and great work too! -My gel pedi is still good after a little over 3 weeks! read more

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I've been trying to come here for awhile and I finally decided to make an appointment last minutes. Samantha did an amazing job and I can't stop looking at the color and shape. It's hard to find nail techs that actually listen to your wants and then not feel rushed. Definitely planning to come back again because I love the dream gel which is stronger than regular gel. read more

I received Gel X nail extensions before and they were a hot mess and they were not nearly as strong as these ones so I'm assuming that the last salon I went to maybe bought there stuff on Amazon. I was skeptical about getting them again but after the reviews I thought what's the worst that happen? I'm glad I came in because I've received some of the cutest and cleanest nails i've ever received! This is a small little studio upstairs from the tattoo shop on Fremont Blvd, it's cute and clean and they offer quite a few services considering their size. My nail artist was very gentle and paid special attention to my cuticles and application of the full cover extensions as well as the gel color, this was also the lady that waxed my legs. They had another lady paint on the designs that I wanted and then I was finished off by my original artist to crisp up my shaping. They played good music and it would've been nice quiet and quaint if it weren't for the construction going on inside of the building but that wasn't their fault. I'll be back soon and I'll tell my friends/coworkers, thank you ladies! read more

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Me and my daughter got a pedicure from Samantha. She was sweet and we had lovely conversation. We love how our nails turned out, 10/10 recommend! read more

I haven't gotten my nails done in over a year due to the pandemic and finally decided it was time to pamper myself. I found this small but quaint nail salon near my sister's house and I'm so happy that I did! I usually get gel manicures but always wanted to have long nails. I was never able to do acrylics because of how damaging they are to my nails but the staff here introduced me to Gel X. AND LET ME TELL YOU IT IS A GAME CHANGER. It's basically a less damaging alternative to acrylics that don't require you to shave your nail off during removal. I am amazed at how light and natural they feel and love it! I was originally planning on doing a design, but after consulting with my technician we decided to go with something simple instead. I appreciated their honesty when it came to whether or not they could pull of certain designs. As for the staff, they were professional, kind, and I got sense of familial comfort when I was there. The shop itself is small but I don't mind because it's appointment based and most of the time you are there with maybe one or two additional people. Great for covid times! They have you complete Covid waiver forms, wash your hands before entering, and all equipment is disinfected and sanitized in sealed bags. Thanks, Nailbox team! I'll definitely be returning agai read more

NailBox Studios - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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Worst manicure ever. This is not a fake nail that came off!!! This is dip powder manicure that LITERALLY pealed off from my real nail in one week. Highly disappointed. I do not recommend getting your nails fone from them. The dip powder manicure was Highly priced too, I did not pay that much money to get a poor quality manicure. read more

NailBox Studios - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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I selfishly don't want this place to blow up, but truthfully know it will. This salon is such a GEM! Nothing like it around. It's so cute inside. When I say STYLE, QUALITY, DETAIL ORIENTED, and best of all they actually CARE about the health of your nails!!! I came back after 3 weeks of dream gel (which I have never heard of before) and they were still in great shape. This type of gel is not only longer lasting but better for your nails! The team is younger and in touch with todays trends. It's 1000% worth the price. Quality over quantity. read more

NailBox Studios - Dream gel nails - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

This review is LONG overdue, but I cannot recommend NailBox Studios enough. They're extremely talented, and truly care about the health of your nails. They make amazing suggestions based on what you're looking for and the best options based on your preferences. They have top tier products and are so friendly and accommodating! I have thin, brittle nails that I've bitten my whole life, and with Lavie's help they've been completely transformed and and getting long (pics are after I got them cut down, I prefer short nails) and healthy! All their services are thorough and they pay attention to detail, and make sure you're happy with your nails throughout the service and at the end! Not to mention, everyone who works there is SO nice! 10/10 recommend! I get the dream gel, it's amazing! read more

NailBox Studios - Hair Removal Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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