In the beauty industry, artificial nails have become a mainstay since they provide a rapid and efficient means of improving the look of natural nails. These improvements provide both visual appeal and practical advantages, meeting a wide range of preferences, requirements and lifestyles.
As artificial nails, also known as (fake nails, nail extensions, nail enhancement or acrylic nails) have developed throughout time, many choices have emerged, each with special qualities and ways to apply them. The choices for these nails are vast and cater to every preference.
Artificial nails have transformed personal grooming and are now a necessary component of contemporary cosmetic regimens. For people who want to give their natural nails more length, strength or artistic flair, these enhancements provide a flexible option.
Beyond the basic varieties, more sophisticated choices like Polygel offer flexibility and strength by fusing the finest aspects of gel and acrylic technology. Conventional techniques like silk and fiberglass wraps still offer options for people looking for a natural-looking nail restoration.
The world of artificial nails now grows rapidly, offering nail fans fresh expressions and cutting-edge solutions as new trends and techniques appear. Its greatest advantage is that it offers a versatile and adaptable way to preserve and enhance nail beauty, whether for special events or everyday wear.
Kinds of Artificial Nails
Due to the invention of artificial nails and how popular they have become, not just in society, but in the beauty and fashion industry as a whole. Various nail technicians and companies invent new artificial nails and new ways of using them.
In this guide, I would lead and educate you in the types of artificial nails that have been created over the years. From the most popular to the new prototypes of artificial nails. So let’s learn together. The types of artificial nails we have includes
1. Acrylic Nails
The most common kind of artificial nail is the acrylic one. Technicians combine two ingredients, polymer and monomer, to generate acrylic nails. They then use a specialized brush to apply the mixture to the natural nail surface. All that’s left to do is set your nails aside and wait for the acrylic to dry. You can form your artificial nails into any shape you choose this time.
Pros and cons of acrylic nails
Pros: Acrylic nails have a strong adhesive and are long-lasting. It’s really convenient and simple for nail artists to use. Another benefit that artificial nails may offer is their reasonable price. What could be more tempting than a reasonably priced, long-lasting nail enhancement?.
Cons: Acrylic nails are inconvenient in certain respects, though. Because they are heavier than other artificial nails, wearing them could be painful. In addition, artificial nails will smell when applied or removed since strong chemicals are used to make them.
2. Gel Nails
Gel nails are created in the same way as acrylic nails, but instead of using a polymer-monomer mixture to coat the nail surface and then allowing it to dry under UV light, gel builder is applied over the nail surface.
Pros and Cons of Gel Nails
Pros: Gel nails have a lighter weight and release little odor during application or removal when compared to acrylic nails.
Cons: Despite their obvious benefits, gel nails are more expensive and easily removed; in addition, they are less common in some parts of the country, making it occasionally difficult to get a gel nail service.
3. Warp Nails
Wrap nails, in contrast to earlier artificial nails, are composed of comparable materials like silk, fiber and linen. Many layers of silk, powder and glue are combined to produce wrap nails. After being cut into the necessary forms, linen, fiber or silk is adhered to the natural nail surface. The answer is to use wrap nails, which support the weak nail tips.
Pros and cons of Warp Nails
Pros: The earliest kind of artificial nail is the wrap nail, which is no longer widely accessible at nail salons. They release no chemical fumes or dust, making them light and safe for health.
Cons: Wrapped nails, however, may result in open pores, which creates a favorable environment for bacteria and other fungi.
4. Dip powder nails
Although it may sound like some sort of enchanted fairy dust, dip powder nails are a durable manicure choice that has gained appeal recently. With this method, the color is applied to your nail using a clear, liquid mixture that dries and secures the pigmented dust (or powder) rather than polish. This hardy combination makes this kind of manicure exceptionally long-lasting—up to four weeks.
Pros and cons of Dip powder nails
Pros: The dip powder manicure treatment is a good option if you’re looking for a quick manicure. Furthermore, it dries it without the use of UV (ultraviolet) light, which is also healthy (more on that in a sec). Particularly for those who work with their hands frequently, dip powder manicures might be a nice alternative because they are typically more durable and tougher and more bendable than other sorts.
Cons: Possibly unhygienic It’s unhygienic to dip your fingertips into the same powder container as everyone else. When it comes to this manicure, dermatologists advise against “double dipping” (yep, like at a party with chips and salsa). Make sure you request that the powder be applied to your nails by the experts.
Another disadvantage of this is that it could erode the foundation of your nails Indeed, the dip powder procedure is really difficult. But there might be a cost. This disadvantage is comparable to what occurs with an acrylic manicure (more on that subject later). Your nails may become weaker over time and more prone to breaking as a result of the rigorous buffing and filing required to ensure the glue sticks.
5. Polygel Nails
Polygel nail extensions are a nail enhancement that is more flexible and lightweight compared to acrylic but is harder than regular gel or Gel-X nails,” says Alcedo. “Polygel nails are great if you want long nails but have trouble growing your natural nails
Application
Following the standard manicure procedures (such as pulling back and scraping dead skin away from the cuticle), the nail technician will file the nail bed to eliminate any remaining oil.
Alcedo states that following the preliminary preparation, your artist will use a nail bed dehydrator to further eliminate any remaining moisture or oil before applying the polygel and putting on a nail primer. After the preparation is finished, a ball of polygel will be put with a spatula in the center of your nail. After that, your technician will get to work shaping the polygel ball into the desired length and form. To spread the gel, they will use a brush and isopropyl alcohol.
Your nail technician will use a mold to create the desired length and form if you want longer nails than what your natural length is. Alcedo says that your hand will be exposed to a UV light for 60 seconds to treat it. After that, in order to guarantee a soft and smooth finish, your technician will file away any sharp edges. Your nails can appear longer than when you first started, and the procedure is comparable to receiving a standard gel manicure.
Pros and cons of Polygel Nails
Pros: PolyGel nails are pliable and robust. It has a nice smell to the formula. They quickly cure when exposed to a safe LED light. They are quite light and cozy to wear. A nail file and buffer work well for filing them off.
Cons: When not applied correctly, they can result in heat spikes. When compared to other therapies, they are substantially more costly.
6. Fiberglass Nails
You’ve undoubtedly heard of fiberglass when it comes to construction and possibly even swimming pools but not nails. Although gel, standard lacquer, dip powder and acrylic manicures are far more popular, fiberglass manicures offer a different option that has been available for a long time. It’s common to be unaware of fiberglass nails, as most salons don’t provide them. “They gained popularity in the 1980s, declined in the 2000s and have only recently started to reappear,” says celebrity manicure artist Julie Kandalec, who founded Julie K Nail Artelier in New York.
Pros and cons of fiberglass nails
Pros: “Fiberglass nails made with resin are an excellent way to repair a torn corner of a nail or add a little bit of strength to the tip of a nail,” Kandalec added. In addition, they are far more flexible and thin than acrylic nails, which might also contribute to their more natural appearance. Everything is dependent on the style you choose.
Cons: The major disadvantage of fiberglass nails is that it’s not as strong as acrylic nails nor does it last longer. Since it’s not so popular anymore, another disadvantage is the fact that it is difficult locate an expert or salon who can perform the task effectively
Conclusion
With so many alternatives available to improve the strength and beauty of natural nails, artificial nails have emerged as a crucial component of personal hygiene.
Acrylic nails, gel nails, dip powder nails, silk wrap nails, fiberglass nails, Polygel nails, and press-on nails are the primary varieties. Each kind offers special advantages and ways of application while meeting a range of requirements and tastes.While acrylic nails can be harsh on natural nails, they are praised for their longevity and capacity to hold intricate designs.
Although they need to be cured under UV or LED light, gel nails have a glossy polish and a natural appearance, but they can peel easily. Although they are lightweight, robust, and quick to apply, dip powder nails can be difficult to remove. Fiberglass and silk wraps support natural nails and provide a smooth, elegant finish, although they might not last as long as other kinds.
The flexibility of gels and the strength of acrylics are combined in polygel nails, but correct application calls for expertise. Although press-on nails are quick and simple to apply, they might not last as long as professionally applied alternatives. Press-on nails are best for temporary use.
Every kind of artificial nail has advantages and disadvantages and application techniques range from in-salon treatments to at-home kits. People can select the ideal artificial nail type for their lifestyle and aesthetic tastes by being aware of these alternatives.
