Which Is Right For Me
Ultimately, only you can decide which nails seem right for you. In a twist, you might even decide you want to do your nails the ancient way and buy some henna. No matter what you choose, we know your nails will look fun and super cute.
The history of nails has led us all the way to a time when you can get very professional nails from the comfort of your own home. If you are trying to get the perfect nail at home or at the salon you should opt for a gel manicure.
Gel manicures are the most affordable and durable. Emphasis on the affordable part if you actually end up opting for gel nail polish strips and doing your own nails at home.
When it comes to press-ons and nail stickers or even any classic nail polish, these options are prone to tearing, chipping, and ripping.
Overall, we hope you have learned from this guide and are ready to try some new nails. If youre looking to start your semi-cured gel nail journey ohora is ready to help you. With salon-quality and tons of the latest designs, we know youll love them.
Prep Your Hands & Cuticles
Sometimes we tend to forget about our hands and cuticles when were applying press-on nails. Its extremely important to moisturize your hands and especially your cuticles before a press-on nail application. This will ensure the press-on nails can firmly bond to your nail bed, which will make them last much longer. All it takes is some cuticle care and an application of cuticle oil or another moisturizer.
What Fake Nails Stay On The Longest
The key to ensuring your fake nails stay on the longest is to make sure they fit correctly. “Using a nail that doesnt fit the arch, aka apex, of your nail will make it pop off too soonif it even lasts,” says Kandalec. She recommends sizing up the actual nail and tapering the sides down to fit.
As mentioned earlier, “always make sure you clean your nails with 91 percent alcohol before applying your press-ons and add a healthy amount of nail adhesive to your nails to make them last longer.” With good application and proper care, press-ons can last up to two weeks, explains Kandalec, adding that they normally last anywhere from five to ten days.
Also Check: How Do I Get Dip Nails Off
How To Safely Remove A Gel Manicure
If you dont have an e-file on hand, Lim says the best tool for removing gel polish is a 100/180 grit filesomething you can find at most drugstores. You should only use the 180 side when removing the shine, but you may need to use the 100 side to break down multiple layers of topcoat, builder gel, or nail art, she instructs.
As much as you may want the gel removal process to go as quickly as possible, its best to take your time if you want to keep the health of your nails intact. With that in mind, Gibson Tuttle has a go-to removal process.
First, file a bit to break the topcoat seal, she says. Then, place cotton balls soaked in acetone on your nails and wrap your fingertips in tin foil. Let them sit for 10 minutes before attempting to remove the polish. To speed up the process, Gibson Tuttle says you can try wrapping a hot towel around your fingers while theyre wrapped in foil.
According to all three experts, a cuticle oil or serum is your BFF post-gel mani. Your nails will be on the brittle side due to the removal solution, so it is important to rehydrate your nail, Lim says. She notes, however, that if youre going directly from one mani to the next, its best to avoid cuticle oil, as it may cause lifting.
Why Gel Nail Polish Strips
Press-on complete nail wraps or stick-ons, the lower-quality siblings of gel nail strips, are undoubtedly something you’ve heard of or perhaps tried. Maybe you bought some nail paint stickers at the pharmacy, only to have them fall off at inappropriate moments. In terms of quality and use, gel home manicures are far more comparable to a salon manicure or pedicure than press-ons.
Gel is the way to go if you want high-quality manicures with actual nail polish.
Gel lasts longer than regular nail polish, which is always a plus when you consider how long it takes to apply your own nails at home. Gel polish is also less prone to chip, peel, or crack than regular polish due to its chemical composition.
Don’t Miss: How To Get Salon Quality Nails At Home
Do Gel Manis Damage Your Nails
Not when they’re done correctly! “Gel manicures are not bad for your nails when professionally done,” Duguay-Gordon says. “It can be damaging though, without proper nail prep, application and removal.” A common misconception is that gel manis damage your nails when in reality, the removal process is usually the most harmful.
Avoid picking the gel off yourself , and if you’re getting your nails done at the salon, be sure your nail technician isn’t filing, buffing them down, or using a drill.
Many people worry about getting gels because they fear their nails won’t be able to “breathe,” but Duguay-Gordon assures that nails don’t breath, as they’re dead to begin with. The whole idea is a myth, but it is kind of cute to imagine your little nails with micro-nostrils.
Choose The Right Shape & Length For Your Lifestyle
Really think about how much you use your hands and what you use them for on a day-to-day basis. If youre constantly washing dishes, long stiletto nails are probably not the right fit for you and will likely break after just a few days of wear. If you arent engaged in a lot of manual labor, you can probably get away with press-on nails that are a bit longer and more tapered.
It all depends on what works best for you! There are dozens of lengths and shapes to choose from.
Read Also: How To Grow Your Nails Fast
Are Gel Manicures Worth It
If you get normal manis on the reg or have a big spring break trip coming up that you want chip-free color for, gel is def worth the splurge. They only cost around $10 to $15 more than a regular one. But if it’s just for one night or you’re on a budget, you might want to opt for press-on nails or a regular manicure.
Gel Manicures: A Complete Guide To Gel Nails
- EMAILSHARE
Olive & June
Looking for a manicure that will last through vacation, busy work weeks, and days filled with hands-on projects? Its time to consider getting a gel manicure. But before you do, there are a few things you should know first. To help you polish up on all things gels, keep scrolling for some expert tips on getting and maintaining gel manis.
Meet the Expert
- Sarah Gibson Tuttle, CEO, and founder of Olive & June
- Evelyn Lim, Paintbox chief educator
- Anastasia Totty, LeChat Nails educator and professional gel nail artist
Read Also: How Much Nail Tech Make
Stay Away From Water If You Want Them To Last
A gel manicures worst opponent is hot water, states Rita, therefore why soaking them is one of the most effective means to obtain them off. Long baths, showers or time spent in the jacuzzi can create training, so try your best to prevent these or maintain them to a minimum and also always put on rubber handwear covers when you do the meals! Properly kept in mind.
Selecting Is A Bad Concept
One thing thats rather usual among gel fans is the picking process. When the color begins to raise, you may be attracted to remove it, almost like you would a scab. As peeling and raising begin, water can seep right into the nail, says Jenna. This can nurture bacteria and also perhaps trigger fungi. Once the peeling phase begins, its hard not to choose at your gloss. If you rip it off, youre possibly taking some layers of your nail off with it. This kind of damage can take control of 6 months to fix. Dr. Adigun includes: In one research, nail plate density was determined both before and after just one gel manicure as well as thinning was observed. Its unclear precisely which component created the thinning, yet one or more factors in the gel procedure are to blame.
When used and gotten rid of appropriately, how to do press on nails using builder gel for glue are secure to wear on an ongoing basis, adds Rita. Gels can certainly damage the nails if they are peeled off or pried off the nail, which can strip layers of the natural nail, or if the nail if over buffed before the gel application.
Don’t Miss: Does Nail Polish Help With Toenail Fungus
Can Gel Manicures Damage Your Nails
Emmanuel Faure / Getty Images
Say you notice that your gel polish is chipped. As annoying as that might be, you should never pick off the rest. “Gel manicures dont damage nails what can be damaging is a poor removal process such as peeling it off the nail,” Totty says.
The biggest disadvantage to gel manicures is improper removal, Gibson Tuttle shares. You can avoid this by properly removing the polish yourself at home or seeking manicurists who take their time in removal to protect your nails.
Even when you follow every protocol for healthy gel removal, theres a chance that your nail plates could come out looking and feeling damaged. If peeling nails is your reality, Gibson Tuttle says it’s best to skip gels for a while and allow the nail to grow out. Applying daily cuticle oil is a must to help your nails grow strong, she adds.
How Do You Remove Gel Extensions
If you have hard or semi-hard gel extensions on, a professional needs to remove your set. “First, the enhancement is gently filed down to about 10-15% of its thickness, avoiding filing the natural nail,” Kandalec says. “The rest is soaked off by saturating a small piece of cotton in pure acetone and wrapped in foil. After about 15-20 minutes, the remainder will flake away, leaving behind a healthy nail.”
Read Also: Which Nail Polish Lasts The Longest
Static Nails French 75 Pop
In case you haven’t heard, the French manicure is back. And this press-on nail set makes it effortless to get even white tips. The kit comes with 24 reusable nails in 12 sizes per hand. Even better: They can be reshaped and painted if you want to customize your French further. Rainbow tips anyone?
To buy: $22 staticnails.com
Don’t Forget The Glue
Most press-on nail packs will come with double-sided tape. But if you want your press-on nails to last longer, use glue. “If you are worried about any nails coming off, be sure to apply the glue at the tip of your own nail and near the base of the artificial press on,” Edwards suggests.
According to the pro nail artist, glued-on nails can stay on for up to 10 days. But to ensure your fake nails hold up, she recommends avoiding soaking your hands in warm water for 24 hours immediately following the application. “Let the glue and nail settle and mold to your nails,” says Edwards.
Also Check: How To Get Black Nail Polish Out Of Carpet
How Much Does It Cost
The cost of a gel manicure varies widely between cities, states, and nail techs. In major cities like LA and New York City, a gel manicure can cost anywhere from $30 to $50+. In general, expect gel polish to cost about $10 to $15 more than your regular manicure. Keep in mind that you’ll also have to pay for gel removal if you decide you don’t want to take it off at home.
Are There Different Kinds Of Gel Extensions
There are two basic types: hard gel and soft gel. In short, hard gels are non-porous, making them acetone-resistant. “These enhancements are powerful and can be worn long and filed into different shapes like coffin, stiletto, and ballerina,” Kandalec says. Soft gels are porous. Thats why they can be soaked off with acetonebut cannot be made into extensions. A semi-hard gel is a hard enough hybrid to be made into extensions but can also be soaked off .
You May Like: What Nails Do You Use For Siding
What Is A Gel Manicure
A gel manicure follows most of the same steps as your traditional manicureyour nails are cut, filed, and shaped, cuticles are cut , but that’s where the similarities end.
Gel nail polish is painted on similarly to classic lacquer. However, it is cured with a UV or LED light to help lock it in place for long-lasting wear. Each coat of gel polish will need to be cured for about 30 to 60 seconds at a time. And instead of waiting for your nails to dry, you’re ready to leave the salon as soon as your last topcoat cures. And as a bonus, Gel manicures are more resistant to chips and wear and tear, says Gibson Tuttle. They also stay glossy for the duration of the manicure.
Megan Thee Stallion Has Mastered The Art Of Grown
Finding your desired size and style of press-ons is probably the hardest thing about using them. Once they’re in your hands, though, putting them on is alarmingly easy. Based on trial and error , I’ve learned that the key to the perfect press-on application is not to overdo it on glue. Just plop a drop at the tip and at the base of your natural nail and drop that nail right on top. Press down on it firmly for a few seconds while the glue dries, and you’re basically done. When glued properly, a press-on set can stay secure for a solid week if you’re gentle with your hands.
And you never have to fuss with them after that. Press-ons don’t chip. They never lose their shine or shape. And if one pops off prematurely, you can clean it with alcohol, file down the edges, and glue it right back on.
Your natural nails are much safer underneath a pair of press-ons than gels or acrylics.
My personal obsession with press-ons is primarily due to the fact that they save me from myself. Wearing a set provides the perfect obstacle between my nails and my reflexive chewing, leaving my nails to grow in peace underneath. What’s more: I find that press-ons and glue don’t damage my nails the same way gel polish or acrylics do when they come off nail artist Gina Edwards agrees. “The biggest benefit of a press-on is that you are in charge of your nail health,” she says. According to her, you just have to be patient when soaking glued-on nails off.
Allure
Read Also: How To Treat Green Nails At Home
Try Smitten Tips Gel Nail Polish Strips
Smitten Tips gel nail polish strips make it easy to get the perfect at-home manicure in minutes. Made with real nail polish, our nail strips feature a semi-cure formulation for better fit and durability that lasts up to 14 days!
Key Features
- Semi-Cured. Our semi-cured formulation provides superior durability and a better fit. Get the salon look without all the chemicals.
- Length? Yes! Our nail strips are designed to beautifully elongate your hands.
- Small Batch. Small batch production ensures the highest level of quality.
- Size Options. Our products come with 12 size options so you can get the best fit every time.
- Multiple Applications. Each set comes with 30 strips for up to 2 applications.
- Mirror Salon Finish. Get a professional nail salon look from your own home, in minutes!
- Exclusive Designs. Stand out in style with our exclusive, limited-edition collections.
Kiss Full Cover Nails
In the same way color-blocking made its way from fashion to nails, ombre isn’t just for your hair anymore either. Kawajiri loves the trend, and while you could do it in this nude shade, you can also go bold with these extra long black and white ones. Both come in the trendy coffin shape, but you can shave them down to an oval, square, or whatever your preference may be once the glue dries. Just note that nail glue doesn’t come in this kit, so you’ll want to buy some .
Length: Medium
Read Also: Do Your Own Acrylic Nails
Best Overall: Static Nails
-
Includes glue, file, and buffer
-
Can be removed, reapplied, re-shaped, and re-painted
-
Some styles are not long-lasting
Who else recommends it? Allure, Insider, and Best Products all picked Static Nails.
Take your pick from over 60 different packs, available in a wide array of lengths, effects, colors, and coverage. Want a long, almond-shaped chrome mani? They have that. Prefer round, matte, and nude? Theyve got that, too. You get the picture. Each set comes with 24 nails in 10 different sizes, plus a non-damaging glue, file, and buffer. Also nice: These can be removed, then reapplied, and even re-shaped and re-painted.
What’s The Difference Between Gel And Acrylic
Gel and acrylic are completely different â acrylic nails are made with a powder dipped in solvent. “They’re essentially used to lengthen the nail or provide a stronger top layer over the natural nail,” says Miss Pop. Think: the crazy-long coffin nails Kylie Jenner is obsessed with.
Sometimes acrylic nails come in colors, but they’re usually clear or natural-toned. Gels, on the other hand, come in nail polish shades and are made hard by being cured under a UV or LED lamp.
Don’t Miss: How To Fix Brittle Nails
Are The Uv Lights Dangerous
“Those purple-colored lights that help your nails dry are actually UV lights,” explains Miss Pop. “Conventional wisdom says unnecessary exposure to UV rays is bad for you, but they have been part of salon services forever.”
Luckily, there have been huge improvements in gel technology, and many brands have converted to LED curing, which doesn’t have the side effects UV rays have on your skin.
SUNUV SUNUV SUN2C 48W LED UV nail Lamp with 4 Timer Setting,Senor For Gel Nails and Toe Nail Curing
Ask your salon for that option. If you love your UV lamp for drying, put sunscreen on your hands before â just in case.
