Why A Natural Manicure Is Healthier & Safer
Natural manicures tend to be better for your nail health because they:
You can see how a natural manicure is done in the video below.
Treatment Information Advice And Aftercare
To achieve maximum benefits from your treatment, we recommend following some basic tips and advice.
- Nail extensions may take some time getting used to. Gradually you will get into the habit of using your hands in a different way and the it will start to feel as natural as your own nails.
Our top tips
- Try to give your nails a good clean beforehand. This will stop the therapist using valuable manicure-time doing it herself, so that she can get on with the good stuff!
- Rebalancing and infills of the extensions must be every 3 4 weeks. Leaving it longer may cause damage to your nails.
After your appointment
Artificial Nails: Dermatologists’ Tips For Reducing Nail Damage
Hiding damaged nails might worsen problems
Covering up brittle, soft, or damaged nails can worsen existing nail problems.
Artificial nails can lengthen short nails, making your fingers look long and slender. They can also be hard on your nails.
To get acrylic nails to stick, the surface of your natural nails must be filed until they feel rough. This thins your natural nails, making them weaker. Chemicals in the products used to apply artificial nails can irritate the skin around your nails and elsewhere.
The list of health risks doesnt end here. To remove artificial nails, you often need to soak in acetone or file them off. If you want to wear artificial nails for more than a few weeks, youll need touch-ups every 2 to 3 weeks to fill in the gaps that appear as your nails grow. Frequent touch-ups can seriously damage your natural nails.
In short, artificial nails can leave your nails thin, brittle, and parched.
Still, some people love the look of artificial nails. If youre one of them, these tips from dermatologists can help you reduce the damage:
When youre not wearing artificial nails, a regular or French manicure can leave your nails looking fabulous.
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How Long Does A Basic Manicure Last
Manicures with regular nail polish are notorious for chipping right away, especially when done at home, and typically, they last a few days. To make your DIY mani last as long as possible, Kandalec recommends wiping down the nail and under the free edge with 99 percent isopropyl alcohol to remove any oils from the nails that could prevent the polish from adhering. At a salon, your nail tech will likely do the same.
Nash + Pino Nail Lacquer in Lemon Drop
What Are Gel Nail Extensions
Gel nail extension is a process that involves hard gel built on a natural nail and cured with UV light. The manicurist uses a nail form, which is a sticker that goes under the free edge of the nail, to extend the length of the nail.
Top manicurists like Davis and Seney also rely on a newer method. “It’s an already shaped full soft gel nail tip that you secure on the natural nail with gel,” explains Davis. They come in different sizes and shapes like stiletto, round, coffin, and square. As it doesn’t need filling, it’s even quicker than the actual gel extension building. “I recommend brands Kiara Sky Gelly Tips and ,” says Seney.
The only prerequisite is that your nails can’t be bitten to the quick. “For a gel extension, your nail needs to have a little length, not a ton but just a bit,” says Davis. “If your nails are too short, there isnt anything for the extension to stick to.”
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How Do You Remove Shellac
Where you see the most nail health benefits of Shellac is in the removal process, Arnold says. Shellac has a unique formulation that, when applied, forms tiny microscopic tunnels throughout the coating. This means that when its time for removal, the acetone penetrates through those tiny tunnels, all the way to the base layer, actually releasing the polish off of the nail. In other words, no long removal times or dreaded scraping. As simple as the process is, Arnold recommends getting the polish removed at a salon rather than doing it yourself.
Best Alternatives To Acrylic Nails
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase.
Are you tired of acrylic and looking for an alternative to acrylic nails?
The good news is there are a lot of great alternatives out there for you to try!
Acrylic nails are a popular type of nail polish that has become increasingly popular in recent years.
While acrylic nails are undeniably beautiful, they have some disadvantages that should be considered when looking for an alternative to acrylic nails.
Acrylic nails are brittle and can easily chip or break, making them less durable than other types of nails.
Additionally, they often require a lot of maintenance, including frequent filing and shaping, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
If youre looking for nails without acrylic this post is for you!
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How To Make Gel Polish Manicures Safer & Healthier
1- Avoid using Acetone to remove your gel polish There are other safer methods you can use to remove your gel polish.
I have an entire article that goes through 4 different methods you can use to remove gel polish without using acetone. You can click here to read it.
2- Use a Manicure Glove or apply sunscreen if you are worried about UV exposure I recommend wearing a manicure glove or applying sunscreen onto your hands and fingers when you are curing your gel polish.
I have an entire article on Manicure gloves where I recommend the best ones and where I explain how they work. You can click here to read it.
Or you can
You Can Remove Gel Nail Polish At Home Safely
Gel nails are expensive, no doubt. And, removing them professionally at a salon can also cost a bomb. If you want to save on the latter, you can remove gel nails safely at home. All you need to do is soak a cotton ball in acetone-free nail polish remover, place it on the top of your nail and wrap each nail in foil. Leave it on for about 15 minutes, and then gently slide off each foil.
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How Long Does Vinylux Last
When applied properly, a Vinylux manicure can last a full seven days. A cardinal nail sin, which is made by many at-home polish connoisseurs, is skipping the top coat, Arnold says. But I cant stress enoughdont skimp on this step. Especially with Vinylux, as it is a two-step system, always apply the Vinylux Weekly Top Coat. Its the key to long-lasting wear, protection, and shine.
How Does It Work
False nails come in two types extensions and overlays. Which you choose depends on whether you want additional length or strengthening and long lasting colour. Nail extensions, also known as tips, are made from lightweight plastic and are cut to the shape of your nail. These are glued on to your own nails and overlaid with acrylic or gel to secure and finish. Overlays skip the extension step with acrylic or gel being applied directly onto your natural nails and shaped by hand or by using forms, before being buffed to create that glossy effect. Great for anyone with nails lacking in natural wow factor.
Acrylics are the oldest form of artificial nail and use a polymer powder called polymethyl methacrylate which is mixed with a liquid monomer called ethyl methacrylate. This formula hardens after around 20-30 seconds of being exposed to air and continues to cure for a further 15 minutes. Gel coatings are set in just one or two minutes when exposed to UV light. Whilst gels arent as long lasting and tend to be more expensive than acrylics, they are strong, more flexible and odourless. Gels also cause much less damage to your natural nails than extensions. A big bonus.
False nails come in two types extensions and overlays. Which you choose depends on whether you want additional length or strengthening and long lasting colour.
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How Do You Remove Gel Nail Extensions
Davis says that gel extensions are only detrimental to your nail health if they’re not removed properly. “Aprés are soft gel so they completely soak off like a regular gel manicure,” she explains, noting that intense buffing isn’t required. However, like regular gel nails, Davis does recommend getting gel extensions removed by a professionalpreferably the one who applied them so that they know exactly which type of gel they’re removing so that damage is less of a possibility.
To remove gel extensions the nail technician will file down about 85 percent of the extension and soak off the remaining gel in acetone wrap with aluminum foil and wait 15 minutes. “Then I gently push off the product and buff the natural nail. Removal should take you 30-40 minutes the very most,” says Seney.
What Are The Cons Of Gel Nail Extensions
The removal process requires you to soak your hands in nail polish remover. This can dry out your fingers quickly. And since your nails are buffed for the gel to stick to them, they lose their shine and become thinner over time. If youre artificially lengthening your nails frequently, they will become weaker its a no-brainer. And regular exposure to UV light can dry your skin.
Even your regular nail polish can weaken your natural nails and nail bed. It can lead to dehydration, thinning of the nail plate, breakage and discolouration. Therefore, in the process of applying and removing gel nails, you need to be careful about your nail beds and cuticles because theyre made of living tissue.
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How Much Do Acrylic Nails Cost
The price varies depending on the salon, the nail tech, the location, as well as the nails themselves and the design you want. Bui says the cost of acrylic nails can be as low as $25, but other artists charge upwards of $75 to $100 for a full set. Be upfront with your nail tech about your budget, and theyll be able to guide you to your best options to fit within it.
I Heard Great Things About Skincare Slugging So I Wasn’t Surprised At How Much I Loved This Two
My nails were still weak, so I wasn’t expecting miracles after only a few days. However, prior to slugging my nails, the feel of them was rigid and rough. Now, they feel softer and look like they have a sheen to them.
Although this wasn’t exactly one of my goals when trying nail slugging, I am a cuticle picker one of my nervous habits. I think by keeping that area of my nails heavily moisturized, there wasn’t any pesky dry skin sticking up waiting to be picked by me. Another win!
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Cons Of Press On Nails
The main issue with Press on Nails is that they are not as durable as acrylic or gel extensions which means that they wont last as long.
And if you dont put them on correctly, like if you dont clean your nails before applying them, your press on nails can pop off prematurely.
Now if applied correctly Press on Nails can easily last you for around 2 weeks. I have an entire article where I share tips on How to Make Press on Nails Last Longer, you can click here to read it.
But you should only wear Press on Nails for 2-3 days to prevent an infection from occurring. You can take them off then disinfect your nails and the press-on and reapply.
You can check out the video below to see how to use and apply Press on Nails.
How Long Does A Gel Manicure Last
Typically, gel nails last two to three weeks, but no more than three weeks. Even if the clients nails grow slowly, Kandalec says they should still have them redone around the three-week mark because the gel will continue to cure under the sun and will become harder to get off and potentially cause more damage than normal.
To ensure your gel polish lasts the full two weeks, Kandalec recommends applying cuticle oil under the free edge in between appointments to prevent your natural nail from curling away from the gel.
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Soak Your Nails In Olive Oil
The most economical method to reverse nail damage is to soak your nails in olive oil for about 10 to 15 minutes every day. Olive oil penetrates the skin and nails to help repair damage and soften the nails and cuticles, which in turn makes your nails stronger and healthier. This easily available ingredient from your kitchen shelf can be your ultimate saviour.
Which Is Safer Gel Nails Or Acrylic
One key factor to consider includes fake nails that dont damage your real nails!
Acrylic nails are generally seen as being less risky than gel nails since acrylic nails are made of a hard, brittle material that can break easily.
Acrylic nails can also chip and peel, which can lead to further nail damage.
Gel nails, on the other hand, use a soft gel material that is heat-resistant.
This means that your gel nails will not chip or peel and they will last longer than acrylic nails.
Acrylic nails also dont require an adhesive, making them less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
However, acrylic nails can also be more difficult to remove than gel nails, and they may require a higher-quality remover.
Ultimately, its important to choose a nail polish that will work best for your personal style and needs.
In conclusion, there are many alternatives to acrylic nails available.
While they may not be as long-lasting as acrylic nails, they are a more natural option that is still chic and stylish.
So, if you are interested in trying something new, or you are looking for an alternative to acrylic nails, consider one of the following options: nail stickers , gel nail polish, dip powder, or gel nail extensions.
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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 .
Your Nails Need More Tlc
Did you know our nails need extra care? Even while filing our nails at home, we must pay attention to our cuticles, as any damage may cause a fungal infection.Cuticles are an integral part of our nails, as it protects our nail bed and structure.Furthermore, it also acts as a barrier against infections.
Long-term damage to cuticles invites bacterial and fungal infections. Hence, you should find natural ways to grow and strengthen your nails, says Verma.
She recommends a few ways that can help you protect your nails from long-termdamage:
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Type #4 Acrylic Manicure
Are you trying to achieve those striking nail designs you might have encountered on Pinterest? We recommend that you settle for the acrylic types AKA the least damaging artificial nails. These nail products contain a liquid polymer powder enhancement that offers durability.
You should also realize that acrylics have a unique chemistry. Usually, the traditional acrylic powder product contains a polymer and liquid, the monomer. These products harden when mixed, forming a hard surface on the nails.
There is no UV light required for the curing process to occur.
So, why does acrylic have a bad rep?
The reason is that they require high skill levels to apply to the nails. The most common acrylic product application issue involves excessive use of the product. Here are the other details to consider about acrylic nails:
- Time taken: two hours.
