Nail Art Extensions

Many nail biters are hitting the beauty salons in order to cover their bad habit and have gorgeous nails. Well manicured nails looks great, they look professional and look perfect for every event. Nails can often get dirty, hands get dry and they need looked after, we are after all very hard wearing on hands so its important to take care of them. For those of us that are not blessed with strong nails or can not seem to kick the habit of biting then nail extensions are a great solution.

There are many different types of nail extensions available therefore its important to know what ones you want, if you are unsure or want to discuss the benefits of each further then ask your nail technician. Below is a list of some of the different types on offer at most reputable salons;

- Gel nails; The gel nail extensions are made from a coloured gel which easily moulds to your fingernails. Using ultra violet light the gel is cured onto the nail and will then harden so that the don't slip. You will require nail maintenance every two to three weeks in order to keep up with nail growth.

- Acrylic nails; An acrylic nail extension is formed by using acrylic powder and creating a paste, once the paste is created it is put onto over the top of the nail. Acrylic nail extensions are quite tricky to apply and will require quite a bit of looking after. They are however very strong and will be very durable if maintained every two to three weeks.

- Fibreglass nails; Fibreglass nail extensions are made by using fibreglass cloth which is wrapped around a gel or plastic mould. Fibreglass nail extensions are very durable however will feel a lot thinner than acrylic or gel nail extensions.

In order to pick which suit you and your lifestyle then you must consider their durability. If you do quite a lot of manual work then you will want nail extensions which are very strong however are also flexible such as the gel extensions. For a more natural finish to your nails then you may want to pick a style that blends into your nail and choose a subtle finish such as a French polish.

For people that want to go more glam why not try some nail gems or bright colour; many nail technicians will offer lots of trendy and fun styles of nail art. These are perfect for a night out or a glitzy event and are sure to attract plenty of attention. If you fancy a change or something sparkly then ask the nail technician what they can do, you are sure to find something that you love!

UV Gel , Artificial Acrylic Extensions Nail Art

This article is aimed at both nail professionals and interested consumers. It considers the pros and cons of the two basic artificial, or as some people say 'fake nail' systems, to help you make more informed choices. There are a lot of misconceptions in the marketplace with regard to which artificial nail system is the best to wear and the best to apply.

In recent years the nail business has grown in leaps and bounds and so many companies are bombarding us with sophisticated advertising trying to secure their market share.

So lets get down to basics, and there really are only two basics of artificial nail systems and these are acrylic or gel nails. (Other systems may be advertised but generally they are just variations of these two).

Acrylic Nails

Although it can be called by different names, the most common is traditional acrylic, consisting of a two-part system of a liquid (monomer) and a powder (polymer). This is self curing within a few minutes and can be applied with different colour tints and glitters. It does however involve the use of strong chemicals including acetone during preparation and removal.

These chemicals not only have strong odours but can trigger allergies, irritate skin and respiratory systems especially for the technician who is exposed on a daily basis.

They can also have a very detrimental effect on your nails, drying out the natural oils which can cause damage and splitting. Yellowing or fungal infection is possible if nails are not properly maintained and water becomes trapped under the nails.

It could be argued that the level of damage incurred would relate directly to the skill level and experience of the nail technician, but no matter how skilled the manicurist, eventually some damage will occur. Most who have worn acrylic nails continuously, over long periods, will admit that they have had to take 'time out' to allow their nails to recover.

Gel Nails

Gel nails are also a form of acrylic but a one-part system consisting of the application of relatively inert liquid gel, with a thick viscosity, which is then set under a UV lamp. The heat and light "cure" the nails so they can be shaped and styled as desired. (N.B. There are 'non-UV gels' advertised which require an additional chemical activator over the gel to cure, but these in reality are only variations of acrylic nails.)

UV Gel nails, which they are most commonly called, can be initially more expensive than acrylics (not in every case however) but they have other considerable advantages. Their application does not involve harsh chemicals or odours and results in far less damage to the nail.

They are clearer, more shiny, non-yellowing and most people consider gel nails more natural looking than acrylic. UV gels are also available in colours and glitters and can be used to create most any kind of nail art.

Gels are certainly more comfortable to wear, less brittle and can last longer, thus justifying any extra cost incurred. All gels are not the same however, and vary considerably in quality. Some gels are overpriced, will lift easily and are more difficult to apply.

Be on your guard... quality does not always relate to price! Try different products, take advantage of free demonstrations if offered and decide for yourself. You are the best judge whether or not a product is right for you!

There is now however, a breakthrough Canadian sculptured nail system. The chemistry for this UV gel is based on up-to-date polymer science and the development and products incorporate the latest technology. With this system the nails are flexible and strong, imitating the structure of the natural nail. More than any other artificial nail system, it combines a light, natural feel and look with exceptional resiliency.