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.
The system features everything you could need, from french manicure to over 30 coloured gels, glitters and flowers for the most creative nail art. There is no fear of any toxic impact from these products which are non-porous and seal against fungus and mould. When applied properly there is no lifting and application is generally considered faster than similar products, saving time and money, as the latest technology allows it to be filed and shaped much more easily than most gels without any reduction in strength.
