To date, there are two technologies for nail extension: gel and acrylic. Both of them have their advantages and disadvantages. The quality of extended nails will depend not so much on the technology used, but on the quality of materials, the professionalism of the master and the individual characteristics of the body. The condition and structure of your own marigold also matters.
Gel nail extension
Gel is a special chemical used to create an artificial nail. Hardens only under ultraviolet rays.
Advantages of gel extensions:
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- the gel has such a feature as self-leveling during application;
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- using the gel on the nails creates a smooth, shiny coating;
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- the material is resistant to household chemicals and cosmetics, including acetone;
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- the gel has no smell;
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- the ability to create various types of design – from a colored jacket to modeling.
Disadvantages of this extension:
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- self-alignment, which we voiced as a virtue, in some cases can become a disadvantage; for example, when trying to create a three-dimensional figure in the right place;
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- gel extension is impossible without a special UV lamp that bakes the material;
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- rather complicated removal – sawing of the material, which, in the absence of proper experience or through negligence, can lead to additional injury to the natural nail plate;
Gel extension technology
Before starting work, the hands of the master and the client must be treated with an antiseptic solution.
At the first stage, the glossy surface of the natural nail plate is filed with a nail file with an abrasive of 180 to 200 grit. A degreasing agent is applied to the sawn natural nail. It dries quickly enough, so you don’t have to spend too much time drying this layer – while you process one handle, everything has time to dry on the second.
Next, nail forms or tips are attached to each finger. The first layer of gel is applied to the nail and the form (or tips) and immediately baked in the lamp. Depending on the intended design and shape of the nail, the gel is applied in three or more layers.
When all layers are thoroughly dry, we file off the excess gel, give the extended free edge of the nail the desired length and shape. We check that the surface of the resulting nail is even, without unnecessary drops.
At the final stage, we cover the nails with a layer of finishing gel, dry it in a lamp and complete the design.
Acrylic nail extension
Acrylic is a combination of a special liquid and powder. Combining, they quickly freeze.
Advantages of acrylic extensions:
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- the ability to create more extravagant or sophisticated forms of the nail;
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- acrylic is removed with a special liquid, which does not lead to excessive grinding of the natural nail;
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- self-hardening without the use of a UV lamp;
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- the ability to create amazing designs using sculpting.
Disadvantages of acrylic extensions:
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- at the final stage, it is necessary to grind and polish the nails;
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- acrylic is sensitive to some household products, especially those containing acetone;
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- acrylic emits a strong specific smell, which is not pleasant to everyone;
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- getting on the skin, acrylic can cause a burning sensation and discomfort, and in some cases, allergic reactions.
Acrylic extension technology
At the first stage, we should also treat our hands with an antiseptic solution and remove the shiny surface of a natural nail.
We attach molds or tips to the surface of the natural nail plate and apply several layers of acrylic. If you used tips, they will remain on the nail and will be cut off gradually during future corrections.
Now we cut off the excess acrylic and give the nails the necessary shape. Be sure to apply a top coat to give extended nails a smooth and shiny look.
Apply varnish and enjoy the result
Both that, and other material at long use are capable to level a surface of a natural nail. An important point – extension can only be performed on absolutely healthy nails. If you have nail fungus or other diseases, they must first be treated. Otherwise, the infection, sealed under a layer of artificial material, will happily multiply and cause you a lot of inconvenience or even complications.
Gel and acrylic nails are strong but take some getting used to at first, especially if you’ve gained a lot of length compared to natural nails. Despite all the strength, try to do everything as carefully as possible for the first few days.
Acrylic nails are removed using special solutions, so you can remove them yourself. With gel nails, you will need to contact the master, since they are removed by cutting. Self-removal of gel nails can lead to unnecessary injury.
Where to stop?
Which extension technology to choose is up to you. Gel, like acrylic, has its pros and cons. In terms of strength, both types of building are on the same level, the probability of cracks is minimal. Moreover, material manufacturers are trying to keep up with the times and improve their products.
