Artificial nails are recommended for you if you want to have longer nails instantly or that you want to have a set of more
beautiful nails. There are two types of artificial nails, gel nails and acrylic nails.
Acrylic nails appeared earlier than gel nails in the market. Acrylic is formed by mixing a monomer and a polymer. The thick liquid is then applied to natural nails as artificial nails.
Acrylic is a very strong and robust substance. Hence, when applied correctly and with proper care, acrylic nails can last a long time without breaking. However, some people may find some difficulty accepting the strong-smelling chemicals that are used in the application and removal process of acrylic nails.
The prices of acrylic nails are usually slightly lower as compared to gel nails.
Gel nails are newer in the market. Gel nails are made up of premixed polymer and monomer gel that is applied to natural nails. The gel nails are then cured in two ways. The light cured gel nails are cured by exposing them to ultra violet rays after application.
The no-light gel nails are cured with a gel activator that is brushed or sprayed onto the nails and dipped in water for a few minutes. They do not require strong-smelling chemicals to apply or remove, but gels nails are not as strong and hard as acrylic nails.
The main advantage of gel nails over acrylic nails is they look much more natural than the latter. Often, they are even mistaken for natural nails and can even be worn without
nail polish whereas acrylic nails look better when painted.
Gel nails do have their disadvantages too. Other than not being as long-lasting as acrylic nails, gel nails tend to be more expensive. It is also noted that nail polish tend to adhere better to acrylic nails than gel nails. When
acrylic nail breaks, you can almost always fix it back yourself temporarily.
However, when gel nail breaks, it is usually quite impossible to fix it yourself and you would have to go back to your manicurist. Both acrylic and gel nails have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it is up to the individual to choose which is more suitable for you.
While we want our nails to look perfect and beautiful, it is important to note that artificial nails should not be worn for a prolonged period of time, or else the natural nails will be suffocated and deprived of the chance to breathe freely. Do go to qualified and reputable manicurists who are skilled and experienced to do artificial nails. If the nails are not glued properly and there are gaps between the artificial nails and natural nails, it may result in discolorations.
Gaps are moist and warm environments which encourage the growth of bacteria and fungi, and could eventually result in nail infections. Reputable manicurists will also sanitise their tools regularly.
This is important because while we want to look beautiful, we do not want another customer's fungi to be spread to us in the process.
