Nail extensions are gradually becoming a must-have for any nail lover out there. This might be a push for you to get these trendy and sophisticated nail extensions, but fortunately and unfortunately for you, they come in numerous designs and types with different prices and diverse application processes.
I can imagine how overwhelmed you will be since you need to make a choice, and this will be difficult if you don’t have an idea of how to navigate the world of nail extensions.
Anyway, in this post, I will lead you out of this dilemma by showing how nail extensions work, the benefits of using nail extensions, the best types of nail extensions, different nail extension designs, and how to apply nail extensions. So read on!
How Does a Nail Extension Work?
A nail extension, also known as a nail enhancement, is a cosmetic procedure in which artificial nails are applied over natural nails to create a longer, more sculpted look. Several different nail extensions include acrylic nails, gel nails, and silk nails.
Applying for nail extensions typically begins with preparing the natural nails by filling and buffing them to create a smooth surface.
The artificial nails are then applied using a brush or sculpting tool and shaped to the desired length and shape. The nails are then filed, buffed, and polished to create a seamless finish.
The Benefits of Using Nail Extension
1. It gives additional length
One major benefit nail extensions offer is that they create elongated nails, which is especially desirable for those with short or bitten nails.
2. It offers the option of various shapes
Nail extensions can create a desired shape, such as a square or round tip, which can help to beautify the fingers and create a more elegant look.
3. Nail extension helps to strengthen the natural nails
Nail extensions can help to strengthen and protect natural nails, making them less prone to breaking and chipping.
4. They offer a variety of fashionable looks
Nail extensions create various looks, such as French tips, ombre, or glitter nails, which can be a fun way to express individuality and personal style.
5. Nail extension is a convenient option for all lifestyles
Another merit of nail extensions is that they are convenient for all lifestyles, especially for those with a busy lifestyle, as they can help reduce the need for frequent nail maintenance.
6. It helps to repair damaged nails
Nail extensions are used to repair damaged nails and help them grow back healthy.
Best Types of Nail Extensions
There are different nail extensions, and they also have different uses. I recommend using nail hardeners to protect nails before using nail extensions. Here are the lists of all the best nail extensions you can try:
1. Acrylic nail extensions
Acrylic nail extensions are made by mixing a liquid and powder to create a paste that is applied over the natural nail. They are the most common type of nail extension that most people know about.
The mixture hardens and forms a durable, sculptable base for artificial nails.
How to apply acrylic nail extensions
When you want to apply acrylic nail extensions, place an acrylic nail onto the original nail, then shape this artificial extended nail to look similar to an original nail.
After that, add glue as a cover onto the natural nail’s tip, which hardens from time to time, and they will look exactly like an original nail as a whole.
What is the price of the acrylic nail extension?
The average price of the acrylic false nail extension starts from $16 to $20.
2. Gel nail extension
These types of nail extensions are composed of a composite gel material, and they are also known as gel overlays. Gel nails are cured under UV light, which creates a harder and more durable nail extension.
Moreover, compared to acrylic nail extensions, gel nail extensions consist of a gel that is covered on your original nail, which gives a shiny look. Also, they are later set up by exposure to UV light to firm them.
How to apply a gel nail extension
Gel nail extensions are straightforward to use. All you have to do is cover your original nail with a transparent gel that does not have any smell.
Due to its transparency and lightweightness, it will not even feel like you have it, and it will give you the most comfortable feeling and look more natural than acrylic nail extensions.
What is the price of the Gel nail extension?
The average price of gel nail extensions starts from $25, but due to their kit, which needs to be bought separately, it goes to $50.
3. Fiberglass nail extension
These nail extensions are also considered to be named silk extensions or silk nail wraps. Fiberglass nail extensions are the types of nail extensions that are not very popular compared to gel and acrylic nail extensions.
How to apply fiberglass nail extensions
To apply fiberglass nail extensions, all you have to do is glue the tip at your original nail, and once it gets dry, spray over it, which sets it, enhances its toughness, and hardens it up, making it look like a nail as a whole.
What is the price of the fiberglass nail extension?
The average price of the fiberglass nail extension is $50, including its kit, which must be bought separately.
4. Dip powder nail extensions
Dip powder is a coating that can be used for short extensions. It is hard to build on the nail bed and correct structure using this, so it is recommended as a natural nail overlay rather than creating nail extensions. It consists of powder, resin, and an activator.
How to apply Dip powder nail extensions
To apply this extension, dip your nail in the powder, allowing you to create a stunning manicure without the need for gel polish or nail varnish.
5. Polygel or acrygel extensions
Polygel is another great nail extension you can go for. One unique feature of this extension is that it combines the advantages of both acrylic and gel extensions.
Polygel can be used to build nail extensions, strengthen your natural nails, or fix a broken nail while serving as a natural nail overlay.
6. Silk nail extensions
Silk nails, also known as wraps, are made from thin silk or fiberglass material applied to the natural nail and then coated with a hardening gel or resin.
Different Nail Extension Designs
Nail extension designs offer a wide range of possibilities for expressing creativity and style. Here are some popular and creative nail extension designs you can consider:
1. French tips
These nail extension designs are classic and timeless, with a white or nude base and a clean, defined white tip.
2. Ombre nails
Ombre nails are created from the gradual blending of one color into another, creating a beautiful gradient effect.
3. Glitter accents
Another beautiful nail design you can go for is glitter accents. It is achieved by adding a touch of sparkle by incorporating glitter into your nail extension design.
4. Marble nails
Also, you can achieve a sophisticated and unique look by mimicking the appearance of marble on your nail extensions.
5. Geometric patterns
Use tape or freehand techniques to create geometric shapes and patterns for a modern and edgy look.
6. Floral designs
Incorporate hand-painted flowers or floral decals for a feminine and romantic touch.
7. Abstract art
Get creative with abstract designs, swirls, and splatters for a bold and artistic statement.
8. Chrome or metallic finishes
Achieve a futuristic look with chrome or metallic finishes for a shiny, reflective surface.
9. Matte nails
Opt for a matte top coat to give your nail extensions a velvety, non-shiny appearance.
In conclusion
Nail extensions offer a wide range of sophisticated nail fashion, so you don’t have to feel limited or restricted. In the post, I have given you options like acrylic nail extensions, gel nail extensions, fiberglass nail extensions, etc, which are the best options.
Also, there are numerous designs at low prices. With all these discussed in the post, you will be able to make the best choice of nail extension.