There are many different types of nail extensions available on the market today. Some of the most popular include acrylic nails, gel nails, silk nails, and others. Each type of extension has its pros and cons, so choosing the type that will work best for you is essential.
Nail extensions are a great way to have long, beautiful nails without worrying about growing out. The most popular are acrylics and hard gel.
They both have a two-week maintenance schedule due to the speed of natural nail growth.
Contents of Article
1. Acrylic nail extensions
Acrylic nails are created by applying a thin layer of acrylic powder to the nail and then curing it with UV light. This type of extension is durable and can last up to two weeks. However, they can be a bit more challenging to remove than other extensions.
Acrylic nails are a trendy way to have your nails done. They can be sculpted on top of forms or on a preshaped plastic nail tip. The acrylic powder can create colorful designs, and the liquid part has a powerful specific odor. It is usually not the chosen product by mobile nail technicians because of the smell. However, getting an odorless monomer that changes the way it is used and requires a UV/ LED lamp to cure the product is possible. Acrylic nails are easy to spot because of their thickness – the most popular designs would be ombre nails, french smile lines, marble, encapsulated glitter, or transparent extensions. When creating a shorter extension, the artist may prefer to do a design with Gel Polish on top.
Benefits of acrylic nail extensions
- Very durable
- It can last up to two weeks
- Available in a variety of colors and styles
- Afordable
Cons of acrylic nail extensions
- It can be difficult to remove
- It can damage the natural nail
2. Gel nail extensions
Gel nails are created by applying a thin layer of gel polish to the nail and then curing it with UV light. This type of extension is durable and can last up to two weeks. They are also easy to remove, making them a good option for those new to nail extensions.
Benefits of gel nail extensions:
- Durable
- Easy to remove
- Available in a variety of colors and styles
Cons of gel nail extensions:
- It can damage the natural nail.
3. Silk nail extensions
Silk nails are created by applying a thin layer of silk to the nail and then curing it with UV light. This type of extension is durable and can last up to four weeks. They are also easy to remove, making them a good option for those new to nail extensions.
Benefits of silk nail extensions:
- Durable
- Easy to remove
- Lasts up to four weeks
Cons of silk nail extensions:
- It can be more expensive than other types of extensions
4. Fiberglass nail extensions
Fiberglass nails are created by applying a thin layer of fiberglass to the nail and then curing it with UV light. This type of extension is durable and can last up to six weeks. They are also easy to remove, making them a good option for those new to nail extensions.
Benefits of fiberglass nails:
- Durable
- Easy to remove
- Lasts up to six weeks
Cons of fiberglass nails:
- It can be more expensive than other types of extensions
5. Hard gel
Do you like having long, beautiful nails? If so, you may be interested in learning about hard gel extensions. Hard gel is the most popular type of extension in Europe, and it comes in pots with a very thick consistency. It is applied in a few layers and cured under a UV/LED lamp. The curing can cause heat spikes, but this is nothing to worry about – most brands offer ‘soak-off gels.
Hard gel is a file-off system that cannot be dissolved by acetone. However, some brands offer ‘soak-off gels. This means that if you ever want to remove your extensions, you can do so by soaking them in acetone for a few minutes.
One of the great things about hard gel extensions is that they can be colorful. You can use different shades of gel to create beautiful designs, similar to what you can do with acrylic nails. In fact, many nail technicians prefer to use hard gel to create their designs, as it is thinner and more flexible than acrylic.
Benefits of hard gel nails:
- It can be used to create beautiful designs
- Thinner and more flexible than acrylic
- Soak-off gels are available
Cons of hard gel nails:
- The curing process can cause heat spikes
- Some brands are more expensive than others
So, hard gel extensions may be the right choice if you’re looking for a way to achieve long, beautiful nails. Be sure to ask your local nail technician about this option the next time you’re getting your nails done.
6. Sticker nail extensions
Sticker nails are created by applying a thin layer of adhesive to the nail and then attaching a sticker. This type of extension is very easy to apply and can last up to one week. They are also easy to remove, making them a good option for those new to nail extensions.
Benefits of sticker nails:
- Easy to apply
- Easy to remove
Cons of sticker nails:
- It can be less durable than other types of extensions
7. Dip powder nail extensions
Dip powder nails are created by applying a thin layer of powder to the nail and then dipping it in a clear or colored powder. This type of extension is durable and can last up to four weeks. They are also easy to remove, making them a good option for those new to nail extensions.
Benefits of dip powder nails:
- Durable
- Easy to remove
- Lasts up to four weeks
Cons of dip powder nails:
- It can be more expensive than other types of extensions
8. Acrygel extensions
Acrygel is a trendy new product that has many benefits. You can use it to create nail extensions, strengthen natural nails, and repair broken nails. It comes in a tube or pot and has a thick density. There are not many brands that sell this product yet, but those that do come in a wide range of colors. You must use Gel Polish on top if you want a different color or pattern. You can use forms, tips, and dual forms to shape nail extensions.
Dual forms are the way to go if you want to get your nails done quickly and easily. Simply apply the substance to your nails using a brush, push it against the natural nail, and cure it with a UV/LED bulb. You’ll be left with a great-looking set of nails limited only by your imagination. So go ahead and try different shapes and styles to find the look that best suits you.
Benefits of acrygel nails:
- It can be used to create nail extensions
- It can be used to strengthen natural nails
- It can be used to repair broken nails
Cons of acrygel nails:
- Not many brands sell this product, yet
- It can be more expensive than other types of extensions
9. Express Nail Extensions
Nail extensions can be a great way to achieve your desired look in a shorter amount of time. Express nails are nail extension that uses gel instead of glue. This makes them more durable and long-lasting. They can also be more curved, like Apres nails, which create an apex when applied. If you’re looking for color on top, you’ll need a gel polish manicure. You’re sure to love the look regardless of which type of express nails you choose!
Benefits of express nails:
- Durable
- Long-lasting
- It can be more curved than other types of extensions
Cons of express nails:
- It can be more expensive than different types of extensions
10. BIAB Nails
BIAB( Builder In A Bottle) hard gel is a great way to fix broken nails, restore chipped corners, or apply for short nail extensions. It comes in a bottle and has a thinner consistency than other forms of BIAB, so the nail technician must create an apex to ensure that the nail is formed correctly and does not break. Because of its delicate nature, BIAB hard gel takes a long time to complete.
As a result, this product is usually used as a natural nail overlay. It’s applied in tiny layers cured with a UV/LED bulb. Temporary heat spikes may occur throughout the curing process.
If you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting way to improve the look of your nails, BIAB hard gel is a great option!
Benefits of BIAB hard gel:
- It can be used to fix broken nails
- It can be used to restore chipped corners
- It can be used to apply short nail extensions
Cons of BIAB hard gel:
- Takes a long time to complete
- It May be more expensive than other types of extensions
11. SNS nails
SNS nails are created by applying a thin layer of powder to the nail and then dipping it in a clear or colored powder. This type of extension is durable and can last up to four weeks. They are also easy to remove, making them a good option for those new to nail extensions.
Benefits of SNS nails:
- Durable
- Easy to remove
- Lasts up to four weeks
Cons of SNS nails:
- It can be more expensive than other types of extensions
12. Shellac nail extensions
Shellac nails are created by applying a thin layer of shellac polish to the nail and then curing it with UV light. This type of extension is durable and can last up to two weeks. They are also easy to remove, making them a good option for those new to nail extensions.
Benefits of shellac nails:
- Durable
- Easy to remove
Cons of shellac nails:
- Can scrape easily
13. Tip extensions
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Tip extensions are created by applying a thin layer of acrylic or gel to the nail and then attaching a tip to the end. This type of extension is durable and can last up to two weeks. They are also easy to remove, making them a good option for those new to nail extensions.
Benefits of tip extensions:
- Durable
- Easy to remove
Cons of tip extensions:
- It can be more expensive than other types of extensions
Last Thoughts
Nail extensions are popular because they look great and can last for weeks at a time. But how do you choose which type to get? Every artist has their own preference, so it’s best to opt for the system with which the artist is most familiar. Trying out different types until you find one that works for you is the best way. You may be allergic to one product but not another or see that your nails hold acrylics better than any other type. Experimenting is the key to finding the perfect nail extension for you.
If you’re unsure what to choose when it comes to your nails, your technician can do many different things for you.
Here are some of the most popular options:
- If you want to add extra length and pizzazz to your nails, go for acrylics. Acrylic nails can be lengthened to extreme lengths and look great with encapsulated glitter designs.
- If you’re looking for a more natural look, go for hard gel nails. Hard gel nails are lighter than acrylic nails and look more like natural ones.
- If you want the best of both worlds, go for acrygel nails. Acrygel nails have the length and durability of acrylic nails, but they also have a natural look.
- If you want to strengthen your natural nails without adding length, go for BIAB nails. BIAB stands for buffered aluminum hydroxide borosilicate, which strengthens your natural nails without making them longer.
- If you’re allergic to Gel Polish or you don’t like the use of UV/LED lamps, go for dip powder nails. Dip powder nails don’t require a UV/LED lamp and don’t cause allergies as Gel Polish can.
- If you have a broken nail that needs to stay in place until your next appointment, go for silk wrap nails. Silk wrap nails are a temporary solution that will keep your broken nail in place until your next meeting.
No matter what type of nail enhancement you choose, make sure to use cuticle oil at least twice a day and get regular nail appointments to maintain the beautiful look of your hands.
