Information on Fake Nails
Applying fake nails is one way to maintain a well-groomed appearance. The ease and convenience of fake nails, however, is balanced by some considerations to keep your skin and natural nails healthy and strong. Does this Spark an idea?
-
History
-
Fake nails come in various lengths, colors and designs. It is believed that a noblewoman of China grew her nails to extraordinary lengths in order to ensure she was not seen as a "commoner." Following the concept, Egyptian women wore the decorative nail extensions in materials made from ivory and gold. The reasons are identical; to show off wealth and status. Today, women of any description wear them for decoration and grooming.
Types
-
Well groomed nails for everyday use. Two common types of fake nails are acrylic and gel. According to an article from NailsGuide.com, "People who will see them on you will not be able to see the difference. They both look really natural and beautiful." The acrylic nail is pasted onto your own nail and is made up of a powder and liquid mix that is comprised of ingredients that do no harm to skin. Gel nails are applied to your existing nail as well but do not contain harsh chemicals. According to NailsGuide.com, "They are the most efficient artificial nails that are specifically designed and made in order to stick and stay stuck firmly onto your own natural nails."
-
Features of Acrylic
-
Acrylic nails contain non-harmful chemicals. Acrylic nails are made to feel and look natural and are used with or without a nail tip for extension. On average they tend to last two weeks depending upon how they are cared for. They can be any length or painted any color. While the liquid mixture used for the nails can be expensive, different and cheaper methods are available.
Features of Gel
-
Gels nails are more natural and provide more of a shine. Gel nails are thin and clear. They are placed over the existing nail and are flexible as well as non-discoloring. This type of nail is meant to be a long-term solution rather than a quick fix. Gels need to be applied professionally because of the use of a U-V light that cures the nail during application.
Effects
-
There are many options. Acrylics are generally safe and won't harm your existing nail.
Bad acrylic resin reaction leads to redness, swelling and even allergic reaction. If the nail becomes separated from the nail bed, root damage may occur. In cases, improper care leads to water seeping under the nail, creating a fungus.
The benefits of gel nails are that they are odorless, natural, and tend to have more of a shine.
One of the disadvantages of gels is that they are more expensive and should only be done by a nail technician. Finding an experienced technician is more difficult because according to Nailsplash.com, "gels are harder to master." therefore requiring more training or retraining.
Considerations
-
At-Home Manicures Manicures are also an option if you cannot afford or maintain fake nails. They require no use of toxic glue and are relatively easy to maintain at home. Manicures are not as expensive as artificial nails and come in styles like the popular French manicure.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit manicuring fingernails in beauty salon image by Alena Yakusheva from Fotolia.com hand with long acrylic nails showing victory sign image by Lev Dolgatshjov from Fotolia.com business hands image by vb_photo from Fotolia.com chemical test tubes image by Oleg Verbitsky from Fotolia.com natural background image by Vaida from Fotolia.com water manicure image by Leticia Wilson from Fotolia.com