Nail extensions are typically made using either acrylic or gel products, which are applied over the natural nail to add length and strength.
Here's a breakdown of the process for each method:
Acrylic Nail Extensions
Acrylic extensions involve a chemical reaction between a liquid monomer and a powder polymer. Here's the process:
- Preparation: The natural nails are prepped by gently buffing the surface, cleaning, and dehydrating them. This ensures proper adhesion.
- Application: A bead of acrylic is formed by dipping a brush into the liquid monomer and then into the powder polymer. This creates a pliable mixture.
- Sculpting: The technician sculpts the acrylic bead onto the nail, either directly onto the natural nail (as an overlay) or onto a nail form or tip to create the desired length and shape.
- Hardening: The acrylic hardens as the monomer and polymer react, creating a strong and durable extension.
- Filing and Shaping: Once hardened, the acrylic is filed and shaped to refine the look and create a smooth surface.
- Finishing: The nails are buffed, and a top coat is applied for shine and protection.
Gel Nail Extensions
Gel extensions use a gel-based product that hardens under UV or LED light. There are different types of gel, including hard gels and soft gels.
- Preparation: Similar to acrylics, the natural nails are prepped by buffing, cleaning, and dehydrating.
- Application: Gel is applied to the natural nail or over a tip or form.
- Curing: The gel is then cured under a UV or LED lamp, which hardens the gel. This process is repeated in layers to build strength and thickness.
- Shaping and Filing: Once cured, the gel extensions are filed and shaped to the desired look.
- Finishing: A top coat is applied and cured to provide shine and protection.
Key Differences between Acrylic and Gel
| Feature | Acrylic | Gel |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Liquid monomer and powder polymer | Gel (various types, including hard and soft) |
| Hardening | Air dries (chemical reaction) | Cured under UV/LED light |
| Odor | Strong odor | Little to no odor |
| Flexibility | Less flexible | More flexible |
| Removal | Requires soaking in acetone | Can be soaked off or filed off, depending on the type of gel |
| Overall Durability | Very durable | Durable, but can be less resistant to impact than acrylic |
In summary, nail extensions are made by applying and shaping either acrylic or gel products onto the natural nail to add length and strength, followed by filing, shaping, and finishing to achieve the desired look.
