So many of us love splashing vibrant colors and bejewelling our gorgeous long nails. And for those who suffer mishaps of broken nails, there are always charming extensions that you can try. Nail extensions have evolved quite well since their emergence in the market, thanks to the vast user base. From spending hours at a salon with a jelly-like powder settling on the nails to just a quick clip-on, experiencing the innovations in nail extensions has been quite fun.
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The latest member of this innovation block is gel extensions. In fact, most of us have heard and used gel nail colors that are practically a revolution in manicure. But what exactly are gel extensions? Here we present five essential facts about gel extensions that you should know if you plan to try this fun art for your nails.
- Nail Extensions Give You A Light Finish
Acrylics were the most commonly used type before gel extensions. Although both types deliver a similar look and finish, gel nails are certainly lighter in comparison, and the process of creating gel nails is also a more straightforward comparison. While acrylics require molding the mixture of the polymer powder and monomer liquid, which could be pretty messy, gels come in accessible semiliquid structures that are hassle-free and easy to work with. The substance is much lighter, so your final finish feels more fluid and natural rather than rigid.
Also, while gel nails are set well, they are still flexible, reducing the risk of damage in accidental strain application. They are also relatively easy to shape and file than acrylic extensions.
- Nail Extensions Harden Over Time
Gel extensions are available in both pre-shaped and fluid-to-shape options. Pre-shaped involves using bond, primer, and gel to create the extension. Building them on the nails involves preparation steps such as filing, buffing, and cleaning, which creates the form for the extension to set underneath. The gel application then occurs carefully and is ready to set. The rest of the process involves regular manicures where you can use classic solid colors and experiment with nail arts.
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However, the most important and unique step of gel extensions is using UV light in between the gel application steps to ensure that the product sets well in the form. UV light plays a crucial role in the curing process that solidifies the gel to capture the form of the nail. It also means that natural light exposure daily will technically cure your nails much after the manicure.
- Nail Extensions May Last Longer
The typical timeline for gel extensions is similar to that of acrylic nails- both last for two weeks. But the marker is based on the average growth rate of nails on an individual and the type of nail you opt for. For example, oily claws tend to create an issue with longevity. Individuals witness that the extension comes off sooner. For some people, a gel extension may last up to four or five weeks.
Yet, professionals suggest that going beyond the three-week without a fill may affect the results and your natural nails. Although the finish may still look intact, it may start to restrict the natural growth of your nails which could be severely damaging. Furthermore, it is also essential to watch out for how far these extensions grow over the nail bed as the intensity of damage from breaking or snagging is generally proportional to the length.
- Nail Extensions Are Easy To Remove
Gel extensions are relatively easy to remove, which is one of the reasons behind their popularity. The general steps for removal are filing the top layers of the extension and dipping the nail in acetone to soak off the remaining parts. The complete process is gentle and typically quick simultaneously. In the case of pre-shaped nails, the time required for filing is also significantly less as the gel is comparatively softer.
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Although this process is easy and economical to follow at home, however, professionals recommend going to a nail salon for the removal process. The primary reason behind this is that, as discussed, gel extensions harden over time. So, the removal may require professional work to avoid damaging the natural nails. Additionally, following up the process with some nail care steps, such as massaging with cuticle oil, is necessary for maintenance and taking care of the nails from beyond damage.
- Nail Extensions Are Safe
One of the most common questions that arise about extensions is – are they safe? Gel extensions, in general, are lighter on the nails, easy to apply and remove and involve less damaging processes. That said, regular use of extensions may begin to affect the natural firmness of the nails, and therefore taking breaks between the sessions is crucial.
Overall, gel extensions are durable and flexible, making them practical for our everyday lives. Remember, it’s crucial to get the nails done by professionals with the proper equipment and good quality products to avoid infections or damage to your natural nails.
Conclusion
Nail extensions extend the overall length of your nails that also looks realistic. And that is why choosing extensions like gel could help you flaunt flawless nails anytime, anywhere. Keep these facts about gel extensions in mind while choosing to have fun with gorgeous nails.
