Nail extensions today are one of the most popular procedures in beauty salons. Using artificial material, you can create new nails of absolutely any shape and length, skillfully hide many imperfections of natural nails, the consequences of injuries and deformations. The extension takes place using special polymer materials - acrylic and gel. Since the nail industry is developing very rapidly, new types of materials, various accessories and equipment for extensions are constantly entering the markets, and new technologies are being created. The choice is so great that it has become available to everyone. Therefore, today, at little expense, you can learn how to do nail extensions at home yourself. We will discuss how to do nail extensions at home in this article.
How did the idea of nail extension technology come about?
For the first time, the idea that it was possible to use artificial material for nails came to the mind of Frederik Slek. As a dentist, he severely injured his finger while working in his garage, breaking a nail. In order to somehow correct the situation and be able to continue working, he treated the wound, placed a piece of foil under the damaged nail and applied acrylic paste for dental fillings on top of it. This is how the world's first nail extensions were carried out at home. Later, Frederick Slack patented his invention and became the founder of the famous NSI brand. Today his company is one of the leaders among manufacturers of all kinds of materials for nail extensions.
What is the difference between gel and acrylic?
Many people often wonder - which is better, gel or acrylic? To answer this question, you must first understand how these two materials differ from each other. Acrylic is a polymer powder that must be mixed with a special liquid - a monomer. The resulting mass hardens quite quickly in air (about 30 seconds). During this time, the master has the opportunity to manipulate the acrylic, giving it the required form on the nail. After hardening, it is processed and polished with files of different abrasiveness. This material is very strong, with misuse can crack easily. However, its advantage is that acrylic nails can be easily repaired. A significant disadvantage of the material is the pungent odor of the monomer. Because of this, acrylic extension technology somewhat lost its popularity after the advent of gel.
A gel is a ready-made combination of polymers and monomer with the addition of photocells, the hardening of which is possible only under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. This material is more flexible than acrylic, and nails made with gel also look very natural. He doesn't have unpleasant odor, and it is very easy to use. However, to work with the gel, an ultraviolet lamp is required; the more powerful, the better. Among the disadvantages of the gel, one can only name the release of heat during the photochemical reaction. Sometimes this reaction causes a burning sensation on the nails, but it goes away very quickly.
Also, both materials differ in the method of removal. If the gel can only be cut off from the nails, then acrylic is easily dissolved with the help of acetone liquid.
Nail extensions at home without gel and acrylic are impossible. Knowing all the differences and features of each material, you can choose exactly the one that suits or likes most.
Forms or types?
In order to grow nails, masters use devices such as forms and tips. They are special paper stencils that are attached end-to-end to the nail. Gel or acrylic is laid on top of them. Once the new nail is ready, the mold is removed and the material is modified to the desired length. The forms are very easy to use, but you need to know how to use them correctly. Since each client's nail can be different from each other, the base of the form can be adjusted individually to each of them, trimming with nail scissors.
Tips are ready-made plastic nails that are attached to natural nails using special glue. Some clients do not like tips, believing that they are short-lived and break easily. However, they don't take into account the fact that it's just different technologies, and each has its own characteristics. With the help of tips you can extend nails where it would be impossible with the help of forms. For example, if a person has a too small nail bed, then placing a mold under the nail will not work. Tips in this situation will be much more effective. It will help visually lengthen the nail plate, hiding all the imperfections of the natural nail.
If you do nail extensions at home with gel on tips, French - a favorite type of manicure by many, it turns out ideal for a very a short time. You just need to treat your nails and glue white French tips to the ends of your natural nails. They can be cut to the required length, giving the desired shape. Then all nails are completely covered with several layers of transparent gel.
In order to carry out nail extensions at home, you can use both tips and forms. With a little practice you can master both methods fairly quickly.
Transition of craftsmen to work from home
There is a category of craftsmen who want to work independently, some prefer to work from home altogether. Many clients believe that such work should be paid much lower. However, this is a misconception, since the master’s costs for high-quality drugs and equipment, as well as his skill and professionalism, do not decrease at all. Professional craftsmen do not stop improving their skills, constantly attending exhibitions and training seminars. Thus, nail extensions at home are performed by the same professional who chose this form of work due to certain circumstances.
Independent clients
Many clients, looking at the work of manicurists in a beauty salon, often think that they want to try to carry out this procedure themselves. Well, nothing is impossible. However, you should understand in advance: in order to do the work efficiently and correctly, thorough preparation is necessary. You will also need to purchase everything necessary tools and materials. It is unlikely that you will be able to save money. High-quality materials are always expensive. It is recommended to study everything available techniques before you start doing gel nail extensions at home. A video for beginners will help you see the whole process from start to finish. The video clearly and clearly shows each step, provides clear instructions and recommendations on the order of priority of materials used, and so on. So, having mastered the video tutorials, you can do nail extensions at home. There are a lot of photos of finished nails on the Internet; they will help you find your idea for the shape and future design.
Now you can go shopping at a specialty store. You will need several types of gel or acrylic, brushes, an ultraviolet lamp, a set of forms or tips, and auxiliary liquids that prepare the nail for extensions. Once you have purchased everything you need, you can do nail extensions at home. There are a lot of photos of finished nails on the Internet. They will also allow you to find your own idea for the shape and future design.
How to do nail extensions at home
So, let's begin. First of all, you need to clean your hands and nails. You can get a manicure. Some masters advise doing a trim manicure the day before extensions. This will help avoid saturation of the nail plate with moisture, which in the near future may cause the artificial material to peel off. But if you have purchased all the necessary preparatory materials(degreasers, dehydrators, primer), then there is no reason to worry.
After the manicure procedure, the shine is removed from the surface of the nail plate, and the nails are treated with a dehydrator. If you have decided to get nail extensions using forms, now is the time to install them. It is recommended to work with only one hand. Once you've done all the nails on one hand, move on to working on the other hand. Now a primer is applied to the nails, which should dry for one minute.
Using a transparent gel, a base is created, which is carefully laid out on the surface of the nail. Try to use the material sparingly and immediately distribute the gel correctly. This will avoid long filing times and waste of material.
Each layer of gel is dried in an ultraviolet lamp for 2 minutes.
When following extension technology, it is important to ensure the creation of the correct nail architecture. A correctly modeled nail differs little in appearance from a natural one.
After all layers of gel have dried, the nails need to be filed. There is a special scheme for this. By filing the nails along it, they can be made identical, symmetrical, of the desired shape and thickness.
The last step to complete nail extensions at home is to apply the topcoat. It will give your nails an amazing shine and will also protect new nails from scratches and chips.
Methods for removing artificial nails
You can find out about this at special courses on extensions, as well as from video tutorials and instructions shared by masters on the Internet. In order to remove artificial material safely and with minimal damage to natural nails, you should know the characteristics of each material.
The gel can only be cut off with a file. It is not soluble. When cutting off the gel, you must be careful not to injure the natural nail.
Acrylic, on the contrary, is very difficult to saw off, but dissolves perfectly with the help of acetone-containing liquids. It is enough to wet a small piece of cotton wool, apply it to the nail, wrapping it in foil for 15 minutes. After this, the acrylic softens to such a state that it can easily be removed from the nail without any damage.
Beauty salons offer a wide range of services, including gel and acrylic nail extensions. Every self-respecting girl should take care of her hands, regardless of whether she works or does household chores. If a lady gets her nails done in a salon, she is forced to visit a specialist every 3 weeks, because the nail plate grows quickly and correction becomes necessary. It is important to learn how to carry out the procedure yourself to avoid unnecessary expenses and loss of time.
Nail extension methods
Craftsmen use tips and forms to work with materials.
Extensions with tips
They are made of plastic and are an elongated plate that is attached with glue to the edge of the original nail. Next, gel or acrylic is applied, the surface is sanded and you can begin to create a design. Tips are convenient because they involve only the edge of the nail, as a result of which the impact on the natural plate is minimized. The material is available in various lengths and shapes, which allows you to short time pick up suitable option. After attaching the plate to the nail, it is asked right size, and the excess is cut off with a special tip cutter.
Form extensions
The material for work is made of a thick paper base, which is covered with polyethylene on top. The outer part is equipped with a sticky layer that holds the shape on the natural nail and prevents it from coming off until the master finishes the work. The outer side also does not allow the material to stick or be absorbed into its surface. As a rule, the forms are disposable; there are also reusable ones with special clips, but they are not used at all.
When choosing your preferred extension method, consider the length of your own nails. If they are cut to the root and there is no free edge of 1-2 mm, there will be nothing to attach the forms to. Tips, in turn, are not very strong, but the process will go 1.5 times faster.
Features of acrylic nail extensions
Initially, acrylic was used exclusively by dentists for dental implantation and repair; nowadays, masters have resorted to this method in cosmetology. Acrylic is a combination of liquid crystals (liquids) and loose powder. The liquid interacts with oxygen, as a result of which the material hardens and a strong layer is formed.
Acrylic is cloudy, so an aquarium design is immediately out of the question; for these purposes it is better to choose a gel. However, if you prefer gel, you can forget about ideal lines and a clear contour, since this advantage belongs to acrylic. If you apply this method in an apartment or in a closed, unventilated space, you will go crazy from the smell of the material.
It's all about the monometer, which is used in extensions using this technology. Its toxic and volatile smell spreads throughout the room in an instant. If you choose the acrylic method, allocate yourself a separate room, ventilate it thoroughly, close the door and do not allow children or pets to enter there.
This direction appeared not so long ago, but has already taken place of honor in the hearts of their owners. As a rule, the gel consists exclusively of natural polymers, as a result of which it is harmless to nails. Its composition most often includes coniferous tree resin, so the artificial turf is non-toxic and resistant to various factors.
The gel is particularly strong and durable; the process does not stand still and manufacturers have begun to produce a composition with a denser consistency. The material will not spread on the native nail, which allows the beginner to carry out the procedure carefully and efficiently. The gel does not have a sharp and repulsive odor, it does not harden in a few minutes like acrylic, which is an undeniable advantage of this technology.
Required tools and materials
- UV lamp with a power of 36 watts.
- Cuticle spatula. Choose a tool made of orange wood; this material is gentler on the skin, it is soft and environmentally friendly.
- Disinfectant. A regular antiseptic is suitable for hands; instruments can be boiled and then treated with alcohol. If these options are not suitable, buy “Kutasept” for hands and “Bacillol” for tools.
- Files. Abrasiveness of tools for acrylic nails- 80/100, for gel - 100/120. The higher the indicator, the softer the nail file. You will also need a glass file for natural nails.
- Dehydrator is a special liquid composition designed for degreasing natural nails.
- Brushes. All of them must be natural, artificial ones leave lint on the gel or acrylic, then it is impossible to remove it. You will need a round brush for applying acrylic and a flat brush for gel.
- Forms or types. The materials must come with glue, don't use it, it's bad. Buy glue separately for each extension method.
- Monometer - special liquid, which is required only for acrylic nail extensions.
- Tweezers are only needed for the forms to grab and attach them.
- Primer is a means for treating the natural nail plate, which ensures a strong connection with the artificial nail.
- Finish - the product gives the extended nails shine; it is needed for both acrylic and gel.
- Liquid to remove the sticky layer with the final result.
- Special construction gel or acrylic powder; the choice is made in favor of one or another extension technology.
- A tip cutter is needed if the extension is made using tips.
Preparing nails for extensions
Important: if you have fungus or cracks on your nails, you should not start the procedure.
Disinfect your hands. Take an orange spatula and move the cuticle upwards, but do not cut. Use a glass file to file down the top layer of your nail, moving from the center to the edge. You need to make the surface of the plate matte.
Finish the edge of the nail, do not make it too sharp or, on the contrary, square, bring the shape to a soft oval. Remove the resulting dust, then coat the nail with primer.
- Take the forms and secure them to your nails, connecting the ends together. Inject material under the plate, not onto it. Cover your nail with gel along with the form. Look at the scale, remember which division you stopped at, so that you can next nails bring the gel to the same length.
- After applying the first coat, place your nail in the lamp for 45 seconds. For your convenience, first extend four fingers, treat them and dry them thoroughly, and after them move on to extensions. thumb. When the layer has dried, take a file with 100/120 abrasiveness and begin filing the surface.
- Remove the dust with a napkin and proceed to the second, denser layer. Apply the gel and turn your palm up so that the material spreads evenly over the plate and does not slide onto the cuticle. Dry the layer for 2 minutes.
- Detach the forms from the extended nail. Take the sticky layer remover, apply it to a cotton swab and walk over the surface. Then file the second layer until matte.
- Apply finish and let dry for 1 minute. If you have artistic talent, you can paint your nails. If such a gift is not available, cover the plate with ordinary varnish in 2 layers, dry each of them for 40 seconds. Treat the cuticle with oil and do not wet your hands for 2.5 hours.
- Apply glue to the inside of the tip and glue it to the edge of the nail. Hold for 5 seconds to dry. Take a tip cutter and adjust the length. Using a glass file, align the border between the tip and the natural nail, and also adjust the edge of the artificial plate.
- Place the gel on the brush and cover your nail with it, moving from the cuticle down. Let the gel dry in the lamp, hold your finger there for 2 minutes. Make the next layer, but on the entire surface of the natural and artificial nail, dry for 1.5 minutes.
- Take liquid to remove the sticky layer that has formed after polymerization. Apply it to a cotton pad and wipe the nail. Use a 100/120 nail file to level the surface, then apply the finish. Make a drawing or paint with a plain varnish in 2 layers. Dry in a lamp for 2 minutes.
Gel nail correction
- Take a spatula and push back the cuticle. Use a file 80/100 to remove 2/3 of the entire gel.
- File down your overgrown nail, smoothing out the area where it comes into contact with the gel coat.
- Disinfect your hands. Apply primer to the nail and place it in the lamp for 1 minute.
- Make a layer of gel, as with extensions, dry for 1.5 minutes and apply a second one, also dry it.
- Degrease the surface with a dehydrator, cover with finish and place in a lamp for 2 minutes. Give your nails the desired shape.
Acrylic nail extensions on forms
- Glue the shape, bringing the ends together. Place the material under your nail.
- Pour the liquid into a container and soak the brush in it. Wring it out in a convenient way, start scooping up the powder to make a ball. Make sure to keep it dry, otherwise the acrylic will bleed onto your nail. Let the liquid absorb into the powder and begin the procedure.
- Begin to gently roll the ball into the shape and onto your own nail, without touching the cuticle. If the layer is too thin, repeat the maneuver. After all layers are ready, dry your nails, remove the form with tweezers and file the edge to the desired length. Polish the surface with an 80/100 file, apply the finish and dry in a lamp for 2 minutes. Apply 2 layers of regular varnish and dry for 30 seconds each.
- Take the tip and apply glue to the inner surface, then immediately attach it to the tip own nail. Hold for 10 seconds so that the tip adheres to the natural plate.
- Using an 80/100 file, file away all the irregularities on the surface where the tip meets your nail. Also at this stage, give the desired shape and cut off the artificial edge with a tip cutter if it is too long. Cover the entire length of the nail with primer.
- Dip the brush into the liquid, squeeze it out and dip it into the modeling powder. Apply the composition to the nail along with the tip and wait until the acrylic hardens. Run a file over the surface, making it smooth without any bumps or depressions. Apply the finish, then send the nails to dry in the lamp for 2 minutes. Make a design or cover with 2 layers of varnish, dry for 30 seconds.
Correction of acrylic nails
- Disinfect your hands, remove the top layer of varnish with a liquid that does not contain acetone.
- Push back the cuticle with an orange stick. Completely file off the free edge of the artificial nail, and the entire surface of the plate by 70%.
- Using a glass file, polish your overgrown nail to a matte finish.
- Treat the nail with a dehydrator and cover it with primer.
- Begin modeling by applying acrylic with a brush, as with extensions, being careful not to get it on the cuticle.
- Cover with finish and place your finger in the lamp for 2 minutes.
- Consult your doctor to see if you have any contraindications to using gel, acrylic, dehydrator, primer or other products. It is important to find out this before you begin the procedure.
- Nail extensions are contraindicated for women and girls with diabetes mellitus, stomach diseases and those who have recently taken antibiotics.
- Be sure to take breaks while wearing artificial turf. Let your nails rest at least once every 2 months.
- Nail extensions can lead to cracks and degeneration of the natural plate. There is also a high risk of infection, so always disinfect tools before starting work.
- Apply cuticles more often special oil, make soda baths (1 tablespoon of soda per 250 ml of water).
Agree, it’s not difficult to grow your nails at home. It is important to control the process and pay attention to possible little things. Choose the appropriate extension option, decide on the materials and go ahead to conquer heights. Good luck!
Video: video instructions for acrylic nail extensions
Every young lady dreams of having perfect manicure, but not everyone knows how to do it. False nails will be an ideal option for those beauties who want to get a magnificent manicure with an equally wonderful design in a short time. We will look at how to make false nails at home with your own hands in this article.
Differences between overhead tips
Nowadays, such products are presented in a varied assortment. You need to know how the tips differ from each other in order to make the right choice:
- design. They can be plain or have a pattern;
- form. False nails are produced in various shapes and lengths. You can purchase short plastic false nails and long plates. You can always buy tips that match the natural shape of your nail plate. If you are used to long nails, short false nails, for example, with a French manicure, will look much more attractive. Short false nails, by the way, are more comfortable;
- gluing method. Tips can have an adhesive layer on the back of the plate or be glued by applying liquid glue to them;
- quality. Product cost and natural look The results obtained will depend on the quality of the tips.
False nail design
On sale you can see short false nails with a design or long ones without it.
You can apply it yourself to transparent or beige tips varnish coating any color. Varnish 
You apply as if you were painting your natural nails. In this case, the layer is applied evenly, and the color becomes saturated. To make your manicure look brighter, you can draw a flower or write a word, for example, kiss.
The design of tips is very diverse. Any idea can be implemented on false nails: from all kinds of prints, patterns to single-color nails decorated with sparkles or rhinestones. You can get French manicure. In addition, short false nails will look more natural.
Let us note once again that for the most natural look, you should buy short artificial false nails that do not have a design, and apply the varnish yourself so that the manicure looks natural.
A wide range of sets for gluing nails is presented trademarks Maybelline and L'Oreal. Both short and long false nails with available products can be ordered online or purchased by going to a specialized store.
How to glue the plates?
It is necessary to prepare for the manipulation in order to get the expected result. First, remove the remnants of the old varnish. Use a file to smooth out the surface of the plate. After that, we take manicure accessories, tips and a substance for gluing. If you plan to do a manicure with overlays once, then buy tips that have a self-adhesive base.
How long will it take? The whole procedure will take no more than 10 minutes, and your hands will be beautiful and well-groomed. And for gluing plates for a long time, you better study step by step description process.
Pasting instructions:
- we decide on the shape of the plate. You should know that nails are divided into three types: classic, flat and with a pronounced bend.
- put it on workplace pads and a tube of special glue. The main thing is to eliminate the use of superglue in order to subsequently avoid problems with removing the plates. We prepare our hands: wash, dry, remove the remnants of the previous coating, remove the cuticle. It is important to remember that your nails should be short. You should trace the outlines of both hands on paper. If you place short tips or false nails on the painted fingers, then these pictures will help you follow the order of gluing;
- on back side We apply glue to the tips if they are not self-adhesive. Place the plate on the surface of the nail and press lightly for 10 seconds. And so on every nail.
Doing a false manicure at home is not at all difficult. Note that false nails can also be used for pedicures.
How to remove tips?
You should not use artificial tips for a long time - plastic tips are harmful. If you use tips systematically, allow your nail plates to rest so that they look healthy.
Removing false nails is also quite easy. To do this, you need to hold your hands in hot water for 15 minutes. As a result, the glue will dissolve, and after the lining can be easily removed. If the pad is holding tight, place your finger in nail polish remover. You can also easily remove the plates. The remaining adhesive can be easily removed using nail polish remover.
Today, reusable false nails have every right to be in the cosmetic bag of all representatives of the fair sex.
The main thing is not to forget that plastic overlays should only be glued to healthy nail plates.
IN modern world It’s hard to find a girl who hasn’t tried wearing extended nails at least once in her life. Most of the fair sex can afford a salon manicure, but what about those who do not have the opportunity to get their nails done by a specialist? There is a way out and this is nail extensions at home.
How to learn extensions yourself?
Acrylic extensions
Artificial nails today are an incredibly popular procedure among fashionistas, as it allows you to always have beautiful nails even for those girls whose hair is naturally weak and brittle. In addition, it is easier to care for extended nails than real ones, which is also very much appreciated by girls and makes false products even more in demand.
A manicure created by a specialist is always attractive and original, but how can you do nail extensions at home without any experience, and so that the result is excellent? Many beauties believe that this procedure is beyond the capabilities of an ordinary girl, and can be performed only by completing special training courses or with the help of many years of training.
In fact, everything is quite simple: absolutely any lady can do her own nail extensions. To do this, it is enough to have on hand necessary accessories, a little patience and a lot of imagination.
Workplace equipment
A conveniently located workplace, where everything you need is readily available is the first rule for those who plan to do their own nail extensions at home. The work area should not be cluttered with unnecessary items; it must have good lighting, a comfortable chair or armchair and a table area that can easily accommodate everything that is needed for work.
Tools and materials
The next point that a girl who doesn’t know how to learn how to do nail extensions at home should pay attention to is the availability of high-quality tools and materials for the job. Tools include:
- ultraviolet lamp;
- cuticle remover;
- file to give nails the desired shape;
- glue;
- forms or types;
- natural drop-shaped or artificial flat brush for extensions;
- tweezers - when using forms;
- cuticle softening oil;
- buff or grinder;
- dust removal brush;
- decorations – feathers, rhinestones, stickers, etc.
Preparatory liquid
Acrylic Powder
Construction gel
A set for nail extensions at home consists of the following materials:
- disinfectants – for hands and instruments;
- primer;
- construction gel;
- dehydrator;
- acrylic Powder;
- bonder;
- monomer;
- top coating;
- a means to remove the sticky layer (if necessary).
Sticky layer remover
An ultraviolet lamp is useful in any case, regardless of whether it is acrylic, with biogel or gel nails planned to increase. To dry the top coat, a device with one 9 W bulb will be sufficient.
If you plan to use colored gel polishes or model a French design, then you should choose a more powerful lamp, for example, with 4 light elements with a power of 37 W. It is recommended to use a file for acrylic with a grit of about 80 grit; to work with gel you will need a tool with a grit of about 100 grit.
How to extend nails for yourself or someone else without damaging the structure of real nails? The fact is that natural nail when placed on it artificial form or the tips lose the ability to “breathe”. In this layer there is an excellent chance for bacteria, which quickly begin to multiply and spoil the surface of the natural plate. That is why, after removing decorative items, the real nail often turns out to be deformed and can take several years to recover.
Time required for build-up
The procedure for applying decorative nails takes about 3-4 hours. It is important to take this into account and approach the matter without haste, since nails extended “on the run” will lose their presentable appearance. appearance and will make a repulsive impression.
Various extension methods
There are several common methods of decorative nail extensions: false, acrylic, gel. Recently, extensions using biogel have also become popular. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, takes a different amount of time to implement and is suitable for certain fashionistas.
How to grow your nails yourself quickly and without much money or time? To do this, you can choose false nails. They are plastic tips sold complete with glue and instructions for use. The shape of such products cannot be changed; moreover, if done carelessly, such a manicure looks extremely unattractive. In addition, without sufficient experience in applying tips, it is not always possible for everyone to glue them smoothly. It should be noted that false nails that are too long will peel off faster than the shortened version, so before applying such tips, you need to reduce their length to medium.
How to quickly grow nails at home if they are false? Working with them is not particularly difficult: you need to give the decorative plates the desired length (or leave it the same), drop glue into the center of the natural nail, distribute it over the entire surface, and then apply a suitable tip on top for 10 seconds. glue, you can start covering your nails with the varnish you like, gluing stickers, rhinestones, etc. on them.
If false nails are too simple and not always a high-quality result of extensions, then acrylic ones look more original, neat and last much longer on the hands. How can you grow your nails at home using acrylic?
To do this you will need the following components:
- acrylic powder (can have different colors);
- acrylic liquid (monomer or liquid);
- primer - a product that increases the bond between an artificial plate and a natural one;
- degreaser;
- solvent;
- files;
- grinding;
- forceps;
- glue;
- brush.
Step-by-step photo of nail extensions at home using acrylic on tips:
Gel nails
Gel nails are one of the most popular types artificial nails. The technique of gel nail extensions at home is a little more painstaking than the acrylic extension technique, but it also does not present any particular difficulties. The composition of the components that will be required to create beauty from the gel using forms:
How to do gel nail extensions at home using forms yourself? Everything is very simple if you don’t rush anywhere and approach the procedure with complete seriousness and responsibility.
Where to learn extensions?
If you don’t know how to extend your nails with gel at home, videos, photo reports and even online training courses will come to your aid. Here you will be taught how to prepare your nails for extensions, what shape to choose, what type of extension to use, etc.
At the bottom of the article you can watch a video on how to extend gel nails yourself at home. There are also materials on acrylic nail extensions.
Extending nails at home is not that difficult. All you need is regular practice, but in return - a spectacular manicure. It’s probably worth starting with contraindications, in order to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Contraindications
IN following cases It is better to avoid nail extensions:
hormonal disorders,
undergoing a course of chemotherapy.
diabetes,
problems with the cardiovascular system,
poor blood circulation,
allergy to the materials used during extensions,
Graves' disease,
If you are currently taking antibiotics, then you should also avoid extensions. Artificial nails simply won't hold up.
As for pregnancy, it is not a contraindication, but, being in this position, it is important to comply with a number of requirements:
Extend nails in a ventilated area,
Use exclusively high-quality and new materials,
Rinse your nose with mineral water. This will help get rid of dust particles and other substances that could enter the respiratory tract during work and cause allergies.
Also, in the following cases, you should not extend your nails, as they will not only peel off, but will also harm your nails:
if your nails are injured,
if you have a bruise under the nail plate,
you have a fungus or viral disease.
If you are the owner of such a feature of the body as increased humidity of the hands, then get ready for the fact that new nails will often peel off. This, of course, in general, is not a contraindication, but it will cause trouble.
And before you begin the extension procedure itself, it would be a good idea to read the instructions that will help you avoid possible mistakes.
Nail extensions should be done taking into account contraindications
Reminder for nail extensions
If you are planning to get your nails done, follow these three simple rules:
Before the procedure, it is necessary to prepare the nail plate and remove the cuticle;
There is no need to cut your nails at the root. Ideally, they should be one or two millimeters longer;
On the day of the procedure, you should not take hot baths, swim in the pool, or go to the bathhouse or sauna.
What can you do and what can’t you do? A small reminder.
Use hand products after extensions with caution, as some of them can peel your nails.
If delamination occurs, there is no need to “pick” the nail. It won't get any better. Only correction will help.
After extensions, you need to nourish and moisturize the skin around the nails for several days (ideally in the morning and evening).
Got your nails done? Great. Now don't forget about correction. It should be done regularly (every two to four weeks).
If this is your first experience with extensions, then it is better to choose a short length.
Artificial nails are not a method for opening corks, bottles and everything else. This is a decoration first and foremost.
Housework (washing floors, dishes) is best done with gloves or protective equipment.
Use knives, graters, etc. carefully, as if you are not careful, you can at least scratch the coating; in the worst case, you will simply break or cut off the artificial nail.
If you are not careful when the fire is close, your nails may become covered in soot and burn.
The area under the nails should not be cleaned with sharp objects. In this case, it is better to use a soapy toothbrush.
You are familiar with what is possible and what is not, therefore, you can proceed to the main thing.
The nail plate must be prepared for extensions
Technologies used
There are two main materials used for extensions:
The difference between these two materials is the curing process. Acrylic is converted into a solid polymer by mixing powder and monomer, and the gel consists of these two components. The gel has liquid form, hardens only under ultraviolet rays.
If you are going to extend your nails for the first time, it is better to use gel. It's easier to work with. But, on the other hand, many professionals prefer acrylic. And all because only with it you can achieve very clear shapes and lines. Alas, using the gel, it is very difficult to obtain such an effect.
Where there are pros, there are always cons. Acrylic has a very pronounced odor, which is not only volatile, but also toxic. It instantly spreads throughout the room. And the gel is simpler in this regard: it does not have such a strong smell, therefore, if there are children in the house, the smell will not harm them.
Nail extensions can be done using forms or tips. The former, by the way, are used less and less. Tips contribute to the rapid process of extension, but you won’t get grace with them.
Extension technology depends on the selected material
What will be needed for the extension procedure?
The essential item is, of course, an ultraviolet lamp. For any extension method it is required. If you use acrylic, then you can use a not too powerful lamp, but for colored gel you will need something more powerful.
What else will you need:
a spatula that will help push back the cuticle;
files (for acrylic - more rigid, and for gel you can use less rigid);
forms (tips), glue;
brushes needed for gel or acrylic;
Materials and preparations that will also be needed:
disinfectants,
liquid for drying the nail plate (or dehydrator),
primer is what helps the natural nail and artificial material adhere,
bonder (for the gel method),
acrylic powder (for acrylic),
construction gel (for gel),
monomer (for acrylic),
finishing coating,
a product that will help remove the sticky layer.
Important! If you still believe the myth that extensions are harmful, then it’s time to dispel it. Gone are the days when harmful and toxic materials were used. All of them have been replaced by high-quality materials that do not damage the nail if all precautions and rules are followed.
Modern materials for nail extensions are absolutely non-toxic
What shape should I give my nails?
If all the tools, materials and other devices have been purchased, then it’s time to start choosing beautiful shape for nails. They are:
classic,
more modern and sophisticated.
TO classic forms include: square, oval, soft square and almond. And to the second type, who does not like routine, but prefers originality: edge, stiletto, bridget, pipe.
Extension to tips
Have you chosen the form? Then it's time to ramp up. Tips are the easiest extension option. If you do everything carefully, then the first time everything will turn out very beautiful and impressive.
The first thing you need to do is disinfect the tools. The next step is preparing the tips. To do this, you need to lay them out in front of you and match each nail according to its approximate shape and size. Next you need to give them shape. For example, a classic square. After this, you need to start preparing the natural plate. You need to take a spatula and push back the cuticle, and use a file to remove the shine of your nail and trim the length. Do everything carefully, because you can damage the nail.
Next, treat your nails with cutasept and dry them with a dehydrator. Now you can stick the tips. Apply the glue carefully a small amount, distribute it evenly. Place the tips on your nails, make sure they are in the correct position, press firmly and hold.
The next stage is the application of bonder and primer (applies to the gel system). Try not to overdry the bonder, as in this case it will not have a positive effect on your nails. Keep your nails under the lamp for no more than two minutes.
Next, the main stage is applying acrylic (or construction gel) to a carefully prepared nail. It is important to form the shape of the nail correctly, because the further convenience and aesthetics of the nail depends on this. The material must be applied evenly, distributed over the entire nail from the center to the edges. If a gel is used, polymerization under ultraviolet rays will be required. This procedure is carried out for each nail, then the sticky layer is removed and the nails are covered with finishing gel and dried under a lamp for two minutes. All is ready!
Extension to forms
Extension onto forms is quite painstaking, unlike tips. But the result is worth it. The preparation is still the same, but instead of tips you need to prepare forms, which are patterns that help create the ideal model for each nail. The form is bent in half, placed under the nail plate, and fixed with a sticky edge.
The material is distributed similarly. By the way, if you use tweezers, the artificial nail can be made thinner and more elegant by squeezing the uncured material on the sides. This is perhaps the only difference between these two technologies.
Caring for artificial nails
Caring for artificial nails is very simple. It will be quite enough if you start rubbing it into the cuticle nourishing oil, the nail itself needs to be covered from time to time clear varnish. By doing these simple procedures, you will have a constantly fresh and well-groomed manicure.
Also try to follow the list of rules below that will help extend the life of your new nails:
Do not remove nail polish with acetone and avoid any products that contain it;
Do not use scissors or clippers, they harm your nails;
Be careful, because the artificial nail is glued to the natural one, therefore, if you damage the artificial one, you also damage the natural one;
Do not expose your nails to temperature changes: sudden movement from cold to hot water, or vice versa, will cause them to break;
If you paint your nails, remember that all polishes must contain gel or acrylic;
Do not forget about correction, because the natural nail, the growth of which will not stop, no matter how much you want it, helps to weaken the artificial one;
The polish lasts longer on artificial nails, but still, let your nails breathe and try not to paint them too often.
Follow these simple rules, and your nails will delight you for a very long time!
Time to take your nails off?
It often happens that your nails lose their original healthy shape after the artificial nails have been removed. They become brittle, weak, and often flake off. But the reason does not lie in the myth that says that nail extensions are harmful and dangerous. The reason for this is improper removal of artificial nails and failure to provide proper care after this procedure. It turns out that many girls are careless with their nails, removing them with files, pliers and other objects and tools that are not at all intended for this.
Therefore, in order to avoid damaged nails, which will then have to be restored for a very long time and persistently, it is imperative that you familiarize yourself with how to properly remove gel and acrylic nails at home.
Removing acrylic nails
First you need to remove the part of the nail plate that protrudes. This is easy to do using nail clippers: you need to carefully trim the nail, but not to the very root, because this can damage the area of skin located under the nail plate.
Next step: remove acrylic nail residues using acetone. An additional advantage will be the availability of a special solvent at home, which is used in professional salons. If not, then let it be acetone. Of course it doesn't count useful substance, but, nevertheless, is the most gentle compared to all other substances suitable for this. Be sure to take steps to protect yourself from inhaling harmful acetone!
What we do next: moisten a cotton swab, place it on the nail, and cover everything with foil. And this must be done with each finger. Leave everything for ten minutes. The acrylic should soften. And then use a soft nail file to remove the softened acrylic.
Removing gel nails
The beginning is the same as in the method described above: the protruding part of the nail should be cut off, but not to the very root. In general, that's all. The gel cannot be removed with acetone, as it simply cannot be softened. It must be carefully removed, but using a file specially adapted for this purpose, intended for processing artificial materials, having about 150 grit.
Using such a nail file, remove the gel from nail plates you can do it in about half an hour without harming your nails. Take your time during the nail removal process. By doing everything slowly and with utmost care, you will preserve your natural nails in its original form.
Another good way care – baths with sea salt. You can cook them at home too. What should be done:
take six tablespoons of salt,
dissolve them in warm water.
The duration of the bath is about fifteen minutes. But the main thing is not duration, but regularity. After taking it, it is important to rub it into your nails nutritious cream or oil.
Taking care of your nails, no matter what they are, is very important. It helps strengthen the nail plate, prevent delamination and breakage, promotes accelerated growth and simply a neat and well-groomed appearance.
When applying nail extensions, you need to remember two things:
about caution
about the preliminary disinfection of manicure sets and other tools.
