There are different types of fake nails and it’s very important for all women to know about them.
Not to tout my horn, but I’ve always been one of those girls with naturally long nails who never needed artificial nails – or so I thought. However, I tried fake nails a few months ago, and wooow! I love them, and I haven’t looked back since then.
I take breaks every once in a while to let my nails breathe, but I generally prefer fake nails now. They last longer and stay neat for long periods. They also make it possible for you to enjoy different art and nail designs that would’ve otherwise been impossible with your natural nails.
In this article, I’ll take you through different types of fake nails and my experience with each type.
Let’s dive in!
Top 5 Types of Fake Nails / Artificial Nails
One thing I love about fake nails is that they don’t discriminate. You’ll always find something, even if you have damaged or short nails.
Now let’s talk about the different fake nail types and which one to choose on different occasions.
1. Gel nails
If you’re a beginner at the fake nails business, I recommend you start your journey with gel nail manicures. Gel nails are comfortable and feel natural because no extensions are added. It’s basically like applying nail polish that lasts longer; the only difference is the hardening method.
Gel nails are made with acrylic gel that’s hardened using ultraviolet (UV) under a LED nail lamp.
First, the technician does all the initial self-care tips, like cutting your nails ( if necessary), removing cuticles, buffing, and shaping.
They then start the application with a base coat, which is done at least twice. The next step is to get the nail polish application at least three times (depending on how rich you want the color to be).
After every application, your nails will be put in the LED device to harden the coat.
One question I get from beginners is if the UV hurts, and the answer is NO – there is zero pain or discomfort.
I love gel nails when I want something colorful that will protect my nails, but it’s only a good option if you don’t work with water a lot. Otherwise, they peel off very fast.
2. Nail wraps
I love nail wraps, and I’m purposely adding it after gel nail on the list because I use it to keep it classy if one gel nail chips and the rest are still in good shape.
Nail wraps are also a good option for an impromptu nail care session when you need to go somewhere and have no time for a manicure.
I also do nail wraps on my little nieces when they want something flashy.
You can do nail wraps at home whether you’re good at DIY or not. Nail wraps are also a good option if you want to take a break from other fake nails, like acrylics or gel, to allow your nails to grow.
With nail wraps, your nails are protected from damage and given a chance to regain strength.
To apply nail wraps, all you need to do is to prep your nails – shape and file them. Next, add the stickers to your nails and file them to remove the extra extension.
Once the sticker is in place, you can use your nail polish to try any nail art you want.
Besides the easy application process (you can do it at home and fast) – nail wraps are also budget-friendly.
3. Powder dip nails
This is another easy and fast way to get a perfect manicure – It’s impressive how much the nail industry has developed. I recently tried powder dip nails at home, and it was mind-blowing.
For starters, if you’re paranoid about needing UV to harden your nails, you’ll be happy to know that powder dip nails don’t require UV for hardening. It dries on its own -and it happens FAST!
I got the nail base, activator, and gel when I bought the powder nail package. After prepping your nail, the first thing you need to do is to apply the nail base.
I loved the nail base, but it dries in microseconds, so you must be quick to successfully make it to step two. Step two is deeping your nail in the colored powder – and applying the activator immediately.
Ensure you buff the nails to remove the excess powder once you get the desired shade. You can then apply the top coat and try out different types of art.
4. Acrylic nails – One of the most common types of fake nails
When we talk about fake nails, the first thing that comes to mind is acrylic nails. I should’ve put it on top of the list, but I wanted to give you other options first.
Acrylic nails are very comfy, but I recommend starting with the three options I discussed first if you’re a beginner in the fake nails journey.
Ease into it.
Acrylic nails are popular because they’re long-lasting and work for all nail types, including brittle or non-existent nails. There are many ways to play with these fake nails – you can apply them as a nail tip extension or overlay.
Acrylic nails are a combination of a powder and liquid polymer. You apply the paste on the nails and allow it a few minutes to dry. You can then buff it, shape and cut it to the length you want them to be.
5. Polygel nails
This is an excellent alternative for acrylic nails – I love to describe polygel as the baby to acrylic and gel because you get the convenience of both. One of my favorite things about this artificial nail option is the easy application process.
You only need to pour the gel into the spatula (it comes with the package and is in the shape of a nail).
Next, you place the “nail” on your prepped natural nails and place your nail in LED light to dry the gel. Then, remove the spatula and file the dried gel to the size and shape you want.
Polygel nails are very light compared to other fake nails, making them very comfortable to wear.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the types of fake nails in question. For example, gel nails will only last 2-3 weeks before they start chipping.
On the other hand, acrylic nails can last even 6-8 weeks if well maintained. However, powder nails last the longest because their polymers are stronger than gel nails.
Some fake nails, like nail wraps, are safe and suitable for your nails because they protect them and give room for growth.
They have no chemicals, so they have zero health risks to your nails. However, consistent use of other fake nails, like acrylics, can damage your nails.
Taking a break every six months is advisable to allow your nails to regrow and regain strength.
It depends on the kind of fake nails you have. For example, gel nails start chipping or peeling off. For acrylics, some nails might start bending or come out altogether.
Removing fake nails in good time is important to protect your natural nails.
Time to get all dolled up
So, that’s all about different types of fake nails. I have gel nails as I write this article because I was taking a break from polygels, but I’ll be having them done today! This is one of the greatest forms of self-care and greatly impacts how you feel about yourself.
Fake nails make me feel girly, confident, and prettier, so I highly recommend them if you want to reward yourself or start your self-love badass era!
I’ll be getting acrylics. What about you? Let us know in the comments section.