The Most Popular Type of Manicure

Selecting a manicure style that best fits you requires considering more than nail polish colors and shapes; also take into account your lifestyle and expected maintenance requirements when making this decision.

With so many choices available to you, it can be daunting trying to identify which manicure will be the most suitable.

Acrylic

Acrylic nails, also referred to as artificial or fake nails, are extensions that you place over natural nails to add length and shape. They’re great for trying intricate nail art that wouldn’t work with shorter nails! Acrylics consist of liquid monomer mixed with powder polymer that harden into a decorative layer that can be painted over with polish or even formed into different shapes using molds.

While acrylic nails may appear long-term, the application and removal processes can actually be very harmful to natural nails. Filing and soaking in acetone are necessary in order to remove the acrylics effectively; otherwise, long-term damage could occur.

Gel manicures offer more versatility than acrylics, making them the ideal solution for people who like to alter their nail art frequently or want to avoid damage associated with acrylics. Gel nail polish consists of liquid and pigment that cures under UV lighting and can easily be removed using standard nail polish remover.

Gel

For a long-lasting manicure that won’t chip, gel manicure is your go-to option. Curated under UV or LED lights, gel manicure can last for three weeks without chipping; however, its chemicals can damage nails if removed improperly; for this reason it is advised that they be professionally removed at a reputable salon by trained personnel; additionally cuticle oil should also be applied periodically between appointments to keep nails healthy and strong.

As you peruse the selections at a nail salon, choosing an appropriate manicure style may seem overwhelming. By taking some time to consider your daily activities and nail shape that complements you better, making the decision process simpler can help make the choice less daunting. Here, salon owners, nail techs and one beauty writer who have tried them all offer their advice for selecting an appropriate manicure type for yourself.

Shellac

Shellac nails use a proprietary polish developed and distributed by CND. A manicure involves applying a base coat followed by two or three layers of colored shellac polish that have been cured under UV light for curing.

Rebalancing appointments should be scheduled every two weeks in order to keep nails in peak condition. These services typically include filing and shaping the nail, cuticle maintenance, hand soak and finally the application of polish and top coat.

Nail art is an added service that involves adhering polka dots, flowers, Santa hats or any other design onto your nails for an additional fee of approximately $20 more per service visit. Nail art can help express your creativity while simultaneously adding up to an enjoyable way of showing it!

Dunne cautions that frequent shellac manis can erode natural nails if not removed properly (by picking or using harsh nail polish remover at home), because water seeps into layers of the fingernail, harboring bacteria that could potentially cause fungus infection. She advises visiting an experienced nail pro and allowing them to soak off color safely without harm.

Powder Coat

An alternative to acrylic nails, this healthy manicure uses liquid monomer and powder to form a thick layer, on which nail polish will then be applied. Furthermore, using this technique you may be able to lengthen your nails by gradually applying more layers.

At its core, nail enhancement involves dipping your nails in a clear gel solution before adding powder for desired shapes and forms. Once dry, a technician then applies top coat and your new nails are good to go!

Nail art and specific design enthusiasts alike may wish to try experimenting with gel nails as an option for nail art or design projects. Due to their more durable nature, these types of polish can often last two weeks with proper care.

Your perfect manicure depends on your preferences, budget and nail health. Select a style that enhances your natural beauty without damaging nails or cuticles.