The Experts Answer Your Biggest Nail Questions
In this section, I’ll be answering the most frequently asked questions that I get from my lovely followers.
These are broken down into the following categories:
What?
How?
Where?
…And the Best!
Have a question that I didn’t answer below? Send me a message!
1. “What?”
What’s the difference between gel and acrylic nails
The difference is in the application. Acrylic nails are set using a combination of a liquid monomer and powder polymer, which create a rock hard layer over the natural nail. Gel nails are set using a UV light and mimic natural nails more closely. Acrylics tend to last longer. To discover which artificial nails are best for you, read my guide to Gel Nails vs Acrylic Nails.
What is gel overlay
It’s a gel-based nail strengthening mixture that’s applied to the natural nail to make them stronger and appear longer.
What is gel nail polish
A liquid gel polish that’s applied to the natural nail and cured under a UV light. Gel nail polish has better staying power (around 2-weeks) than other nail polish. Looking to order some? Check out my list of where to buy nail polish in bulk.
What is a gel manicure
A gel manicure will give you super shiny nails that will last for weeks! In a salon, it’s simply done by applying a base coat, a gel nail polish, and curing this under a UV nail lamp. To do the perfect gel manicure, you need the right equipment. Check out my reviews on the manicure tables for sale in 2018.
What are hard gel nails?
Hard gel nails are artificial nails similar to acrylics, but sent under a UV light.
2. “How?”
How long do acrylic nails take
A full set of acrylic nails takes anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours to apply. This depends on the condition of the natural nails or old acrylics that need removing or repairing.
How to apply acrylic nails
As with a traditional manicure, start by prepping the nails. Clean, trim and buff before applying a nail primer. Dip your brush first into the acrylic liquid then into the acrylic powder. Dab away any excess. Apply to your natural nails as evenly as possible. Then use a pinching tool (if you wish) to lengthen and shape. When the acrylic is dry, file the nails and apply a top coat. Done!
How to apply gel nails
Start by preparing the nails; clean, trim and polish. Then apply a gel base coat evenly and cure it under the UV lamp. Once dry, apply the gel colour polish and set under the UV lamp. Repeat if necessary. Use a gel cleanser to wipe away any excess. Apply a gel top coat and once more, cure under the UV.
How to take off gel nails
First file your nails, then soak them in acetone or apply acetone soaked cotton wool on each nail and wrap the top of each finger in aluminum foil. Leave for 30 minutes. If the gel doesn’t come off, repeat the process.
How long should acrylic nails last
Acrylics should last around 2-weeks, any longer than this, and they could end up harming your natural nails! Learn more in my article covering healthy nails.
3. “Where?”
Where to get artificial nails
Good news! You don’t have to pay to go to a salon for artificial nails. You can order them conveniently online. Go here for nail design inspiration.
Where to get fake / artificial nails without acrylic
The cheapest place to buy any nail accessories is on Amazon. To get started, check out my review of the best nail decorations and stickers of 2018!
Where to buy acrylic gel for nails
Your best bet is online, I’ve listed my must-have acrylic products here.
4. “Best?”
Best type of fake / artificial nails and which ones last?
The quality of artificial nails can vary, but they should last a few weeks. Read my ultimate guide.
