The Ultimate Guide To Try Nail Extensions At Home
There’s nothing we love more than stepping out of the salon with a fresh set of mani. Nail extensions are the most popular way of trying the hottest nail trends. But if you’re a little iffy about going to the salon or trying to save money - there’s never a bad time to try nail extensions at home. It is the easiest way to add zing to your digits without sacrificing your bank account's well-being. So if you wish to take matters into your own hands and create a salon-worthy manicure on your own, we have done the hard work for you.
Ahead, we’re listing down everything about nail extensions along with a crash course on how to apply nail extensions at home. Keep scrolling.
What Is Nail Extension?
If you have small nails that aren’t the best canvas for on-trend nail art, nail extensions are your best bet. They offer an easy way to make your nails look longer in seconds. You can either get it done by a salon professional or DIY it at home. Nail extensions are the fast-track ticket to lengthy and pretty manicures. If you want to try nail extensions at home, we’re listing down the different types of nail extensions you need to know about.
Types Of Nail Extensions
Ahead, find the different types of nail extensions you can try at home.
Acrylic Nail Extension
Acrylic nail extensions are one of the most popular types of nail extensions. It involves creating artificial nails by musing together a powder polymer with a liquid monomer. The combo is applied on top of your natural nails which then forms a hard protective layer. It defines and lengthens your nails. The acrylic extensions become hard when exposed to air. If you want to try acrylic nail extensions at home, you’ll have to add an artificial tip on top of your nails before applying the acrylic mix. The nail extensions are then buffed and shaped to get the desired nail shape and to add shine.
Gel Nail Extension
Gel nail extensions are gaining popularity these days. The process is also easier as compared to the other two types of nail extensions. It involves applying a gel-like fluid on top of an artificial nail extension or directly on your natural nail bed. This helps lengthen the claws and strengthen your nails. The primary difference between gel and acrylic nail extensions is that gel nail extensions don’t require mixing different products to create a fluid and the nails are cured in a UV lamp to help strengthen them.
Silk Or Fibreglass Nail Extensions
This is the least known approach to nail extensions. As the name suggests, nail extensions involve cutting tiny pieces of silk or fibreglass to fit the nail tip or bed. They are then sealed to the natural nail bed using glue or resin. While we recommend getting it done by a professional nail artist at a nail salon, you can also do it at home. It just requires a number of tools and products to get the desired look and finish.
How To Do Nail Extensions At Home - Step-By-Step
Calling out babes on a budget: If you want to up your manicure game without bleeding your bank account, we’re listing down the step-by-step guide to try nail extensions at home. Read on.
You’ll Need:
Artificial tips: There are several types of nail tips available in the market. From glittery iterations to pastels and French nails - you can pick the one that suits your beauty aesthetic. You can also opt for a clear or white nail tip if you want to try a different nail art.
Nail glue
Nail file
Buffer
Cuticle pusher and nipper
Nail cutter
Method:
Step 1: Before starting the process, wash your hands to make sure your nails are clean and free from dirt and debris. Then, remove any polish with the help of acetone.
MyGlamm Recommends: LIT Nail Enamel Remover
For babes who love to skip, jump, and hop from one nail colour to another - this nail paint remover is an absolute must-have. The enamel remover helps get rid of nail colour in just one swipe. Plus, it’s acetone-free and enriched with vitamin E, olive oil, and green tea extracts to keep your nails hydrated and protected.
Step 2: Use the cuticle pusher to push your cuticles back. This will give you more space to put on the artificial nails.
Step 3: Next, buff your natural nail bed with light hands. This will help get rid of excess shine and moisture on your nails.
Step 4: If you have long nails naturally, you need to cut them and trim the edges to ensure a better grip for the artificial nails.
Step 5: Choose the right nail size for your digits. It’s an important step as opting for the wrong nail size might make your manicure look unnatural and uneven. Take your time and choose the exact size of tip that matches the c-curve of your natural nail bed. If you can’t find the exact size and the artificial tip looks slightly wide, you can always file it to make it narrower.
Step 6: Once you have found the exact size of artificial tips for all your nails, it’s time to apply the glue. Apply the glue on your nails as well as on the hollow part of the tip. Apply it on top of your nails and put a little pressure to avoid air bubbles.
Step 7: Apply a little pressure for 30 seconds to let the artificial nails grip your natural nail bed. Next, use the nail cutter or a scissor to give your nails the desired length. You can shape and file it as per your liking.
Step 8: File the tip and sides of your artificial nails. Grab the buffer and start buffing on the area where the natural nail meets the artificial tip. This will helps smoothen the surface and give your nails a natural look. Avoid buffing your natural nails as it can damage them. Just buff the artificial tip. Do it slowly with light hands to avoid going overboard.
Step 9: Clean your nails using a brush and then apply the nail paint of your choice. You can skip this step if you have opted for an artificial nail tip with nail art.
MyGlamm Recommends: Manish Malhotra Gel Finish Nail Laquer - Secret Escape
This hi-shine gel finish nail polish colour is as classic as they come and will make your nails look like a million bucks. It’s all you need to keep your nails looking fab 24*7. There are a number of cute shades to choose from so you can sport a trend-forward mani without stepping out of your house.
FAQs:
How long do nail extensions last?
Depending on how well it is done - nail extensions can last from somewhere between 3 weeks to 4 weeks. As your natural nail starts to grow, you might notice a gap between the cuticle and the extension.
Which type of nail extension is best?
When it comes to longevity, gel extensions are better. They can last over three weeks. Acrylic extensions on the other hand need removal or refilling after one to two weeks.
What are the disadvantages of nail extensions?
Nail extensions might damage your natural nail bed if done incorrectly and on a frequent basis. Poorly and incorrectly applied nail extensions might also curb natural nail growth. Make sure you treat your nails with nail care products after getting rid of nail extensions. This will help restore your nail health.
Try nail extensions at home to take your mani game from flat to fab.
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