Acrylic Nail

Long well manicured nails have always been coveted by women in most cultures. Artificial nails are a favorite accessory with women who want to sport long nails but can't get their natural nails to grow that well. There are many style options to choose from when you are shopping for artificial nails – acrylic nail, gel nail, silk wraps and other kinds of fake nails.

Artificial nails, if applied correctly can protect your nails from biting, picking, excess moisture and other elements that can weaken or damage them. But long artificial nails can be a source of infection since they provide a ground for microorganisms to attach and thrive. Utmost care and hygiene is necessary to maintain long nails.

Artificial nail

It is essential to get your artificial nails done at a licensed salon by skilled technicians. Hygiene and right procedure are vital to healthy and safe artificial nails. The equipment used for artificial nail fixing must be sterilized by chemical sterilization or autoclaving. Nails must be allowed to breathe occasionally.

Do not wear artificial nails for extended periods at a stretch. Artificial nails need regular care and maintenance. Artificial nails are more durable than natural nails and last much longer. Acrylic nails are the strongest fake nail options. They need to be applied well to lend a natural and elegant look.

Fake nails usually never chip or break. Silk or linen wraps are artificial nails made of silk, linen or fiberglass. They are cut to the desired nail shape and glued to the nail plate. This type of artificial nail is ideal for women who are happy with the length of their nails. Artificial nails need to be touched up every few weeks. If you are trying out a do-it-yourself fake nail kit, be sure to follow all the instructions carefully. Artificial nails carry some health hazards that any user must be aware of:

• Avoid artificial nails if you have a skin irritation or reaction.
  
  
• Avoid picking or biting acrylic or other fake nails off.
  
  
• Use protective gloves while working with your hands or handling detergents.
  
  
• A base coat will prevent artificial nails from getting stained with nail polish.
  
  
• Use non-acetone nail polish removers to avoid dissolving the artificial nail.
  
  
• Get a fake nail done on one nail first to check for any reaction.
  
  
• Avoid artificial nails if you are suffering from a nail infection.
  
  
• If you accidentally break an artificial nail, clean the space between natural and fake nails with alcohol to prevent infection. This area is prone to bacterial and fungal infection. It is also unsafe to let moisture get trapped between your natural nails and artificial long nails.
  

Gel nail

Gel nails are popular with most first-timers to artificial nails, as they are easier to apply and set. They differ from acrylic nails in that they have a different appearance and curing procedure. They are relatively odor free and natural looking too. Gel nails are applied like a thick paint over the natural nails. They are then cured under UV light in a curing box. In a few minutes, you can enjoy shiny and strong fake nails. Gel nails are much glossier than acrylic nails but may not be as tough and hardy. They are thin and flexible and crystal clear.

Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails are usually a combination of liquid (monomer) and powder (polymer). Pink and white acrylic nails that lend a permanent French manicure look are often referred to as 'solar nails'. Acrylic nails are probably the strongest among all the artificial nail options but they too need to be applied with finesse to appear natural and beautiful.

Removing acrylic nails is done with acetonitrile – a toxic chemical that is likely to irritate the respiratory system. Artificial nails need to be maintained every two weeks. It is necessary to touch up or fill in the area near the cuticle – at the spot where the natural nail has grown. This is essential to avoid moisture and bacteria breeding in that crevice.