Artificial nails

Artificial nails, also known as fake nails, false nails, acrylic nails, press ons, nail extensions or nail enhancements, are extensions placed over fingernails as fashion accessories. Many artificial nail designs attempt to mimic the appearance of real fingernails as closely as possible, while others may deliberately stray in favor of an artistic look.

Artificial nails require regular upkeep: it is recommended that they are attended to, on average, every two weeks; however they may last over one month.

Artificial nails are an extension, not a replacement, of natural nails. There are two main approaches to creating artificial nails – tips and forms:

Atop these, either acrylic, hard gel, or any combination of both may be applied. Tips are available in many different designs, ranging from solid colors like gel or regular nail polish, to graphic designs such as animal prints and metallic colors. In addition to polishes, other embellishments may be used, such as rhinestones, glitter, stickers, fimo charms and striping tape, to add more to the artificial nail's design. Artificial nails can be shaped, cut, and filed into a variety of shapes, including square, squared oval/"squoval", rounded, almond, ballerina/coffin, mountain peak, lipstick, and stiletto.

Acrylic nails are made out of acrylic glass. The conventional technology employs polymer beads synthesized from ethyl methacrylate (poly-EMA). When it is mixed with a liquid monomer (usually ethyl methacrylate mixed with some inhibitor) it forms a malleable bead. This mixture begins to cure immediately, continuing until completely solid in minutes. Acrylic nails can last up to 21 days but can last longer with touch-ups. To give acrylic nails color, gel polish, nail polish, and dip powders can be applied. Use of MMA (Methyl methacrylate liquid monomers) acrylics are strongly discouraged and banned in some states as it can cause damage to the natural nail, asthma; irritated eyes, skin, nose, and mouth; difficulty concentrating; loss of smell and kidney issues. A suitable alternative is EMA (Ethyl Methacrylate Liquid Monomers) in salon use.

Gel nails can be utilised in order to create artificial nail extensions, but can also be used like nail polish. They are hardened using ultraviolet light. They last longer than regular nail polish and chip less often. They can have a high-gloss finish and last for two to three weeks.

Gel nails are strong, although not as strong as acrylic or fiberglass nails, and tend to be more expensive.

Acetone does not dissolve some types of gel nails, so they have to be removed at a salon by buffing and filing, usually with an electric nail file. Repeated buffing can lead to thinning of the nail plate until the buffed nails fully grow out. Improper application of gel nail products, including soft gel tips, polygel, gel polish, and builder gel can lead to fungal infections and allergic reactions.