New Day, New Nails - Which to pick?

It seems like there's a new nail kit coming out every week. This article will help you navigate which option is best for you based on how long you plan to wear your new set, and your experience level.

If you've decided bi-weekly or monthly appointments no longer fit in your budget, or you're looking to pick up a new hobby, it's time to start doing your own nails! To begin, decide which application method you want to start with. There are several but don't worry! I'll explain...

Press On Nails (Retail or Custom)

You see them in drugstores, online shops, and even some influencers coming out with their own nail lines. Retail options are great when looking for a quick pick-me-up before a night out, a new set around 5-7 days, or trying a new nail design. Kits most times include a range of nail sizes (e.g 0-10), a wooden cuticle stick, an alcohol prep pad and/or a small nail file. These are included to ensure your nail plate is prepared for maximum adhesion - make sure to pick up a reliable nail glue too!

Custom options sold by smaller shops often have higher quality given they're not produced on a large scale, and there's more opportunity for a personalized product and customer experience. If you see a picture online from Pinterest or Instagram of a set you just need to have, search for an online seller who has a custom option press on nails and follow their ordering process. There are sellers that also offer a variety of design options to choose from.

Gel Manicures

If you like to keep it natural or are trying to grow out your natural nails, a simple gel mani is the way to go. For extra strength and durability, you could opt for a builder gel manicure for a flexible solution that allows your nails to grow strong and healthy. If you prefer more structure (aka those crispy edges 😉), try out a hard gel manicure. Whichever you choose, gel provides more longevity and wear out of your fresh set. Although growth might be the goal, gel manicures are expected to be maintained and re-done every 2-3 weeks, so bear this in mind if you choose this option.

Nail Extensions (Acrylic)

 A good old' acrylic full set is what many of us OG nail lovers are used to. In present day, it's important to make sure your service provider is using high-quality materials. Be sure to look out for sterilized tools, clean workspaces, and quality customer service for the best experience. A good tip if you want to bring inspiration photos or try out trendy nail designs would be to check out the salon's social pages to see if they offer services or add-ons you're interested in.

Private nail technicians offer a more personal, relationship-oriented service experience. If being besties with your nail tech sounds great, look for nail artists in your area on social media and check their availability pages to book a service.

Nail Extensions (Gel/Polygel/Gel-X)

 For a number of people, the smell of acrylic monomer dampens the fun of getting their nails done. Or for those with health conditions, it can be unsafe to breathe in stronger fumes. A popular alternative is polygel; a hybrid between soft gel and acrylic. This option offers the flexible curing time of gel with the strength of acrylic, making it perfect for beginners looking for a less odorous extension option.

Soft/Hard Gel is the another great option for growing out natural nails or just keeping your natural nails covered and protected. The hardness depends on whether you like a flexible or more rigid feel.

Gel-X (my personal favorite), has become synonymous with the application of pre-shaped, full cover nail extensions with a gel nail glue. This option is perfect for nail enthusiasts wanting to focus more on nail art then perfecting a nail structure, given these nail enhancements come pre-structured for a quick and easy gel extension. The official Gel-X system was invented by Aprés Nail in 2017, with a series of nail products featuring their original soft-gel nail tips that easily dissolve during removal for easier, less damaging soak offs.

No matter what nail option you choose, it's best to do your research and make sure you're well equipped or well-versed in how to maintain nail enhancements you do at home or receive nail services for.