There are different types of nail extensions that can be done at home, including acrylic, gel, and artificial nail tips. Here are some steps and product details for each type:
Acrylic Nails:
- Artificial tips: There are several types of nail tips available on the market, like white, clear, colored, glitter, with design, etc. These tips are basically made of plastic.
- Nail glue: Nail glues are easily available now.
- Acrylic powder and liquid: The acrylic nails are created by mixing liquid monomer and a powder polymer, which when combined form a hard protective layer that is sculpted over the natural nail. These nails become hard when exposed to air.
- Acrylic nail clippers and files: Regular clippers and files arent as effective on acrylic nails. 180, 240, 1000 & 4000 grit should be enough. You might need an even coarser file than the 180 grit if the end result is very clumpy.
Steps:
- Apply the tips: Find the right size tips for your nail. If the tip doesnt fit your nail perfectly, file it down to size. Place a dab of glue on the tip from side to side and apply it to your natural nail so that the bottom edge of the acrylic tip is centered halfway down the surface of your nail. Hold it in place for five seconds to allow the glue to dry. Do that on all 10 nails, then cut the nails to preferred length.
- Apply the acrylic mixture to your nails: Start at the "smile line" - the bottom edge of the acrylic tip. Flatten the acrylic ball over the line and brush it down to the tip. Spread it quickly and smoothly so that the transition between your natural nail and the acrylic tip is smooth. Take a second ball of acrylic and place it near your cuticle, but not too close. Press the tip onto your nail so that the bottom edge of the acrylic tip is centered halfway down the surface of your nail. Hold it in place for five seconds to allow the glue to dry. Do that on all 10 nails, then cut the nails to preferred length.
- Shape the artificial nails, clean them, and apply nail polish or do nail art.
Gel Nails:
- Gel nail extension kit: This kit includes jelly tips, prep, primer, builder gel, topcoat, and a nail lamp.
Steps:
- Apply the jelly tips: Choose the right size tips for your nails and apply them using the nail glue provided in the kit.
- Apply the builder gel: Apply the builder gel to the tips and cure them under the nail lamp.
- Shape the nails, clean them, and apply nail polish or do nail art.
Artificial Nail Tips:
- Artificial tips: There are several types of nail tips available on the market, like white, clear, colored, glitter, with design, etc. These tips are basically made of plastic.
- Nail glue: Nail glues are easily available now.
Steps:
- Apply the artificial tips: Choose the right size tips for your nails and apply them using the nail glue.
- Shape the tips, clean them, and apply nail polish or do nail art.
It is important to note that doing nail extensions at home requires practice and patience. It is also important to read about the risks involved before starting.
