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What Are the Best Tips for Artificial Nails?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Among the most helpful tips a person may consider when it comes to artificial nails may be those that involve the sterilization of equipment to reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, tips for getting artificial nails on a budget and caring for the nails after they have been applied can be helpful. Some other good tips include those that involve committing to regular maintenance of the nails and being aware of possible signs of allergy.

Among the best tips for artificial nails are those that recommend applying them at home with sterile equipment that the user never shares, or choosing a nail salon that has a commitment to cleanliness and sterilization. Unfortunately, some salons do not use acceptable sanitation and sterilization techniques and may, as a result, represent a risk for their patients. For example, it is possible to spread some types of nail fungus and other infections through the use of unsterilized equipment.

Artificial fingernails.
Artificial fingernails.

Sometimes the best tips for artificial nails involve keeping costs low. If a person is on a budget, she may benefit from tips that recommend applying the nails at home. Often, this is a cheaper alternative when compared to going to a salon on a regular basis. On the other hand, some people may find it difficult, especially initially, to make their fake nails look exactly as they wish. For aesthetic reasons, they may prefer to go to a salon despite the higher costs.

A woman with acrylic fingernails.
A woman with acrylic fingernails.

Once a person has artificial nails, many of the best tips involve caring for them properly. This usually includes promptly repairing nails that break or become damaged. For example, if a gel or acrylic nail cracks or is otherwise damaged, having it repaired can help prevent damage to the underlying nail. A person may also do well to avoid doing things that could cause her to snag her nail on something or pull it backward. Such events can prove painful and damaging for the both artificial nail and the natural nail beneath it.

Gel nails curing under a UV light.
Gel nails curing under a UV light.

Another good tip for artificial nails involves being prepared for regular maintenance. For example, if a person has acrylic nails done in a salon, she will likely have to return to the salon every two weeks to have more acrylic applied. Likewise, those who apply their own fake nails at home will likely have to care for them on a similar schedule.

Additionally, some helpful artificial nail tips recommend being alert for signs of an allergy to the products used for applying and maintaining fake nails. The skin and nail beds can prove sensitive to the chemicals used in artificial nail care. In the event that signs of an allergy develop, such as a rash, flaking or cracking skin, or hives, an individual may do well to seek the advice of a trusted nail technician or a doctor.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Heavanet

Though it is a skill that takes a little time to perfect, applying artificial nails at home can save you a lot of money, especially if you like to wear them all the time.

A good way to learn the art of putting on artificial nails to make them look like you had them done at a salon is to buy several styles and sizes. Practice with them to get the best fit before you glue them to you natural nails. If they require any filing or trimming, it is also a good idea to do this first to prevent weakening the bond once you apply them.

Ocelot60

Another good tip to follow when wearing artificial nails is not to use them as tools. Though having long, strong nails makes you feel like you can use them to pry and open things, doing this is a sure way to cause damage to them.

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    • Artificial fingernails.
      Artificial fingernails.
    • A woman with acrylic fingernails.
      By: a1ex76
      A woman with acrylic fingernails.
    • Gel nails curing under a UV light.
      By: Antonio Gravante
      Gel nails curing under a UV light.