The mad methods of Manicures
As makeup and beauty lovers, you will all understand the complete and utter content that comes with having your nails done. There is nothing quite like the complete feeling you have from a fresh set of sparkly red or pink talons.
1. SNS
One of the newest methods on the market, Signature Nail Systems offers a manicure that is sturdy and arguably one of the most innovative. Using a pink & white powder system, SNS requires multiple layers created by dipping the finger in powder and tapping off the excess. Once a foundation is built, the technician then repeats the process using a coloured powder of your choice. The result is a thick, dry and durable coating over the nail - which your technican will then file down further for smoothness. The entire manicure requires no UV (Goodbye, wrinkly fingers!) and only a thin top coat to seal (5 minutes drying time, but do note the entire process normally takes around an 1-1.5 hours).
Personally, I find this method to be the most effective. I request one extra coat of colour when using SNS to ensure it is a thick coating. As a result, I find SNS will last quite literally for as long as I keep it on for. I have kept an SNS manicure on for 8 weeks! While there was significant cuticle growth, my nails did not break or budge one bit. This manicure is the most expensive, setting you back anywhere between $50-60. But if do not have the budget to redo your nails every 2-3 weeks, this is the solution for you.
2. Shellac
The most popular nail method right now is the reigning supreme, Shellac mani. Sometimes referred to as the 'gel maniure', this manicure is applied like regular polish - but with multiple coats of a base, colour and top coat. Each layer is set under a UV light, this gel formula is long-wearing and sturdy, but peels off like a plaster, with the intention of causing minimal damage to your natural nail bed. The entire process can take anywhere from 20-45 minutes, so if you are pressed for time - opt for a gel manicure!
Shellac is affordable for its longevity, costing around $25-35 for a set. Often times, Shellac will be the option will the most colours to choose from. If you are busy and often rely on your hands for work (retail or hospitality girls, unite!) then you will love this method. Overall, Shellac will last anywhere from 3-4 weeks.
3. Acrylic
The most 'Instagrammable' nails you can get - acrylic tips. These lovely and long nails are quite the statement. A full set of acrylic can vary in price, but on average will set you back $45-50. For those with slow growing nails, or thin nail beds - acrylic can be a godsend to your wishes to have those thick, luscious nails you've always lusted over. This method is made by attaching a plastic/acrylic nail 'tip' to the edge of the nail bed with nail glue, then forming a foundation to the nail with acrylic powder mixed with liquid. The result is a thick, sturdy nail bed with elongated tips.
For some, this method works well, especially if they do not rely much on their hands for work. These nails are very glamorous and feminine, and when maintained can look elegant and professional. There is a danger of damaging the natural nail with this method, as it does require a rough nail bed for the nail glue and acrylic to stick to. Often, a drill bit will be used by the manicurist in order to create the rough base for the nail. During the removal process, acrylic is also most commonly removed using a drill bit. If maintained by a professional and not over-used - this removal process will cause minimal to moderate damage. However, if you rely on your hands (For work, or at school) or have a tendency to pick at your nails/cuticles, you may find this method will not work for us and cause weak and chipped nail beds.
This entire process takes anywhere between 45mins-1hr. But its longevity depends on how much you use your fingers (Anywhere from 2-4 weeks!). My recommendation is to choose this method wisely. For a special occassion, these nails are a perfect addition to any outfit. But when removed and applied in succession, especially if you are working labour intensive jobs - these nails will chip off and result in more harm than good! Beauty junkie beware! (They do look gorgeous though...)
4. Nail polish
Oh, the tried and the true! Easily the most accessible, if you want all the luxury without the price-tag, a regular spa manicure is easy to find for around $15-20. (Better yet, find a polish you probably have lying at home, and create your own DIY spa mani!)
If you don't know how this process works, a spa manicure typically invovles soaking the nail bed to soften the cuticle (The skin around the edges of your nail). The cuticle is pushed upwards using a 'cuticle pusher', and the excess skin is picked of (Don't worry - this sounds like it hurts but it in fact does not!) - then your nails are buffed for smoothness, filed into uniform shape. Lastly, a base coat is applied, a few coats of colour, then a top coat to seal. After some drying time (Typical 10-15min), finished! The whole process takes anywhere between 20-30min.
While this method will not last long (1-2 weeks ), but if you are short on time, or don't want to spend too much - this method will work for short term, polished fingertips!
Until next time, beauty babes! Xx
