Ava Monroe
There are four main ways to get your nails done: solar, acrylic, gel, and dip powder. NexGen nails are a type of dip powder nail. With NexGen, your nail is first coated with a base and then dipped into a powder. The process is repeated for each nail, and a final smoothing is done with a drill before the last coat. NexGen is similar to acrylic nails in terms of durability but does not require the use of primer or UV light. Acrylic nails are an enhancement for nails made from acrylic powder and liquid monomer. Solar nails are similar to acrylic nails, except colored acrylic is used.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Durability | Solar and acrylic nails are the most durable, followed by NexGen and gel nails. |
| Chipping | Solar nails are the least susceptible to chipping, followed by acrylic nails. |
| Toxicity | Acrylic nails contain toluene, a toxic chemical that can cause irritation and infection. NexGen nails are a healthier option. |
| Application process | Acrylic nails are sculpted from a mixture of monomer liquid and polymer powder. NexGen nails are applied by dipping the natural nail into a powder after coating with a base. |
| Removal process | Gel nails are the easiest to remove, followed by NexGen nails. |
| Cost | Gel nails are the cheapest, followed by dip powder nails, solar nails, and acrylic nails. |
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What You'll Learn
NexGen Nails: Healthier and More Natural
NexGen nails are a healthier and more natural alternative to gel, acrylic, and solar nails. Unlike other artificial nail options, NexGen nails do not require the use of potentially harmful chemicals or the drilling and sanding of the natural nail bed, which can cause damage and leave your nails feeling brittle.
NexGen nails are created through a dipping powder method. First, your nails are prepped and coated with a base. Then, your nails are dipped into a powder, which contains the main ingredient in Krazy Glue, mixed with acrylic. This process is repeated a few times, with a clear polish applied in between each dip, and then a final smoothing is done with a drill before the last coat.
The result is a thick, durable manicure that can last up to five weeks without chipping, peeling, or breaking. NexGen nails are also customizable, allowing you to choose the dip color and nail shape and add various designs and ornaments.
One of the biggest advantages of NexGen nails is that they do not damage your natural nails. They do not require the same level of filing, drilling, or sanding as acrylics, gels, or solar nails, which can leave your natural nails feeling thin and fragile. With NexGen nails, you can also choose to apply the powder directly to your natural nails, without the use of false tips, for a more natural look and feel.
If you are looking for a long-lasting, stylish, and healthy manicure option, NexGen nails are a great choice. They provide the durability and customizability of artificial nails while being gentler on your natural nails, making them an attractive option for those who want to maintain strong and healthy nails.
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Acrylic Nails: Susceptible to Chipping
Acrylic nails are an enhancement for nails made from acrylic powder and liquid monomer. They are susceptible to chipping, despite being one of the most durable nail options. The top layer of polish on acrylic nails is prone to chipping, which can be frustrating for those seeking long-lasting manicures.
The application process of acrylic nails involves drilling and sanding the natural nail bed to create a rough surface for the acrylic to adhere to. This step can be damaging to the nail bed, causing it to become thinner and weaker over time. While this process is necessary for the acrylic application, it contributes to the susceptibility of chipping.
Additionally, the removal process of acrylic nails can further impact their durability. Some individuals may be tempted to rip their acrylic nails off, which can cause significant damage to the natural nail bed. Even with proper removal techniques, such as drilling and soaking, the process can still be harsh and weaken the nails.
The chipping of acrylic nails can also be attributed to their thickness. Acrylic nails are built up using layers of acrylic powder and liquid, resulting in a thicker nail surface compared to natural nails. This added thickness makes them more prone to chipping, especially when exposed to impact or pressure.
Furthermore, the application and removal of acrylic nails require skilled technicians to minimise potential damage to the natural nails. Improper techniques or excessive force during the process can increase the likelihood of chipping and other issues.
In summary, while acrylic nails offer durability and an enhanced appearance, their susceptibility to chipping remains a notable drawback. The application, thickness, removal processes, and technician's skill can all influence the likelihood of chipping. For those seeking long-lasting manicures, considering alternative options or taking extra care during the application and removal of acrylic nails may be advisable.
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Solar Nails: Least Popular Option
Solar nails are another option for those looking to get their nails done. This method is similar to acrylic nails, except colored acrylic is used. Solar nails are made from monomer liquid, which comes in two types: one that dries quickly and one that doesn't. The type that dries slowly is used for acrylic with a high pigment content. While solar and acrylic nails are the most durable out of the four main options (the others being gel and dip powder), solar nails are the least popular choice. This is because, despite being the toughest, acrylic nails are more popular and also cheaper by $0.50. Acrylic nails are also more susceptible to chipping due to their top layer of polish, which makes them a more appealing option.
Solar nails are also a more time-consuming process. After prepping the nails, false tips are glued to the natural nail tips and filed to the desired length. The tips are then buffed down to create an even surface for the powder application. A base coat is then applied, and the nail is dipped into the powder. This process is repeated several times, with a final smoothing done with a drill before the last coat.
While solar nails are a good option for those wanting long-lasting nails, their popularity is diminished by the fact that they are harder to remove than gel nails. They are also more expensive than gel nails, which are the least durable option. Solar nails are also not as widely available as acrylics, which can be found in most nail salons.
Ultimately, the choice between solar, acrylic, gel, and dip powder nails comes down to personal preference and what is available at your local salon.
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Gel Nails: Least Durable
Gel nails are one of the four main ways to get your nails done, the other three being solar, acrylic, and dip powder. While gel nails are long-lasting, they are the least durable of the four.
Gel nails are applied like regular nail polish and are cured under a UV lamp. The application process is simple: first, a base coat is applied, then the nail is placed under a UV light to dry the substance. This process is repeated a few times, ending with a final smoothing using a drill before the last coat.
One of the main advantages of gel nails is that they are hard to chip. However, they do not last as long as other options, typically lasting only three weeks. Additionally, they can be more challenging to remove than other types of nails, often requiring the top coat to be drilled off and the nails to be soaked in acetone.
While gel nails are a good option for those seeking long-lasting manicures, they may not be the best choice for those seeking the most durable option. For those seeking maximum durability, solar or acrylic nails may be better choices. Ultimately, the choice between these options depends on personal preference and the results of the nail technician's work.
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Dip Powder Nails: Lighter Form of Acrylic
Dip powder nails, also known as NexGen nails, are a type of manicure that uses a lighter form of acrylic powder. Unlike traditional acrylic nails, which are created by mixing monomer liquid and polymer powder, dip powder nails are applied by painting a glue-like substance onto the nail, which is then dipped into a powder. This process is repeated several times, with a final smoothing step before the last coat, resulting in a durable and long-lasting manicure.
One of the main advantages of dip powder nails is that they are healthier for your nails than traditional acrylics. Acrylics can be harsh on natural nails due to the need to drill and sand a layer of the nail bed, which can lead to damage and brittleness. In contrast, dip powder nails do not require the same level of buffing or filing, and they can be applied directly to the natural nail, making them a gentler alternative.
Dip powder nails also offer strong and durable results. They are known for their long-lasting effects, with some users reporting that their manicures lasted up to three to five weeks without chipping or mess-ups. This makes them a popular choice for those who are hard on their nails or want a low-maintenance option.
In terms of cost, dip powder nails typically start at a higher price point than gel polish but are more affordable than acrylic or solar nails. At Em and Em Nails, for example, dip powder nails start at $43, while gel polish on natural nails starts at $25.50, acrylic nails start at $50, and solar nails are $50.50.
While dip powder nails offer many benefits, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The removal process for dip powder nails can be more challenging and time-consuming than gel or acrylic nails, and they may require a professional for the best results. Additionally, some people may find the noise of the drill during the application process annoying.
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Frequently asked questions
NexGen nails are applied by first coating the nail with a base and then dipping it into a powder. Acrylic nails, on the other hand, are made by mixing monomer liquid and polymer powder together to sculpt the nail.
NexGen nails are known to be durable and long-lasting, with some users reporting that they can go two to four weeks without chipping or messing up. Acrylic nails are also durable, ranking as the second most durable type of nail enhancement after solar nails, but they are more susceptible to chipping due to their top layer of polish.
NexGen nails are often considered a healthier alternative to acrylic nails as they do not require the use of primer or UV light. They are also said to be less damaging and gentler on the nails, leaving them feeling natural while providing the strength and durability of acrylics.
Yes, NexGen nails come in a wide variety of colours and glitter options, and you can also use regular polish on top for designs.
