What are the different types of manicures? The main manicure types that you will come across are basic, acrylic, gel (including Shellac), French and dip powder.
For the longest-lasting manicure, choose a gel or acrylic style. Gel nail polish is less likely to chip, and acrylic is even stronger than gel.
Gel and acrylic manicures last longer and you don't have to worry about ruining your nails after doing the dishes or laundry. There are six different types of gel or acrylic manicures that are most popular: soft gel, hard gel, gradient gel, vinylux, acrylic or dip powder.
Choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails.
While gel nails can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, they're more flexible than acrylic nails. This means your own nails are less likely to crack. You'll want to ask for gel nails that soak off rather than ones that must be filed off.
Gel Manicure
The main reason is that they can last for up to three weeks without chipping. The second best reason? They dry incredibly fast. They are more flexible and less harsh than acrylic nails too.
There is very little evidence that SNS is any better or worse for your nails than gel polish, hard gel or acrylic. What causes damage to your natural nails is not the product itself, but the application and removal process. This is why your technician will advise you not to pick at or peel off your gel or acrylic.
SNS is hailed as a healthy manicure, as the powder formula contains nail-fortifying calcium and other minerals. “It can be applied to almost any nail, no matter how short,” adds Bowhill-Hayes. “They last well; up to three weeks with no lifting.”
According to Stern, there are five main signs that your nails need a rest from your weekly manicure appointments: the appearance of keratin granulation (rough and white patches on the surface of the nail), peeling, ridges and splits, discoloration, and dehydrated cuticles.
Enter powder manicures. Also known as a dip or SNS (Signature Nail System, a brand that makes powders) manicure, this technique is catching on at salons around the country. Women love it because it's meant to be more gentle to your nails, and it can last for up to six weeks.
Gel and shellac manicures are chip resistant and lasting, but they can also cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking.
French Manicure
Traditionally, French manicures feature a natural-colored nail with a white tip, and can be done with regular nail polish, gel nail polish, or acrylic. They look clean and classic, but can feature fun twists.
Shellac vs gel: the low down on which is better
You can enjoy a fantastic polish with both. For longer lasting, with more colour options, choose gel. For shine and ease, choose shellac. Talk to your nail technician and they may also have individual recommendations for you.
However, professionals suggest leaving two to three weeks between each manicure and pedicure is ideal for keeping your nails in the best shape. Within this time frame, your nails and cuticles will begin to dry and grow jagged. Most nail varnishes or coats will also begin to chip away.
Traditional nail polish may be the easiest to apply, but we all know how easily they chip and wear away. That leaves us with one choice – gel manicures. If you're in the market for low-maintenance nails, gels are the perfect option for you. Gel nails involve a three-step process: base coat, polish, and top coat.
Shellac nails are similar to gel nails in that they're both cured under a UV lamp, but Shellac is also a brand of gel nail polish by CND. Gel nails can be applied either by hand or under a UV lamp (which typically requires acrylic powder), while Shellac comes pre-packaged as nail polish.
Shellac polishes mix two types of nail coating: gel (for durability and nail protection) and traditional nail polish (for color and shine). Shellac is thinner and softer than gel polish, but harder than traditional varnish.
If you're after strength and durability, SNS is a great option. Compared to gel, it doesn't chip as easily and can typically last up to 2 - 3 weeks before it appears to lift at the edge or starts to grow out from underneath.
Dip powder nails are an amazing breakthrough in nail technology that gives you beautiful nails that last – as long as a month! Rather than polished on, your color comes from a powder “dip” applied by your nail technician between base and sealant coats, giving you gorgeous color that lasts.
Although gel manicures can be beautiful and long-lasting, they can be tough on nails. Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling and cracking, and repeated use can increase the risk for skin cancer and premature skin aging on the hands.
“Acrylics should last six to eight weeks with a fill needed about every two to three weeks, depending on your nail growth,” says Lee. Not only does getting a fill—a.k.a. a touchup between the bottom of the nail and the cuticle—improve the appearance of the manicure, but it also helps it last longer.
Another reason the SNS procedure tends to weaken nails is the removal process. This is an inflexible product, so any breaks or lifting usually takes your own nail with it! People prone to picking or removing can also peel away layers of their own nails with the product.
They are worried about the possible harmful effects of UV light exposure." Additionally, while Shellac appears to help avoid the damage to the nails caused by acrylics, SNS goes a step further, according to Vo. “SNS is positively good for nail health.
If you've been wondering what makes your nails grow, then SNS nails are a great choice. SNS dip powder products offer your nails nutrients to promote growth and repair. The method of creating layers of dip powder gives your nails durable protection, protecting them from breaking.