Gaining in popularity, BIAB is a new process of manicure that aims to be as long-lasting and hard-wearing as gel or shellac nails, but without the traditional damage that can be associated with more permanent forms of polish.
Nail Wraps and Stickers
A nail wrap or sticker will give you the same long-lasting effect as gel—minus all the removal hassle. Nail wraps and stickers are applied on top of the nail and secured down without any UV light curing. To remove them, simply use your usual acetone polish remover until the wrap is gone.
The newest technical innovation to impact the nail world is likely to astound – mainly because it doesn't physically exist. We're talking about the augmented reality (AR) manicure: technology that superimposes a hyperrealist, digital image onto a user's real-world view of their nail.
Nail piercings and other jewelry-inspired materials will be big in 2023. Longer nails will replace the shorter styles that reigned in 2022—perfect for piercing with dangling diamante add-ons to really make a statement. They should be combined with a clean, simple manicure to keep the focus on those accessories.
There are a few different nail extensions you can get. The most popular are Acrylics, Hard Gel, Dip Powder, Acrygel/ Polygel, Express Nails/Gel-X, BIAB, Fiber Glass and Silk Wrap.
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.
Gel Nail Extensions: Similar to acrylics, but without any of the toxic methyl methacrylate, gel extensions are a solid alternative. You can pick from a variety of shapes like square, round, or stiletto, and your manicurist will use a small amount of gel to secure the extension to your own nail.
Therefore, professional nail products — be it dip powder or gel — are equally healthy for the nails. In fact, the most important thing to know about dip powder or gel is that neither inherently causes damage to the nail. Instead, damage is caused by improper application or removal of nail coatings.
A basic manicure, with the right polishes, is the healthiest for your nails. When we say the 'right polishes' we mean the best nail growth polish or breathable nail polish. The harsh chemicals in many polishes often degrade our nails. Using an organic polish that contains vitamins, is the best way to avoid damage.
Dip powder is frequently cited as safer than gels, as well, since they aren't cured under an ultraviolet light—but bacterial infection can be a concern, should your technician not take the proper measures.
Simply put, dip powder polymers are stronger than those found in gel polish, and, therefore, dip manicures will generally last longer — up to five weeks, if properly cared for.
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.
Gel manicures benefit those with weaker nails and lasts just that little bit longer than Shellac. However, the removal process is quite lengthy. Shellac is a thinner polish, so if you want to give your nails more space to “breathe' and have sturdy natural nail beds, this one's for you.
An overlay of SNS means the product is applied over your own natural nail. No length is added to your own nails. If you require extra length on your natural nails, then a Full Set is required.
If you are looking for a nail manicure type that looks natural while protecting your actual nails, you should get gel nails. Gel nails are made out of gel acrylic, which is hardened with the help of ultraviolet (UV) curing light or an LED nail lamp.
So, if you are interested in trying something new, or you are looking for an alternative to acrylic nails, consider one of the following options: nail stickers (wraps), gel nail polish, dip powder, or gel nail extensions.
SNS provides a bit of extra strength and length to your nails, whilst maintaining a lightweight feel. It is much thinner than acrylic but thicker than gel polish. It's a great way of getting a bit of extra strength in your nails, whilst maintaining a more “natural-looking” finish.
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.
The Down-Low on SNS
Unlike your typical lacquer or gel polish, SNS is applied as a powder in multiple coats that hardens onto the nail. Where Gel nails rely on a UV lamp to set the polish in place, SNS eliminates the need for unnecessary exposure, causing people to think of it as a healthier alternative.
It does not take layers off or weaken the nail over time as SNS does, which means stronger, less damaged nails. Gelicious is free of formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, tuolene, camphor, xylene, ethyl tosylamide, ethyl methacrylate, parabens, acetone, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) – which means no nasty gel polish smell!
Best for long – extra long nails. Get Hard Gel if you are looking for a lighter version and more natural-looking nails. Best for short – long nails. Get Acrygel or Flexitips if you want to have the best of both worlds and are looking for a natural look or a Gel Polish Design.
French Glass Nails
“French glass is on the top of the list when it comes to popular nail styles this year. Many clients ask for it, but besides the classic french manicure, they come with different demands. In 2023, we'll see both a very thin, discrete french manicure and the exquisite french glass nail style.
Polygel is a hybrid nail polish formula originally created for nail technicians (although there are now at-home kits on the market). It offers the best qualities of acrylics and gel nails. Essentially, it's a nail enhancement made with acrylic powder and clear gel that can be used to give you the perfect set.