FAKING IT

False nails offer the ideal solution for women who battle to grow their own. There are now several techniques to make up for chewed or unsightly nails. The term 'artificial nail enhancement' includes any process that lengthens, thickens or otherwise alters the appearance of the natural nail by artificial means. These include the application of tips, acrylic liquid and powder systems, gel systems, sculpting on a form, any type of fabric wrap or even the application of a full preformed artificial nail.

Be aware that acrylic nails contain chemicals that can cause allergic reactions, damage nails and encourage fungal infections that may turn the bed of the nail green if used incorrectly. Acrylic nails prevent nail ventilation, allowing fungi and bacteria to grow. There is also some evidence that ingredients in acrylic nails can penetrate the nail's matrix.

Infection is not the only potential problem if you keep your nails permanently under wraps. Others are cracking, splitting and discoloration. If you decide that false nails are for you, take note of these nail-saving tactics:

• Avoid wearing false nails for more than a week at a time, and give your own nails at least two days' break in-between.
• If you notice any green or yellowish discoloration of the nail bed, consult your doctor or dermatologist; it could signify a fungal or bacterial infection.
• Be careful when cleaning under your nails; use a brush and soapy water or an ear-bud, never an orange stick, which can be quite sharp, unless covered with a twist of cottonwool.
• Replenish lost moisture by giving nails an oil massage.

Acrylic nails: To create acrylic nails, a nail technician mixes together two ingredients called powdered polymer and liquid monomer. When combined, the powder and liquid react to form a plastic-like paste. This is smoothed onto the nail, where it hardens. Note that the monomer used in acrylics is potentially irritating to sensitive skins.

Acrylic tips are sculpted on a form. Various types of guides can be used.


Acrylic Tips: Tips do not cover the entire nail but are attached midway up the natural nail, and the surface is later buffed down to hide the join. Acrylic is then placed over the entire nail and tip.

Built-tips: Oval paper or metal is inserted under the nail before acrylic is painted on and allowed to set. Finally, the tip is filed to your chosen shape.

Gel nails: These are created by applying layers of acrylic gel to the nail; the layers combine and harden to form a solid natural-looking nail enhancement.

False nails: These can be applied professionally in a salon or you can apply them at home, using an inexpensive nail enhancement kit. They come with their own adhesive and can be cut and filed to a shape and size suits you.

Stick-on nails: Pre-cast plastic nail shapes are applied with a special fixative or double-sided tape. They can be applied at home and look natural as long as you choose the right size. Most suppliers offer a variety of nail widths.

Patching: If you split or break a nail, it can be repaired with a patch that works on the same principle as a sticking plaster on skin. Inexpensive DIY repair-a-nail kits are available for you to use at home, or patches can be applied at a salon by a professional.

Wraps: To ad a stronger layer to the nail to help nails grow longer without breaking or splitting, nail wraps use sheets of fibreglass, linen, or silk. To create nail wraps, a nail technician takes small pieces of fabric mesh and sticks them to your nails with and adhesive. After buffing the surface to smooth it, a sealant is applied to keep out moisture and discourage the wrap from lifting. Wraps can also be used to rescue a single broken nail.












Try stick-on nails for an instant lift: to look natural choose the right size.