NAIL TIPS

Preformed nail tips are attached to the natural nails with nail glue and generally applied halfway down the nail plate. For a smoother finish, some nail technicians may apply acrylics, gels or wraps over either the natural 'untipped' nail or both the natural nail and the new tip. The entire shape is then filed into the length and shape you want. You can buy nail enhancement kits that contain tips but because of the chemicals involved, your best option is to visit a nail technician. The basics are explained here to help you understand the process.



APPLY TIP

The natural nail surfaces are buffed to remove shine and the free edge is filed into shape. One drop of nail adhesive is applied to the nail tip, which is held at a 45-degree angle and positioned correctly by placing the top of the tip at the free edge. The tip is rolled back and pressed down, holding it in place for a few seconds until it is secure.





FILL SEAM WITH ACRYLIC

The tip seam is blended and filled with acrylic gel.















SMOOTH ACRYLIC GEL

While still wet, the acrylic is smoothed with a brush.















DRY NAILS

The nails are dried using a specially ultraviolet lamp. Later, the nails are buffed and smoothed. They are then finished according to your personal preference - basecoat, two coats of varnish if you choose to use colour, and a topcoat to finish.