Hands are the calling card of every woman, so they should always be well-groomed. Long nails have long been in fashion, but it’s not always possible to grow a chic manicure. For several decades, representatives of the fair sex have been using extension services in salons, and some do false nails themselves. The result is original options that evoke envy and surprise on the part of others.
Let's consider what is needed for nail extensions, a list of materials and tools, as well as the sequence of work.
What material are nail files made of?
Currently, there are a huge variety of material options from which this tool can be made to create a beautiful manicure. For example:
- glass;
- plastic;
- paper;
- ceramics;
- metal;
- diamond file.
Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Glass
A tool made of glass can be considered the most reliable when used to create a beautiful and neat nail shape. She gently files nails without damaging the nail plate. At a price such a manicure set is affordable to everyone.
In stores you can come across products of different shapes, colors and sizes. This product is an excellent option to use on your nails; it also allows you to seal the free edge of the nail. If you use a nail file daily, it will lose its quality in about a year. After this it needs to be changed.
Advantages:
- allows you to process not only the natural nail plate;
- It is possible to polish the surface of the nail.
Flaws:
- fragility.
Ceramic
Due to the ceramic coating, this product is of very high quality. It does not have pronounced rigidity, and therefore is suitable for use on thin nails, or nails after gel coating.
This file is one of the tools used in salons. In addition to it, cutters designed for manicure are made from ceramics. This product perfectly seals the edge of the nail.
Advantages:
- durability;
- multifunctionality.
Flaws:
- high price.
Diamond
Professionals in the field of manicure call such products laser. They went on sale a very short period of time ago and became a real sensation.
This file allows you to process the nail surface in all directions, while other models do not have this ability.
Advantages:
- prevents plate delamination;
- Suitable for use on both natural and gel nails.
Flaws:
- high price.
These files are used in salons because they are more suitable for professional use.
Metal
Products made of metal should not be used to treat your nails, as this is harmful. They are best suited for nails coated with gel or gel polish.
When using metal products on natural nail plates, damage may occur. For example, the nail plate will delaminate or cracks will appear. Therefore, even when used on artificial surfaces, caution should be exercised.
Advantages:
- durability;
- strength;
- low cost;
- Can be used on brittle nails.
Flaws:
- dangerous.
This manicure set comes in different shapes and sizes. For home use, it is better to buy models with a fine-grained and coarse-grained structure. Using one you can file the surface, and the second will allow you to give the desired shape.
Paper
These files have a thick cardboard base, onto which a working coating is applied. They are suitable for one-time use and their cost is quite low. The working coating is located on both sides, which allows you to use this tool longer.
Such products attract attention due to their bright design. They are common and can be purchased at any store or stall.
Advantages:
- availability;
- bright design.
Flaws:
- short service life;
- high thickness.
Plastic
This tool has a plastic base. Depending on whether it is foamed or smooth, the purpose of the nail file is determined. In the first case, it can be used for filing, in the second - for grinding. Products are available in different lengths and shapes. The price is quite low. Some of them may be flexible. This property is made to make it possible to treat a weakened or thinned nail plate.
Advantages:
- long service life;
- big choice;
- price;
- the ability to sterilize the product.
Flaws:
- no significant ones.
How to care for nail files
Everything that touches your body should be clean, and manicure files are no exception. Therefore, after each use, wash them in soapy warm water. Ceramic, glass, crystal files are easy to clean and last a long time. But, on the other hand, they are made of fragile material and require careful handling. Store them in a special case and do not expose them to very high or very low temperatures.
The metal file is not afraid of either heat or cold. It is very easy to care for: it can be washed, disinfected and even sterilized.
Hardness or abrasiveness of files
Abrasiveness is the main criterion by which a file is selected. The higher the degree of abrasiveness, the more gentle the effect on the nail plate. It turns out that the smallest particles are applied to the file with the highest degree of hardness, which do not cause damage.
Abrasiveness is measured in grits. It is recommended to use files with a coating hardness of 180 to 240 grit for your nails. For gel ones, it is better to choose a range of 100 grit or less.
- From 50 to 80
This is the highest indicator of hardness. It is suitable for shortening the length of gel coating plates. It is contraindicated to use it on a natural nail plate.
- From 90 to 140
This degree of rigidity makes it possible to correct the shape of gel-coated nail plates. For natural ones, use is also prohibited.
- From 150 to 230
Helps correct the shape of extended nails. Can sometimes be used to shorten long natural nail plates. Has a medium level of hardness.
- From 240 to 420
The best option would be such rigidity for a natural plate. It will help you adjust both the length and give the desired shape.
- From 450 to 850
Designed to smooth the nail plate and remove rough surfaces. More suitable for polishing.
- From 900 to 1300
Such files or buffs are used to add shine to the nail plates and polish them. Can be used on all types of nails.
What do you need to do acrylic nail extensions?
The technology of adding length using acrylic involves the use of the following materials and tools:
- pusher
- primer
- degreaser
- acrylic brush
- sanding files
- dust brush
- powder and monomer
- tweezers for shaping, but you can do this with your finger
To lengthen the nail plate with acrylic, you will need files of different lengths, shapes and functionality (abrasiveness from 80 to 100 grit).
Choosing a manicure tool
To choose the right nail tool, you need to pay attention to the following criteria:
- condition of the nail plate;
- the material from which the tool is made;
- product rigidity.
The condition of the nail plate determines what material you should choose from and what abrasiveness it will have. And also, do you have gel-coated nails or natural ones? If you have weakened nails, or there are separations of the nail plate or brittleness, you should select paper files. Their degree of hardness should vary from 240 grit. What material to buy a nail file from depends on how long you plan to use it. The material also affects the quality of the manicure. You should not buy professional nail files for home use, as you can damage your nails and ruin your manicure.
Abrasiveness is a criterion that is one of the key values when choosing a product. This characteristic is responsible for the rigidity of the machining surface of the tool. The lower this indicator, the higher the rigidity. Therefore, before purchasing, you should study these indicators so as not to make a mistake with your choice.
What is needed for nail extensions on forms?
It’s the same with both types and forms. You purchase materials and tools, and choose forms instead of tips. Many women are interested in what is needed for nail extensions on forms? As mentioned above, forms are reusable (metal and plastic) and disposable (paper).
Reusable shaped plates are easier to fix on your finger, but paper ones will have to be placed using tweezers or nail scissors. Shapes made of paper are easy to cut and give the desired look.
IMPORTANT: Transparent polyethylene molds are available for sale. Their advantage is that they transmit UV rays well when drying.
Manufacturers rating
Currently, the market for companies producing this tool is quite diverse. Therefore, you should carefully choose a nail file only from trusted companies.
It’s up to you to decide which company to choose the product, but the highest quality products are produced by the following brands:
- Scholl;
- Sinbo;
- Zinger;
- Mertz;
- Bohemia Glass;
- Velganza;
- Visage Studio;
- TNL Professional;
- Qvs.
The first company on the list is an American brand that specializes in the production of electric saws.
The second brand is a representative of Turkey. It produces entire manicure sets that allow you to change the attachments on the product. This allows you to make the nail device multifunctional.
The German brand Zinger produces manicure sets. All of the products are made of high-quality steel, which has gold or silver plating.
The Mertz brand is also representative of the German market. The cost of their products can be attributed to the average price category. The service life of such manicure tools is quite long.
The representative of the Czech market is the company Bohemia Glass. Basically, the brand specializes in the production of glass products. Many of the files have a working surface on both sides.
The Israeli brand Velganza produces laser files that can be used to remove peeling skin on the hands and feet.
The Russian company Studio Visage specializes in the production of manicure sets and various types of nail files. In their assortment you can even find disposable tools for performing manicures.
Another representative of the American market is OPI Products. The brand produces both professional tools and tools for home use. Their rulers make it possible to choose files with different degrees of hardness. This allows you to choose a product for different purposes.
The Korean brand TNL Professional produces professional cosmetics for nail care. Their products are quite durable and have a stylish and bright design. As a rule, products have two working surfaces.
The Qvs brand is representative of the Australian market. The products are made from high quality steel produced in Norway. The tools have a long service life.
What do you need for nail extensions? Photo
So, let’s summarize what you need for nail extensions. Photos will help you see more clearly which jars, brushes and files to purchase for this process. What should a master's workplace look like? This is important for women who want to receive clients at home and receive money for a product of beauty.
Rating of nail files
SchollVelvetSmooth
The first place in the ranking of nail tools is occupied by an electric nail file from the Scholl brand. It has a compact size, which makes it easy to carry in your purse. Allows you to care for both your nails and your toes. There are several operating speeds.
SchollVelvetSmooth
Advantages:
- Does not damage the nail plate;
- Possibility of changing attachments;
- Compact;
- Several operating speeds.
Flaws:
- Batteries are not included in the sale.
- A cover is not included with the attachments.
Zinger FE-0505
Second place goes to a laser file from the Zinger brand. The product allows you to quickly give the nail plate the desired shape and also removes excess length. Can be used both for natural nails and those covered with artificial materials. Allows you to cut in any direction. Light weight, so your hand does not get tired when working with the product.
Zinger FE-0505
Advantages:
- Long service life;
- Processes the plate well;
- Allows you to reach hard-to-reach places;
- Fits comfortably in the hand;
- It can be used on the legs.
Flaws:
- Low cutting speed.
Reading user reviews about this model, we can conclude that it is not suitable for cutting lengths; it is better to purchase other models for these purposes. However, for finishing touches with length it is considered an ideal option.
Velganza Glass Nail Shiner Vel3
In third place is a glass product from Velganza. This tool makes it possible to laminate the nail. This product is made of tempered glass, due to this it has a long service life and makes it possible to efficiently process the nail plate. The shape of this product is patented and quite unusual for a glass product.
Velganza Glass Nail Shiner Vel3
Advantages:
- Beautiful and comfortable shape;
- Prevents nail splitting;
- Laminates the surface, which prevents household chemicals from penetrating under the nails;
- Removes all damage.
Flaws:
- The price is quite high.
Based on consumer reviews, we can conclude that this is a safe tool that completely satisfies its users.
O.P.I.
In fourth place is a file with two working surfaces from the ORI brand. One of which makes it possible to give the plate the required shape, and the second performs the function of polishing the surface. It is most often used when working with gel coatings. The weight of the model is quite light, so it does not load the hand.
OPI nail file
Advantages:
- A light weight;
- Does not injure the nail plate;
- Safe;
- Not high cost.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Qvs File 82-10-1662 with spraying
Fifth place is occupied by the Qvs brand tool. This is a nail file made of diamond-coated metal. Thanks to this, it is possible to work with both natural and artificial nails. The device has a fairly high strength, due to this a long service life and increased wear resistance. The raw material is hardened steel, which makes the product high quality.
Qvs File 82-10-1662 with spraying
Advantages:
- Availability of a cover;
- compact size;
- spraying on both sides;
- acceptable price;
- the ability to push back the cuticle.
Flaws:
- Difficulty in working with gel polish.
Based on the reviews, we can conclude that the model is very good and durable. However, for coating with gel or gel polish, it is better to choose a lower abrasiveness.
What you need to buy for nail extensions: list
You can increase the length of your natural nails using gel or acrylic. Each lady independently chooses which of these materials she should use to lengthen her nails.
For this process you need to stock up on tools and materials. You also need patience and perseverance. So, what should you buy for nail extensions? The list consists of the following tools:
- tweezers
- forms, types
- UV light
- brush to remove dust
- grinding tool
- file for creating nail shape
- brush made of natural bristles
- spatula for pushing back cuticles
You will also need the following materials:
- glue
- dehydrator
- bonder, monomer
- acrylic Powder
- top coating
- construction gel
- preparatory solution for work
- spray oil to soften cuticles
- decorations in the form of rhinestones, beads, stickers, feathers
- hand sanitizers, workplace
As a conclusion
It is up to the buyer to decide which model or brand to choose. However, each of the files must meet the following criteria:
- Electronic models must have several attachments. This will make it possible to save on the purchase of other devices.
- Models with diamond coating should make it possible to process the plate in all directions.
- When purchasing metal products, you should pay attention to the quality of the steel. Because the model must be durable, and therefore made from high-quality materials.
- Glass products should be gentle on nails without injuring them. It is advisable that a cover be present when purchasing.
If you do not want to make an artificial coating, but prefer a natural nail plate, then always pay attention to the rigidity of the products. Do not buy metal files as they will damage the plate. When purchasing, you can give preference to disposable manicure sets, since they include everything you need to perform a good manicure.
How to use a nail file
But even the best file will not make your nails beautiful and healthy if you use it incorrectly. Please take into account the advice of the masters:
- Always file your nails by moving the file in one direction. If you file your nails like firewood, you won’t be able to avoid chips and unevenness.
- Be sure to polish the edges of your nails. Again, to avoid chipping.
- If you are going to varnish your nails, sand them first. You will make the surface smoother and the varnish will adhere better.
Follow these simple tips and your nails will always be in order.
What is better shellac or nail extensions?
Every woman knows that as soon as she washes the dishes, the floors or the laundry once, ordinary varnish immediately begins to treacherously peel off. No trace remains of a beautiful manicure.
Shellac coating helps keep your manicure fresh and beautiful for a long time. Thanks to special technologies, shellac gel coating lasts on the nails for about three weeks.
As in the case of the question about gel polish, the answer to the question of what is better than shellac or nail extensions will be clear - everything is individual. If you like your nails, they are beautiful and long, then use shellac.
TIP: You can do extensions once and then choose based on your experience.
What is better gel polish or nail extensions?
There is no definite answer to this question - everything depends on an individual basis. If you don't know which is better, gel polish or nail extensions, look at your nails. If your nails are long and beautiful, then you can simply coat them with gel polish and make a beautiful design.
In addition, the extension process can slightly damage the nail plate - it will become thinner until you remove the artificial nails. After this, your natural nails need to rest for two or three months.
If by nature you are not given the luxury of beautiful nails and they constantly break, then you need extensions.
IMPORTANT: For short and brittle nails, it is recommended to apply extensions.
