ORB Hair Co.’s Nails + Hands
Nail extensions are a length enhancement added to your natural nail. They are typically done in acrylic or gel, both have their place in the nail world. Enhancements can be done in a sculpted form, which uses a paper form placed beneath the free edge of nail. The extension is then built by hand on top of the paper form. Alternatively you can use a tip. The tip is glued to the top of the nail and the extension is built in the acrylic or gel over the tip. We only use sculpted forms at ORB Hair Co. We prefer these for a few reasons. One being they more customizable in terms of shape and dimensions. With the form method we are able to create a more “curled” effect to the nail by pinching the form and nail as it sets. As well as they tend to be more comfortable once the form is taken off and the nails are set. With tips they are a little bit quicker but you are married to the shape of the tip, and they can feel a little cumbersome when trying to find the perfect fit for every individual nail. There can also be some extra glue under the nail. Any of you who have had tips know what I am talking about.
What to choose, gel or acrylic?
Gel nail extensions are lighter and slightly softer than acrylic. Gel nail extensions consist of a molecule called an oligomer that usually comes in a pot and is the consistency of honey. Nail enhancements are created when the hard or semi-hard gel is sculpted, cured, and then shaped to add length and strength to the nail.
There are two basic types: hard gel and soft gel. In short, hard gels are non-porous, making them acetone-resistant. These enhancements have a good fortitude and are able to be worn with a nail extension. Soft gels (like classic gel polish) are porous. That’s why they can be soaked off with acetone and are not a viable product to be used for nail extensions.
Acrylic is a system that combines acrylic powder and a monomer. Traditionally we know the smell of a nail salon by this method of nail enhancement as the monomer has always had a very odorous smell. We use an odour free monomer here at ORB Hair Co. So we can have the strength of an acrylic without the odour. Acrylic is harder than gel, this can make it a better fit for some peoples lifestyles. Acrylic comes in colours as well so if you like a neutral nail you can have the entire thing built out of that and simply put a clear coat of gel polish overtop to seal it.
At the end of the day you will find what works for your nails by trying one and learning from the experience. Come in and have a consultation with our nail technician for more information or if you need some help choosing. We are here to help and are more than happy to do so.
Fabulous Nails, Fabulous You
Contact our professional salon for more information and a detailed consultation prior to your appointment.