Fusion

I currently use OPI Clarite acrylic products to produce all of my nails enhancements.  It is a low odour, quality acrylic system.

Acrylic Nail Enhancements are a popular form of nail extension which transform your hands to look beautiful.  They are strong and can last months, sometimes years with regular infills!  Acrylic is a very natural looking nail extension.  As long as the acrylic nail is applied and removed properly by a trained technician no damage to the natural nail will occur.

Types of acrylic extensions........

Acrylic Extension Tips - This is when a tip is applied to the natural nail after (if need be) it has been shortened, blended in smooth to the natural nail and then covered with acrylic.  This is an ideal form of extension to use on nail biters and those with shorter nails.  Nail biters may find this useful if they wish to grow their nails out under the extensions.

Acryilc Sculptured Extensions - This is when a 'form' (sticky foil) is used underneath the free edge of the nail.  The acrylic is then applied over the natural nail and extended out on top of the form.  The form is then removed from underneath the nail once the acrylic is set.  This means that no tip has to be applied to the nail.  This type of extenstion is ideal for those with a bit of length to their nails already.

Acrylic Overlays - This is where the natural nail has a layer of acrylic applied to it.  It is ideal for those with weak nails who would like to benefit from the strength of acrylic.

When your acrylic nail extensions have been applied, it is important that they are cared for correctly.  The following is a guide to help with aftercare of your new nails:-

• Avoid hand creams, baby lotions, baby oil etc that contain lanolin which breaks down the acrylic.  Use hand cream that is more like a lotion which sinks into the skin, not one that lies on top of the skin like a barrier cream.  Some shampoos and conditioners also contain lanolin.  Shampoos you could use are Herbal Essence and Supersoft by Schwarzkopf - these have been used with no effect to the acrylic.  Shampoos and conditioners like Pantene, Flex, Organics, Timotei and Elvive have been know to effect the acrylic.
• Avoid cleaning products - wear rubber gloves even when you are washing up.
• Do not let your new nails get too long for your lifestyle.  If they are allowed to do so they will be more prone to breaking.  If you need to shorten your artificial nails between appointments use a 240 grit nail file.
• NEVER use your nails as 'tools'.  They will break!!  You should always avoid causing physical damage to your nails.  Never pick at any rough edges as this will result in the acrylic lifting from your natural nail.  Use a nail file to remove any rough edges - blend any lifting of product by holding the file flat to the area and gently filing in the direction of the lifted material until it is removed.  DO NOT OVERFILE OR FILE THE NATURAL NAIL!  To reseal the product, drop cuticle oil on the area and buff.  Alternatively, return to your nail technician.
• Apply cuticle oil daily to help keep your nails nourished and keep your acrylic nails flexible.
• Nail extensions are a great way to discourage nail biters - but if you are one, make sure that you return to your nail technician for maintenance before you are tempted to bite or pick!

 Helen's nails before acryilc was applied.

Helen's extensions during application of acrylic.

Helen's completed acrylic extensions.