I am blessed with what some might call “bad nail genes”. I can’t get my nails to grow no matter what I do. I’ve tried supplements, nail strengtheners, you name it… I just have awful nails. I also have a problem with biting and peeling my nails since they’re so soft and flexible.
My decision to get gel nail enhancement was based mostly on this fact. A lot of women nowadays are also jumping on the artificial nail bandwagon. The two most popular artificial nail enhancements are acrylic and gel. The acrylic nail is the “old school” type of nail. The second type is the gel nail. A powder is mixed with a liquid resin, applied to the nail, and then hardened under UV light. This type of nail is becoming increasingly popular due to advancements in powder colors and composition.
If you’re interested in taking the plunge, please read on for the pros and cons of artificial nail enhancement.
PROS
Prevents bad habits
If you’re like me, you have a few bad habits. Some people bite their nails or chew on their hangnails. I have a problem with picking scabs and popping pimples that aren’t ready to go yet. This has completely eliminated all of my bad habits. I find it difficult to pick any forming scabs (such as when my cat scratches me) or pop pimples, thus reducing my risk of scarring. In addition to not being able to pick at my nails, my hangnails are completely gone. No longer do I have to worry about gaping holes on the sides of my nails that often burn whenever I use hand sanitizer or chop onions.
Back scratcher, anyone?
If you have pets (or even a significant other with an itchy back), you will be a hero. Even scratching your own itches feel 10x better with artificial nails. If you have the squared-off nail edge, you don’t have to worry about running the risk of breaking the skin and causing bleeding.
Built-in guitar picks
If you play a guitar or bass, you have no idea how awesome it is to have artificial nails. It might be a little tough to figure out how to place your fingers on the fret, but the sound you get when you pick or strum the strings can’t be beat.
Beautiful nails, beautiful hands
Having artificial nails just makes your whole hand look better. It creates length and makes your fingers look longer, which is great if you have especially short or stubby fingers. Your rings look more sparkly, and your hands just generally have a healthier appearance to them. Be sure to moisturize to get your hands to really shine.
CONS
Cost
Sometimes the cost of keeping up your nails is enough to get women to stop going to the nail salon. Getting nails put on can cost between $45 – $75 depending on where you go, and you will need a fill every 2 – 3 weeks, which can cost about $25 – $45. Your best bet is to scope out a local nail salon and find out what they charge for nails. Acrylics will always cost less than gel nails. Look in your local clipper magazine for coupons.
Upkeep
Keeping up with your nails is sometimes an arduous job. Sure, you don’t have to worry about them splitting or cracking as much, but going to the nail salon takes about an hour of your time and a lot of us are busy. Try to squeeze in a nail appointment when you can. If you have to, make an appointment ahead of time when you know you’ll have an hour or so to yourself.
Some people have the misfortune of being allergic to nail enhancement products. I know that when I usually get my nails done, sometimes my cuticles get raw and red and hurt for a few days afterward. If you’re allergic to nail polish remover or acetone, it might not be a good idea to get your nails enhanced.
The little things you take for granted
When you get your new nails, you’re going to feel awesome! But when you go to pick up a quarter off the floor, or open a can of Diet Coke, you’re quickly going to realize that you have an extra obstacle in your way. My advice is to keep your nails short, so that you can pick up flat objects more easily. You can always open your can of soda by prying the tab with a letter opener or scissors, but I usually just go for the gusto and open it with my nail. It feels weird at first, but you’ll get used to it. Texting is a whole ‘nother story… best to just practice this as best you can or learn to love typos!
My nails grow fast…!
I was surprised to see how fast my nails actually grew once I put the nail enhancements on. Don’t let them get too long or you’ll find yourself with typos or sore fingers after a day at the office. Invest in a good nail file; I recommend crystal files or disposable rough files and keep filing until you get them to a manageable length. You can always go to your nail salon and ask them to trim them down for you but that usually costs money.
If you find yourself no longer wanting your nail enhancements, there are a few options for removal.
Let the nails grow out. See my aforementioned paragraph about filing. You can also trim the nail with a pair of toenail scissors (I also used a pair of cat nail trimmers) and file it down to a smooth, straight line.
Go to the nail salon and ask them to take off the nails. This will cost money (sometimes as much as a pedicure!) so be prepared to pay. Personally, I like the first option, even though it’s unbearably long and I am short on patience.
Hopefully this guide has helped you with your decision to get nail enhancements. I love my new nails and hope to keep them for a long time. Remember that there are always risks with any cosmetic procedure (even getting your hair cut) so be careful and do your research.
