Expert: Ambercinque - 10/29/2006

Question
Hi,I am Haley and 13 years old. I really want fake nails but I don't know what acrylic and gel means and am scared of infection. Please help me understand more about fake nails so I won't look like an idiot when I go to the salon.

Answer
Hi Haley.
I will make it simple for you.
Acrylic is applied usually using a nail tip to add length to your natural nails. It is a mixture of a powder and liquid that harden when applied over the tip/nail.
Gel is a goopy gel that is applied the same way but hardened using a UV light.
Both require regular maintenance, a fill every two wks which can be costly not to mention if you break or chip a nail which needs repair and can be costly.

It should never hurt to have your nails done. If it does your tech is doing something wrong.

Infection occurs when the nail tech is not using properly sanitzied implements and clean files.
Be sure when you sit down the table is clean, they are using brand new files or band(electric file) on you, that they use a freshly sanitized implement(pusher,clippers,etc.).If they pull it from a jar with solution look at the solution if it has floatys or is cloudy LEAVE. This means that anything soaking in the solution is soaking in bacteria.
Also there is risk of fungus. Fungus occurs when moisture is trapped under the nail. This happens from improper prep and or if your nail(fake nail) lifts and water or liquid gets trapped under it and creates the proper environment.
I recommend a good manicure instead. Its more cost efficient and your natural nails will look good in no time.
Good Luck
AMber