Acrylic Nails
Acrylics are the oldest form of nail extension in the modern beauty industry, and have long since been a staple due to their staying power. The acrylic itself is a mixture of liquid monomer and a powder polymer, which when combined form a hard protective layer that is sculpted over the natural nail.
Acrylic nail extensions will only become hard when exposed to air, and when this happens and the process is complete the nails become a strong and glossy base that is a fantastic for colour application.
The procedure is a multi-step process that usually involves preparing the natural nail by cleaning, shaping, buffing and cuticle work, before then applying artificial tips to add length (if required) and the acrylic on top.
Advantages of Acrylic Nails
- Acrylic nails are very strong and durable and can last a long time.
- You can soak off acrylic nails at home without the help of a professional.
- Generally cheaper than gel nail application.
- Great for adding length to short nails.
Gel Nails
Powder Gel is the latest material used for Nail Extensions, Gel Powder is like Acrylic, however the nails look more Clear, thinner and natural. We offer a range of services using Gel powder, being applied on natural nails, with tips or as an in-fills.
A paste is formed from a gel powder and liquid, the Gel is applied using a brush and quickly reaches the target of a gorgeous set of nails. For a set of Gel nails, we use the same format as with the acrylic powder, first of all we will apply a primer to the prepared natural nail. The primer is then allowed to dry before dipping the brush into the Gel liquid picking up a small bead before applying it to the nail and spreading it evenly.
This process is repeated until the whole of the nail is coated completely. Filing and shaping follows, finally being buffed to a high shine finish.
Advantages of Gel Nails
- Gel does not cause damage to the natural nail and can be used to strengthen, protect and promote growth in the natural nail.
- Gel is odourless unlike some acrylic or liquid powder nail systems. Gel is also more flexible.
- Gel is considered to be a safer and more environmentally friendly option to acrylics.
Manicure and Pedicure
A manicure is a cosmetic beauty treatment for the hands and fingernails and has been around for almost 5000 years. The word “manicure” actually comes from the Latinmanus, meaning “hand”, and cura meaning “care”. A standard manicure usually includes filing and shaping the nails and coating them with nail polish, as well as soaking and moisturising the hands.
A pedicure is a cosmetic beauty treatment for the feet and toenails, and can also help to prevent nail diseases such as Athlete’s Foot, fungus and ingrown toenails. The word pedicure comes from the Latin word pes, meaning “foot”, and cura meaning “care”. The best pedicures not only make your toes beautiful, but also include lower leg and foot massages to totally revive your feet. Your feet should end up smooth and moisturised, and your toes perfectly shaped and polished – a pedicure is basically a manicure for the feet! As with manicures, you may also decide to have some nail art on your toes.
However, we can also provide specialist manicures and pedicure for just the hands or feet, or just as a nail treatment should you prefer. All our manicures and pedicures can also include artificial nails and/or nail art so it’s up to you if you want to glam it up.
3D Nail Art
3D nail art is three-dimensional artwork created on the fingernails. The design is created on acrylic or gel nails, which are then applied over the wearer’s natural fingernails.
Flowers are one of the most common 3D nail art creations, and the petals and leaves stick up from the surface of the nail for a dramatic look. Many people choose to wear nail art simply because it looks different and attractive, although many use it for special formal occasions, like a wedding.
When designing the 3D piece, the artist starts with a colored background on the nail itself. This can be as simple as a clear coating for shine or a colorful coating with glitter for extra sparkle. The piece is added on top using a small amount of clear adhesive. Often, the 3D art is colorful and can be painted over with a clear or glitter top-coat of nail polish.
Nail art requires extra caution and care to avoid breaking the 3D creations off. While the pieces can be applied to real nails, they are often better suited to acrylics because the nails are stronger and longer, providing more room for the piece.
Gel Polish
If you love the idea of keeping your natural nail and are happy with the length of your nail but wish to have a long lasting nail polish then Gel Polish is the right choice for you. We only use high quality products like Shellac or Gelish polish to enhance the beautiful look of your natural nail without worries of colour chipping away so quickly. You could always have a touch of free-hand nail art on them too as well as gems or bit of sparkle. Why not shine your natural nails up with pride.
SNS Dipping Powder
SNS is a nail dipping system that uses a brush-on gel base on the nail, which is then dipped in a powder. The powder comes in natural pink and white for a french manicure look, as well as a range of colours.