Gel: Gel manicures most closely resemble your natural nail, and are less damaging to the nail plate. Gel manicures last at least two weeks, depending on maintenance. They are applied like normal nail polish. Gel manicures require an ultraviolet (UV) light for drying and setting. Gel nail kits are generally more expensive than the other options, especially if the kit includes a UV light. Price range: $30-$120. [1] X Research source Acrylic: Acrylic manicures last about two weeks. They look more natural than press-on nails, less natural than gel nails. Prolonged use of acrylic nails can cause damage to your natural nail. Price range: $8-$20. Press-Ons: Press-on nails are the easiest to apply at home, but only last about one week. They are also the least-natural looking of these options. Press-on manicures cause minimal damage to your natural nail, and are easier to remove. They are also easy to repair; if a press-on nail falls off, you can easily glue it back into place. If well-maintained, press-on nails can be reused. Price range: $5-$10. [2] X Research source
Wash your hands with antibacterial soap to remove any dirt, oils, or lotion. Use a manicure brush to clean under your nails effectively. Alternatively, use a wet wipe wrapped around a manicure stick or an eyelash spoolie brush to clean the underside of your nails. Clean nails with nail polish remover. Acetone-based remover is more effective for acrylic nails, but it is harsher on your naturals nails. [4] X Research source [5] X Research source Cut and file your nails. Apply cuticle oil or cream to your cuticles before pushing them back with a cuticle pusher. Buff your nails. Re-clean your hands and nails to remove any dust caused by filing and buffing. Dehydrate your nails using acetone-based remover or a nail dehydrating solution. This helps nail polish and artificial nails to stay on longer. [6] X Research source Apply a nail base coat over your natural nails to protect them.
Gel Nails Add some extra drying time under the UV light at the end of your gel manicure to make sure your nails cure completely and to prevent chipping. [7] X Research source Acrylic Nails File down the base of your artificial nail tip so it is as even as possible with the surface of your natural nail. Apply acrylic solution evenly across the nail bed so that the thickness of the acrylic nail corresponds with the thickness of your natural nail. [8] X Research source Press-On Nails Use the tip of the nail glue to spread it evenly onto your nail. Apply even pressure to press-on nails to help them stay on longer. [9] X Research source
