Long, luxurious hair is the dream of many girls. But grooming and nurturing your own curls to the desired length is very long, especially if you recently made a short haircut. Let's try to figure out whether it is possible to make extensions on very short hair and maybe you will be able to get a Rapunzel-style hairstyle in just a few hours. Besides, modern technology It will help make thinning hair thicker and more voluminous. And even garcon and pixie haircuts are not restrictions on the procedure!
Features of the procedure
Curls are considered short, the length of which does not exceed 10, according to other classifications - 15 or even 18 centimeters. Many hairdressers are guided by the fact that the edges of such strands should not go below the earlobes. In any case, until relatively recently, lengthening short hair seemed an impossible task.
Most of the masters in the salons got down to business only if the hair reached 10–20 centimeters. With the development of technology, the minimum figure has been reduced to 4–5 centimeters.
During the procedure, thin bundles of natural hair are attached to your own strands using various techniques. Before this, the material is pre-treated: cleaned, painted. The longer the stackable curls, the more expensive the service will cost the client. Sometimes hairdressers refuse to perform the procedure, but usually this indicates their lack of qualifications, lack of confidence in their abilities, or unwillingness to engage in labor-intensive work.
Extension, especially for short hair, is a creative process, and the end result depends on how conscientiously the master approaches the task. Difficulties are added by asymmetric haircuts, because in this case you will have to fasten the strands not strictly along the parting, but in a non-standard order.
The specialist must ensure that the joints are invisible. He will probably have to shape the silhouette of the hairstyle in a special way, perhaps make a cascade or thinning. Therefore, focus not only on the quality of the build-up material, but also on the qualifications of the hairdresser.
Attention! The most difficult thing is to choose donor bundles for curly curls. Read more about curly and wavy hair extensions on our website.
Length restrictions
Depending on the technology used, the original length can be very short. So, the microcapsule method or Diamond Hair allows you to work with 5-centimeter curls. For strands from 3 centimeters, the Extend Magic method was invented.
Although this is not the limit: now they even lengthen hair that has grown only a centimeter. A technique that allows this is called Dream Hairs.
If you do not know if it is possible to grow strands on your short hair- Sign up for a consultation. The master must correctly explain what opportunities for the procedure your haircut opens up specifically, and also explain how much longer it can become:
- 5-7 cm hair can be extended to the shoulders;
- hair 10-15 centimeters - up to half a meter. For longer options, a minimum of 20 cm stock of your own strands is required.
Luxurious curls to the waist, attached to short haircut, will become an exorbitant burden for the whole head, so do not demand the impossible from the master.
Price
The cost of the service is determined on an individual basis. The final price depends on the complexity of the work, the density and length of the curls (both your own and the extensions), the chosen technology, the number of bundles of donor material and other factors. Based on this, you can meet 5,000 rubles, or you can spend 10-20 thousand rubles.
Not all salons offer hair extensions, including short haircuts.
Contraindications
You can not lengthen hair of any length if it is weakened, damaged by recent dyeing or perm, fall out heavily. Also refuse the procedure in such cases:
- taking strong antibiotics;
- undergoing a course of chemotherapy;
- inflammation, wounds on the head;
- skin ailments, including seborrhea.
Advice. Building up at the age of 18 years can adversely affect the condition of the curls in the future, weaken them.
Methods
There are two main ways to attach strands: hot and cold. In the first case, the bundles are attached to native hair using molten resin, similar to candle wax. The cold version excludes thermal effects on the hair. Glue, beads, small capsules are used here. Any of the methods is divided into technologies (English, Spanish, Italian and others), but not all of them are optimal for concise haircuts.
Here are the characteristics of techniques that will easily lengthen short strands. They are called microencapsulated because tiny particles are used to attach donor beams:
- Bellargo and Microbellargo. The technique does not weigh down the hairstyle, because it does not involve fastening a large number overhead curls. As a rule, they require about a hundred. The strands are fixed with special polymers, which are difficult to see even on short hair. The extension process lasts quickly, about 1.5 hours.
- Diamond hair. Refers to the hot method. Small capsules are attached to natural hair with glue heated to a temperature of 120 ° C. The name of the method was not chosen by chance: the adhesive composition contains diamond microparticles that improve the structure of the hair. The duration of this procedure is about 3-4 hours. Read more about Diamond Hair extensions on our website.
- dream hair. If you look at the implementation of this technology from the side or on video, you will surely compare the work of a hairdresser with the skill of a jeweler. The extended strands are attached to very thin native curls with the help of microcapsules, which include fortified keratin. The work is long, painstaking and time-consuming, but the result is worth it: it is almost impossible to see the attachment points. Thanks to this technique, it is even used for bangs or hair that has grown no more than a centimeter in the crown and temples. The number of donor bundles is approximately 200–250 pieces.
- Extend magic. It is considered a cold technology for microencapsulation, because the temperature of the adhesive does not exceed 90 °C. For the procedure itself, a transparent wax is taken, which over time adjusts to the desired hair color. The capsules are very small, like a grain of rice, and invisible. One procedure requires from 100 to 200 extension strands. The method is applied on hair with a length of 3 centimeters.
Photos before and after
Effect Duration
New microcapsule technologies, which make the results of the procedure invisible to others, make it possible to resort to correction less often. On average, an update of the hairstyle is required every 3-5 months. Much depends on how fast your haircut grows. Sometimes you have to visit the master every 2-3 months. During the correction, the hairdresser will remove the donor bundles and reattach them after processing.
Attention! It is strictly forbidden to remove overhead strands on your own. This should only be done by a specialist.
Pros and cons
Building with the help of microcapsule technologies has many significant advantages:
- fast transformation;
- cardinal change of image;
- the ability to visit the pool and sauna, swim in the sea, which cannot be done in the case of some other methods;
- natural appearance;
- weightlessness of capsules, the convenience of wearing strands;
- sparing effect on native hair;
- the ability to lengthen even very short curls;
- long-term effect, no need to often come to the salon for correction;
- minimum list of restrictions;
- application in any part of the head.
But even such modern methods have their own limitations:
- very high cost, due, among other things, to the complexity of the work;
- the duration of the procedure sometimes reaches 5 hours;
- the presence of contraindications and restrictions on care;
- the impossibility in some cases to give the hair additional volume.
Before deciding on the procedure, look through the thematic reviews with photos.
With the right technology and careful care, false curls will not create problems for you. The main thing is to prevent their entanglement in a timely manner. New microcapsule methods will allow you to treat strands as if they were your own: dye them, style them, dry them with a hairdryer. However, it is still worth asking the master who will lengthen your hairstyle for specific care rules and a list of restrictions.
Useful videos
Hair extensions for short hair.
Microcapsular hair extensions for short hair.
Nail extensions are one of the most sought-after personal care procedures today. Many girls dream of graceful and neat fingers. Beauty salons and manicurists help them with this. But extensions can be done on your own. To do this, you need to study the technique of performing the procedure and buy the necessary materials.
- on tips;
- on forms;
- with the application of the material on the nail;
- according to a special form;
- on liquid tips.
Tips are special plates made of plastic. They are glued to the nail, given the required length, and then gel or acrylic is applied. The color varies from transparent to white. The form is selected individually with the help of the wizard. The advantage of extensions on tips is that only a small part of the nail plate is involved in the procedure. Due to this, its harm is minimized.
When building on tips, the drawing is performed after the plate is attached to the nail
How to use iodine for the beauty and health of nails:
Forms are disposable paper base. Outside, it is covered with a special gel that prevents the applied material from sticking to it too firmly. Inside the base there is a composition due to which the form is well attached to the surface. Too much short nails not suitable for this procedure.
Building with a paper form is one of the most simple methods procedure
Building with the application of the material directly on the nail is suitable for brittle nails prone to delamination.
- Acrylic is applied to silicone molds from the inside.
- The plate is applied to the nail and held for about a minute.
- The form is released and left for 120 seconds. If gel extensions are used, the silicone plate is held for several minutes under a UV lamp.
- With the help of a nail file, the nail is brought to the desired look.
This procedure is used not only for building, but also for strengthening nails.
Silicone forms for extensions can only be purchased at a specialized store
Extensions can be made using a special mold. Such a nail initially has a decorative surface, you do not need to draw anything on it.
Decorated nails are very convenient to use, since they do not require additional effort during the procedure.
To build on liquid tips, the forms can be made independently from acrylic or gel. The plate is applied to the nail on 2/3 of the surface. Otherwise, the technology is the same as when using silicone molds.
The time it takes for the procedure
Depending on the design and professionalism of the master, the extension can last 2.5–3.5 hours. Of course, everything is individual. If the nails initially need serious processing, the procedure can take up to 4 hours.
How long do extended nails last
The time that the plates hold is always individual. It depends on the rate of nail growth, proper care and your lifestyle. Usually after a month it is necessary to make a correction or remove the forms. If the nails grow too fast, the procedure should be carried out twice as often.
With regular correction, gel nails last up to six months.
Rules for the care of extended nails:
- protect your fingers from sharp blows;
- visit the master on time to make a correction;
- use nail polish remover without acetone;
- apply the base before varnishing the nails;
- use gloves when washing dishes, washing and cleaning;
- protect your nails from exposure to high and low temperatures.
When cleaning, be sure to wear gloves if you have extended nails
The following factors should also be taken into account: environment and quality of materials. If the master used cheap components when working, it is unlikely that new nails will please you for a long time. The following specialist errors can also reduce the wearing time:
- incorrectly done preparation - the primer or bonder was inaccurately applied, the dehydrator was not used;
- distorted application sequence or inappropriate layer thickness;
- too long or too fast drying;
- incorrectly formed arch of the nail;
- unsealed free edge.
You should be careful about what you do with your own hands. Try not to hit the zippers when zipping up, do not flick your fingers on the table, and do not type on the keyboard too often. Even small blows can break the nail.
Table: pros and cons of extended nails
Nail extension at home
To carry out nail extension at home, you need to know certain rules, stages of the procedure and other nuances.
Basic rules for nail extension
In order for extended nails to last longer and the procedure to be safe, it is important to follow these rules:
- do not use hand cream on the day you decide to build nails;
- before building, it is necessary to clean the cuticle;
- do not forget to take mineral and vitamin complexes to minimize the harm from the procedure, pay special attention to calcium;
- before applying the gel or acrylic, it is necessary to degrease the nail with a special tool for maximum bonding;
- choose a design that suits both everyday wear and going out.
Preparation for extension
Thoroughly wash hands for both the master and the client. After that, the palms are treated with a disinfectant. Then it is necessary to soften and push back the cuticle. As a rule, it is not cut off completely when building up, as this can lead to wounds and cuts.
One of the stages in the process of preparing the nail for extension is pushing back the cuticle with an orange stick or other device.
Now, if necessary, you need to shape the nails.
Before building nails, be sure to process with a file
When preparing a nail for extension, it is first necessary to remove the fatty film from the surface, as well as remove moisture and dirt. This can be done with a cotton pad and an alcohol or acetone based product. Then you need to process the nails with a polishing block. It is better to start with the little finger on the right hand, because after half an hour the protective layer is formed again. The nail should be treated in the direction of its growth, otherwise the structure of the plate may be damaged. After that, the last stage remains - disinfection. For its implementation, special means are used, thanks to which the surface is also degreased.
Also, during preparation, it is necessary to determine the shape of future marigolds.
Depending on personal preferences and the initial condition of the nails, you can choose the appropriate shape
Video: preparing natural nails before building
Building stages
Consider the most popular types of extensions: on tips, on forms and with applying the material directly to the nail.
On tips
- First, prepare for building up, which is described above.
- The inner surface of the tips is treated with special glue.
- The plate is applied to the nail and strongly pressed with fingers for 15 seconds.
- Excess glue is removed.
- The plates are cut to the required length, filed to the desired shape.
- With the help of a file, the lines of joining the plate with the nail are cleaned, the surface is treated with a buff until the shine is visible.
- Apply a primer modeling gel and distribute it over the plate.
- Turn your hand over to even out the solution.
- The nail is placed in a special lamp.
- The gel is applied again and dried again.
- A cotton pad is moistened in a special solution and the sticky layer on the nail is removed.
- Sanding with a saw and polishing block upper layer.
- Apply the last layer of the solution and dry.
Video: gel nail extension on tips
On forms
- Perform the preparation, the main stages of which are described above.
- Apply base solution.
- Dry the nail plate in the lamp for about two minutes.
- Remove base coat.
- The form is applied to the nail to check if the center is even.
- The plate is clamped with the help of special devices and fixed on the nail.
- With brush No. 6, gently apply the gel to the surface. There should be a maximum in the center of the solution plate.
- The finger is turned over so that the gel is distributed.
- The nail is dried in a lamp.
- Apply another layer of solution.
- The nail is turned over again, and then dried in a lamp.
- Degrease the surface of the nail with a special tool.
- With the help of a file, the plate is given the necessary shape.
- The grinding block removes irregularities from the surface.
- Apply the last layer of the solution and dry the nail in the lamp.
- Degrease the surface.
Video: gel extension using paper forms
With the application of the material directly on the nail
- Building begins with the preparation described above.
- A suitable plate is selected for each nail.
- A special gel is laid out in the center of the mold.
- Dry the mold in a lamp.
- A little solution is applied to the cuticle.
- The mold is applied to the nail at an angle of 45 degrees.
- Dry the finger in the lamp.
- Remove excess gel.
- Dry the nail again in the lamp.
- The form is carefully removed.
- Using a special solution, the sticky layer is removed from the nail.
- With a nail file, give the plate the desired shape.
Video: extension with the application of material directly to the nail using silicone molds
Extension for the first time
The main thing for the first build-up in life is a choice suitable master. After visiting a professional, you will only have good impressions from the procedure. If you decide to do the extension yourself, try to follow the instructions clearly. The main thing is to thoroughly disinfect tools and hands to avoid unpleasant consequences.
base extension
With the help of the base coat, you can build up nails. The technology does not differ from that described above. The stages of the procedure in this case will be similar to building on tips. The base adheres firmly to the nail, and it can be dissolved in the future only by soaking in a special solution.
Base nail extension is not much different from the classic
Building on yourself
To carry out the procedure at home, you need to buy:
- file;
- polishing block;
- tips;
- disinfectant liquid;
- means for degreasing the surface of the nail;
- brushes;
- ultraviolet lamp;
- acrylic paints.
This list is relevant for building on tips. For other types of procedures, you must additionally purchase the following tools:
- for - special plates;
- with the application of the material directly on the nail - silicone molds;
- according to a special mold - ready-made decorated nails;
- on liquid tips - prepare or buy special acrylic or gel molds.
Be extremely careful and remember: you can’t wet your hands for half an hour after the procedure.
The process of removing extended nails
It is better to go to the salon to remove extended nails. But if you still decide to do it yourself, you will need:
- tweezers or nail scissors;
- acetone;
- cotton pads.
First you need to shorten your nails. To do this, you can use tweezers or nail scissors.
Before removing extended nails, it is necessary to shorten the plates
Then soak cotton pads in acetone and apply to nails. Cut off small pieces of foil and wrap them around your fingers. This is done in order to avoid intoxication with acetone vapor.
After 10 minutes, remove the foil and the remaining acrylic from the nail. You can do this using a file. If you need to remove the gel, you will have to work longer. It is not necessary to cut the material completely. The gel strengthens your nails and is unlikely to interfere with your usual activities.
Extended nails are wrapped in foil when removed so as not to inhale acetone vapors
Do not forget to use the polishing block at the end of the procedure. It is also necessary to lubricate the hands with cream to prevent dry skin.
Remember that in no case should you rip off extended nails. Thus, you can damage your own.
After removing the extended nails, it is imperative to use a polishing block.
Extension errors
When building, it is important to avoid mistakes that can affect appearance and nail health.
Beautiful well-groomed manicure is an important part of the image modern woman. Nail extension technology is not too complicated, you can cope with it without resorting to the services of professional salon masters. An additional bonus with this approach is that you will be 100% sure of the sterility of the instruments and the quality of the materials used. Let's talk about how to grow nails at home, what is needed for this.
Are there any contraindications?
Let's start, oddly enough, with contraindications to avoid trouble. It is impossible to build nails in such cases:
- Problems with the heart and (or) blood vessels.
- Diabetes.
- Circulatory disorders.
- Hypersensitivity to the materials used in the procedure.
- Diseases of the thyroid gland.
- Hormonal disorders.
- Herpes.
- Undergoing chemotherapy.
Important! You need to refrain from building up if you are undergoing antibiotic treatment. In this case, the nails simply will not hold.
Many people ask: is pregnancy a contraindication for nail extensions. Pregnancy itself is not a contraindication, but during the build-up, precautions must be taken:
- The room in which nail extension is performed must be well ventilated.
- Only materials of the highest quality should be used.
- At the end of the procedure, rinse the nose mineral water. This prevents dust from entering the respiratory tract and minimizes the risk of allergies.
In addition, you should not build up nails:
- In case of injury to the nail plates.
- In the presence of viral or fungal diseases.
Important! A few more interesting points about different types manicure, we revealed in the article "The harm and benefits of varnish and gel polish."
Reminder for a beginner
These simple conditions will help you not only do the work according to all the rules, but also long time keep nails in perfect condition:
- Building is preceded by work to remove the cuticle and prepare the nail plate.
- Do not cut your nails too short. Ideally, if they protrude by 1-2 mm.
- On the day of nail extension, you should not use a hot bath. It is also better to refrain from going to the sauna or pool.
- After building, you should be more careful when using hand products, as the nails can exfoliate.
- Has the nail split? It shouldn't be poked. In such a case, only correction will help.
- A few days after the procedure, the skin around the nails needs to be moisturized and nourished. Ideally, if you do this twice a day - in the morning and at night.
- Do not forget about regular correction. It should be done once every two weeks or a month.
- If you are doing self-building for the first time, it is advisable to choose the minimum length.
- Artificial nails are, first of all, decoration. And beauty requires sacrifice. Therefore, all household chores will have to be done with protective gloves.
- Be careful when using sharp objects such as knives, vegetable cutters or graters. Otherwise, you run the risk of being left with a broken nail or even cutting it off.
- Be careful around open flames. All beauty can burn or become covered with a layer of soot.
- Clean the subungual area preferably with a soapy toothbrush. Do not use sharp objects for this.
Types of applied technologies
When building up, 2 types of materials are used: acrylic or gel. The difference between the use of materials lies in the method of hardening:
- Polymerization of acrylic occurs when powder is mixed with a monomer, and both components are present in the gel.
- The consistency of the gel is liquid. Its polymerization occurs only when exposed to UV rays from a special lamp.
Important! If you have no experience with nail extensions, it is advisable to use a gel. It is easier for a beginner to work with him. As for professionals, most of them prefer acrylic. Only with it you can achieve clear natural lines. It is problematic to get a “professional” effect with a gel.
Acrylic is not without such a drawback as a strong smell. Alas, this “aroma” indicates the presence of not just volatile, but also toxic substances. The gel is almost odorless, so it can be used even in a room where there are children.
There are 2 types of extensions - on forms and tips. Forms are rarely used. Tips can significantly reduce the time spent on the entire process. True, elegance suffers in this case.
What is needed to build nails with gel or acrylic?
The first thing you need is a UV lamp. It will be needed, regardless of the chosen technology.
Important! For acrylic, you can use a low-power lamp. As for the colored gel, more powerful UV radiation is needed here. Use our detailed recommendations to choose a good nail lamp for your home.
In addition, to build nails at home, you will need:
- Cuticle pusher.
- Files. Moreover, for acrylic technology, it will need to be more rigid than for gel.
- Glue.
- Forms (they can be replaced with tips).
- Brushes for applying acrylic or gel.
- Tweezers.
You will also need the following types of consumables:
- disinfectant compound.
- Dehydrator - a liquid necessary for drying the nail.
- Primer. It enhances the adhesion of the artificial material to the natural nail.
- Bonder - when using gel technology.
- Gel or acrylic Powder(it all depends on the chosen method).
- Monomer - for acrylic nails.
- Finish coating.
- Sticky layer remover.
Important! Even if only you will use all the devices, it will not be superfluous to also think about buying a sterilizer for manicure tools.
Forms
It all depends on your taste. The shape of the extended nail can be classic or complex. Classic shapes: oval, square, almond-shaped or “soft square”. Modern forms, like a stiletto, pipe or bridge - for brave ladies, for whom the main thing is originality.
Important! If you want to take a closer look at the classic and current trends, read our article "Manicure Design".
How to build nails in stages? tips
This is the easiest extension option. If you do everything right, it will turn out very beautifully:
- The very first step is to disinfect the instruments.
- The next moment is the selection of tips according to the shape and size of the nails. Now you need to give them the desired shape - classic or original.
- The most crucial moment is the preparation of the natural nail plate. To do this, you need to move the cuticle with a spatula, and trim the nails along the length with a nail file and remove the natural shine. Do all manipulations carefully so as not to damage the nail.
- Performing a manicure. Now treat your nails with a disinfectant and dry with a dehydrator. You can stick tips, distributing glue evenly and economically. Glue the tips to the nail plates, making sure they are positioned correctly.
- The next stage is the application of prime and bonder to the prepared surface. It is important not to overdry the bonder.
- The main point is the application of acrylic or gel composition. Then the sticky layer is removed, the nail surface is covered with a finishing gel and dried for 2 minutes under a lamp.
Using Forms
This is a more time-consuming and painstaking process. The form is a pattern that allows you to perfectly model each of the nails. The form is folded in half and placed under the nail plate. It is secured with a sticky edge. The distribution of materials is similar to that with tips.
How to care for extended nails at home?
Growing nails at home is easy. The care process is also very simple. It is enough to nourish the cuticle with special oil twice a day, and apply a transparent varnish on the surface of the nail. The time spent on caring procedures is minimal, and the manicure will always look well-groomed and stylish.
In addition, the following rules must be observed:
- You can't remove nail polish with acetone. If you suddenly decide to change the design of the manicure, use the right methods to remove the gel polish from your nails.
- Do not use nippers and scissors - manicure can be damaged.
- Be as careful as possible. If you accidentally damage an artificial manicure, you risk damaging the natural nail plate.
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature - you risk making your nails brittle.
- When choosing a varnish, make sure that it contains acrylic or gel.
- Don't forget to make adjustments. Due to the natural growth of the natural plate, the artificial manicure does not hold up well.
footage
Follow these rules, and your artificial nails will retain a luxurious look for a long time.
Every girl knows that in order to look attractive, you must definitely follow the beauty of your hands. You want your nails to look well-groomed for as long as possible. The most common way to keep a manicure beautiful is to make extensions. However, not everyone can afford to visit an expensive salon every 3 weeks to receive this service. Therefore, many people think about how to grow their own nails. See the article for more details on this.
Ways of nail extension
The method depends on the material chosen. There are two types: gel and What is the best way to build up nails?
Acrylic is a solid substance, it holds its shape very well and is easier to remove. But it has a rather strong smell. In addition, it quickly freezes - it will not be easy for a beginner to have time to distribute the material until it has frozen.
Gel is more suitable for the first experience. Among its advantages are the following:
- It is much easier to work with it, as it is evenly distributed over the nail.
- It is easier to make sawdust and attach correct form.
- There is no unpleasant smell.
- Does not cause allergies.
- Adheres tightly to the nail plate.
The better to build up nails, you decide. But if you are still a beginner, it is better to try the gel.
Necessary materials for nail extension
Before you go to the professional cosmetics store, let's make a list necessary tools and materials.
- UV/LED lamp. Without it, the gel simply will not harden. For starters, you can purchase the most inexpensive 9W UV lamp.
- Files. For a natural nail, a nail file with an abrasiveness of 180-230 grit is suitable, and for an artificial sawdust 80-100.
- Pusher to push back cuticles. A more economical option is orange sticks.
- Tips, since it is easier for beginners to build nails on them than on forms. Special glue and tips cutter (may be included or sold separately).
- Gel brush. Choose a flat one made of artificial bristles.
- Lint-free wipes.
- Antiseptic for hand disinfection.
- Degreaser.
- Primer. It is better to use acid, it provides a stronger grip on the nail.
- Take a single-phase gel, as it will be faster and easier for them to grow nails at home.
- Cuticle oil.
Stages of nail extension
We offer step by step instructions how to grow nails.
In conclusion, you can cover the resulting manicure with ordinary varnish or choose a design of your choice.
Nail extension on forms
The process of building nails on forms is similar to the previous one. First, the nail is prepared, as described above. Only instead of tips, a paper form is substituted to the free edge. First you need to try it on, if necessary, trim. The shape should fit butt to butt to the nail. After fixing it, you can lay out the gel. Next - polymerization in a UV lamp. Then the sticky layer is removed with a degreaser and sawdust of the length and shape of the nail is performed. Then a topcoat is applied to consolidate the result.
Precautionary measures
Before you build nails at home, it is worth considering some contraindications. If a fungus or cracks appear on the nails, building up is not an option. This can only aggravate the situation, under a thick layer of gel, the fungus will continue to multiply.
If the nail plate is too thin, it is also worth delaying the extension procedure. In this case, detachments of the material may appear, and when the gel is dried in a UV lamp, unpleasant pain is likely.
It is also worth waiting for the first days of menstruation. Any hormonal changes in the body are a contraindication. They also include pregnancy, breastfeeding, treatment with antibiotics or other potent drugs. Before you build your own nails, think about it, maybe you should wait a little with this procedure.
Before you learn how to build nails, consider how to properly handle the nail plate. There is no need to leave a long free edge. If the nails exfoliate, which happens from frequent contact with water, then they must be filed with a buff, creating a smooth, even surface.
In no case continue the procedure if you feel a burning sensation or other pain, this may be caused by an allergy to the materials. Therefore, it is better to use high-quality certified products sold in professional cosmetics stores. Be sure to pay attention to the expiration date of the materials and preparations used.
After you have grown your own nails, lubricate the cuticles with oil. And repeat this action at least once a day. The oil will help to keep the well-groomed appearance of the hands longer, nourish the skin with useful substances. Especially in the cold season, try not to forget about this procedure so that the cuticle does not become keratinized, this entails the appearance of unpleasant burrs.
Correction of artificial nails
After 3-4 weeks, when the nails grow back, it is necessary to make a correction. If the manicure has remained intact during this time, without chips and cracks, the correction will take a little time. Otherwise, it is better to remove the artificial nail and carry out the extension procedure again.
Never try to tear or bite off a damaged gel or tip. This will lead to injury to the nail plate. Use a hard file to remove material.
For correction, you also need to file the nail, removing the excess length and leveling the transition between the gel and the regrown gap. Brush off dust and apply primer. Next, you need to lay out the gel on a part of the natural regrown nail, then carefully distribute the material along the entire length. Dry in a lamp and shape. If one layer is not enough or irregularities remain, you can report the gel, leveling the surface.
Just as with extensions, pay attention to the stress zone. It should not have a transitional cavity. A polished nail can be designed in a new way.
Nail shapes
Before you build up your own nails, decide on the shape and design of the future manicure. Start with simple forms.
Oval. Suitable for owners of short nail plates. The oval will give the hands a more gentle calm look. For sawdust, use a rounded crescent-shaped file.
Almond. The most common form at the moment. Often it is done by lovers of long nails. Almond looks good in both dark and light color scheme. It is necessary to file such a shape in one direction, moving from one corner to another.
Square. If you have long aristocratic fingers, you can safely make this shape. Visually, it shortens the length. To create a square, use a straight file and keep your hand straight as you file. Don't make curves.
Soft square. Differs from the usual rounded corners. More comfortable to wear.
Choice of nail design
Considering the question of how to grow your own nails, it does not hurt to learn how to perform a simple design. The most popular is French, which has already become a classic. White - for lovers of strict restrained manicure and bright colors - for bold and extraordinary personalities. For drawing a jacket, it is more convenient to use a thin brush.
If you like pretty drawings but don't have artistic talent, use sliders. They are easy to apply and will brighten up any dull monochromatic manicure. What's more, sliders are inexpensive and suitable for home use.
To begin with, make the coating white. Cut the slider to the shape of the nail and lower it into the water for a few seconds. Apply the exfoliated image and smooth it on the nail. Secure with a transparent top. Remove all excess from the free edge of the nail with a file. Seal the ends with the same top.
When choosing a design, try not to overdo it. Remember, your pens should look neat and elegant. They say it's too bright manicure scares off the male half of humanity.
Dispelling the myths
Simultaneously with the question of whether it is possible for oneself to grow nails, another one arises: “How harmful is it?”. There is an erroneous opinion that supposedly the nails do not breathe under a thick layer of material. Let's deal with this issue.
The nail plate is more than a hundred layers of keratinized keratin cells. When the nail moves from its bed to the free edge (that is, grows), the cells lose liquid substances in their composition and die. in plain language: nails are "dead cells", they can't breathe. It is on them that the gel is applied during extension. The “living” cells located in the growth zone are not affected in any way.
Many people are afraid to grow their own nails, because they believe that they deteriorate from this. They deteriorate not from building up, but from improper removal of material. Too much or even removing pieces of the gel damages the surface of the nail, thinning it. Remove the material correctly and then keep your nails beautiful and healthy.
Lifespan of artificial nails
No master will determine the exact period for wearing nails. Many factors influence this. But by following some rules, you will extend the life of your manicure.
Once you can learn how to grow your own nails, at first it will be unusual to wear them and perform some simple manipulations. The main thing is habit and accuracy. Remember: nails are not a screwdriver or a construction tool, you don’t need to pry everything with them. When opening the door of a car or a fixed-route transport, make sure that the nail is not stuck, otherwise you will break it, and this is very painful. Do not expose it to fire, otherwise the material will turn black.
If you want the manicure to keep a neat look, carry out the correction on time, after 2-3 weeks. Then your hands will always look great.
Beauty salons offer a wide range of services, including gel and acrylic nail extensions. Every self-respecting girl should watch her hands, regardless of whether she works or does household chores. If a lady builds up her nails in the salon, she is forced to visit a specialist every 3 weeks, because the nail plate grows quickly and there is a need for correction. It is important to learn how to carry out the procedure yourself in order to avoid unnecessary expenses and loss of time.
Ways of nail extension
Masters use tips and forms to work with materials.
Extension on tips
They are made of plastic, they are an elongated plate that is attached with glue to the edge of the natural nail. Next, gel or acrylic is applied, the surface is polished and you can start creating a picture. Tips are convenient in that they involve only the edge of the nail, as a result of which the impact on the natural plate is minimized. The material is produced in various lengths and shapes, which allows you to short time choose the appropriate option. After attaching the plate to the nail, it is given the desired size, and the excess is cut off with a special tip cutter.
Building on forms
The material for work is made of a dense paper base, which is covered with polyethylene on top. The outer part is equipped with a sticky layer that holds the shape on a natural nail and does not allow it to break off until the master finishes the work. The outer side also does not allow the material to stick or soak into its surface. As a rule, forms are disposable, there are also reusable ones with special clamps, but they are not used at all.
When choosing the preferred extension method, start from the length of your own nails. If they are trimmed to the root and there is no free edge of 1-2 mm, there will be nothing to attach the forms to. Tips, in turn, are not very strong, but the process will be 1.5 times faster.
Features of acrylic nails
Initially, acrylic was used exclusively by dentists for implantation and repair of teeth, at present, masters have resorted to this method in cosmetology. Acrylic is a combination of liquid crystals (liquids) and loose powder. The liquid interacts with oxygen, as a result of which the material hardens and a strong layer is formed.
Acrylic is cloudy, so the aquarium design immediately disappears, for these purposes it is better to choose a gel. However, if you prefer gel, you can forget about ideal lines and a clear contour, since this plus belongs to acrylic. If you use this method in an apartment or in a closed unventilated space, you will go crazy with the smell of the material.
It's all about the monometer, which is used in building on this technology. Its toxic and volatile smell spreads around the room in an instant. If you settled on the acrylic method, allocate yourself a separate room, ventilate it thoroughly, close the door and do not allow the child and pets to enter there.
This direction appeared not so long ago, but has already taken pride of place in the hearts of its owners. As a rule, the gel consists exclusively of natural polymers, as a result of which it is harmless to nails. Its composition most often includes coniferous resin, so the artificial coating is non-toxic and resistant to various factors.
The gel is particularly strong and durable, the process does not stand still and manufacturers began to produce a composition of a denser consistency. The material will not spread on the native nail, which allows the beginner to carefully and efficiently carry out the procedure. The gel does not have a sharp and repulsive odor, it does not harden in a few minutes, like acrylic, which is an undeniable advantage of this technology.
Necessary tools and materials
- 36 watt UV lamp.
- Cuticle spatula. Choose a tool made of orange wood, this material is more gentle on the skin, it is soft and environmentally friendly.
- Disinfectant. An ordinary antiseptic is suitable for hands, the tools can be boiled and then treated with alcohol. If these options are not suitable, buy Cutasept for hands and Bacillol for tools.
- Files. The abrasiveness of the tools for acrylic nails is 80/100, for gel nails - 100/120. The higher the index, the softer the nail file. You will also need a glass file for natural nails.
- Dehydrator - a special liquid formulation designed to degrease natural nails.
- Brushes. All of them must be natural, artificial ones leave a pile on the gel or on acrylic, then it cannot be removed. You will need a round brush for acrylic and a flat brush for gel.
- Forms or tips. Glue must be attached to the materials, do not use it, it is bad. Buy glue separately for each extension method.
- Monometer - a special liquid that is required only for acrylic nails.
- The tweezers are only for the molds to grab and attach them.
- Primer is a natural nail treatment agent that provides a strong bond with an artificial nail.
- Finish - the product gives shine to extended nails, it is needed for both acrylic and gel.
- Liquid to remove the sticky layer at the end result.
- Special building gel or acrylic powder, the choice is made in favor of one or another extension technology.
- A tips cutter is needed if the extension is made on tips.
Preparation of nails for extension
Important: if you have a fungus or cracks on your nails, you should not start the procedure.
Disinfect your hands. Take an orange spatula and push the cuticle up but do not cut. File the top layer of your nail with a glass nail file, moving from the center to the edge. You need to make the surface of the plate matte.
Finish the edge of the nail, do not make it too sharp or, on the contrary, square, bring the shape to a soft oval. Remove the resulting dust, then cover the nail with a primer.
- Take the forms and fix them on the nails, connecting the ends together. Inject material under the plate, not on it. Cover your nail with the gel along with the form. Look at the scale, remember at which division you stopped in order to bring the gel to the same length on the next nails.
- After applying the first layer, place the nail in the lamp for 45 seconds. For your convenience, build up four fingers first, process them and dry them thoroughly, and after them go for building on thumb. When the layer is dry, take a file with an abrasiveness of 100/120 and start filing the surface.
- Remove the dust with a napkin and proceed to the second, denser layer. Apply the gel and turn the palm upside down so that the material spreads evenly over the plate and does not slip onto the cuticle. Dry the layer for 2 minutes.
- Unfasten the forms from the extended nail. Take the adhesive remover, apply it to a cotton swab and walk over the surface. Then file down the second layer to a matte finish.
- Apply finish and dry for 1 minute. If you have the talent of an artist, you can paint a nail. If there is no such gift, cover the plate with ordinary varnish in 2 layers, dry each of them for 40 seconds. Treat the cuticles with oil and do not wet your hands for 2.5 hours.
- Apply glue to the inside of the tips and stick to the edge of the nail. Hold for 5 seconds for it to dry. Take a tip cutter and adjust the length. Align the border of the tip and natural nail with a glass file, also correct the edge of the artificial plate.
- Pick up the gel on the brush and cover your nail with it, moving from the cuticle down. Let the gel dry in the lamp, hold your finger there for 2 minutes. Make the next layer, but already on the entire surface of the native and artificial nail, dry for 1.5 minutes.
- Take a liquid to eliminate the sticky layer that has formed after polymerization. Apply it on a cotton pad and wipe the nail. Level the surface with a 100/120 nail file, then cover with a finish. Make a drawing or paint with a plain varnish in 2 layers. Dry in the lamp for 2 minutes.
Gel nail correction
- Take a spatula and push back your cuticles. With a nail file 80/100, remove 2/3 of the entire gel.
- File your overgrown nail down, smoothing out where it meets the gel coat.
- Disinfect your hands. Apply primer to the nail and place it in the lamp for 1 minute.
- Make a layer of gel, as when building, dry for 1.5 minutes and apply a second one, also dry it.
- Degrease the surface with a dehydrator, coat with a finish and send to the lamp for 2 minutes. Give your nails the desired shape.
Acrylic nail extension on forms
- Glue the shape by joining the ends. Get the material under your nail.
- Pour the liquid into a container, dip the brush in it. Wring it out in a convenient way, start picking up the powder to make a ball. Make sure that it is dry, otherwise the acrylic will spread on your nail. Let the liquid soak into the powder and proceed with the procedure.
- Begin to gently roll the ball into shape and your own nail, without affecting the cuticle. If the layer is too thin, repeat the maneuver. After all layers are ready, dry your nails, remove the shape with tweezers and file the edge to the desired length. Polish the surface with a file 80/100, cover with a finish and dry in a lamp for 2 minutes. Cover with regular varnish in 2 layers and dry them for 30 seconds each.
- Take the tips and apply glue to the inside, then immediately attach to the tip of your own nail. Hold for 10 seconds for the tips to grip the natural plate.
- With an 80/100 file, file down any irregularities on the surface where the tip meets your nail. Also at this stage, give the desired shape and cut the artificial edge with a tips cutter if it is too long. Cover the entire length of the nail with primer.
- Dip the brush into the liquid, wring it out and dip it into the modeling powder. Apply the composition to the nail along with the tips, and wait until the acrylic hardens. Walk the file along the surface, making it even without tubercles and depressions. Apply the finish, then send the nails to dry in the lamp for 2 minutes. Make a design or cover with 2 layers of varnish, dry for 30 seconds.
Acrylic nails correction
- Disinfect your hands, remove the top layer of varnish with a liquid that does not include acetone.
- Push back cuticles with an orange stick. Completely cut off the free edge of the artificial nail, and the entire surface of the plate by 70%.
- Use a glass file to finish your overgrown nail to a matte state.
- Treat the nail with a dehydrator and cover with a primer.
- Start modeling by applying acrylic with a brush, as if building, trying not to get on the cuticle.
- Cover with a finish and dip your finger into the lamp for 2 minutes.
- Consult your doctor if you have contraindications to the use of gel, acrylic, dehydrator, primer and other products. It is important to find out before you start the procedure.
- Nail extension is contraindicated for women and girls with diabetes, stomach diseases and those who have recently taken antibiotics.
- Be sure to take a break while wearing artificial turf. Let your nails rest at least once every 2 months.
- Nail extension can lead to cracks and degeneration of the natural plate. There is also a high risk of infection, so always disinfect tools before starting work.
- Often smear the cuticles with special oil, do soda baths (250 ml of water has 1 tablespoon of soda).
Agree, it is not difficult to grow nails at home. It is important to control the process and pay attention to possible little things. Choose the appropriate extension option, decide on the materials and go ahead to conquer the heights. Good luck!
Video: acrylic nail extension video tutorial