Fake nails, falsies, nail extensions - whatever you call them, we all know they are one of the best fashion accessories you can get. They can transform your nails from shabby to chic in minutes, and create an amazing look that lasts for weeks.
Believe it or not, fake nails have been around for a very long time. During the Ming Dynasty in China, long artificial nails were a sign of nobility. The trend gradually spread through ancient Greece and Egypt, using all manner of materials, including pistachio shells!
However, it wasn't until 1954, when a dentist called Fred Slack broke his fingernail at work, that the false nails of today were born.
Whilst gel nails, acrylics and SNS nails are a quick and easy solution to great looking nails, some maintenance is required to keep them looking good. They are pretty resistant to chips and breaks, but there's one thing you can't stop - the natural growth of your nails.
As your nails grow, the applied colour grows out - hence the need for nail refills. Luckily, this is quick and easy to get done. And we should know! The Bookwell team loves any excuse to be pampered!
The process differs a little, depending on whether you've got acrylic nails, gel nails, or you're using the revolutionary new SNS.
Nail refills - or infills - are quite similar for acrylic and gel nails. Although it's worth remembering that acrylic nails can also be used to add length. Refill simply means filling in the area between your colour and your cuticles. That's the area that has been exposed as your nails have grown.
Your fingernails grow around 3mm a month, so professional nail technicians generally recommend getting a nail refill every two to three weeks to maintain a perfect finish.
Your nail salon will also be able to give you some tips on how best to care for your nails, in-between appointments.
Acrylic, gel and SNS nails are very tough, so chips and cracks shouldn't occur too often. There are things you can do to avoid problems, too. Using a good quality hand and nail cream is a good start. And you might want to start using rubber gloves, for washing up and cleaning.
If you do get a chip, it will probably coincide with your due date for a refill, so that problem is easily fixed. By choosing professional nail salons, you know you are being looked after by highly skilled therapists. It's all about technique, and they know what they're doing.
Many people like to use acrylic or gel nails on a casual basis, for special events. They don't bother with refills, and simply have the nails removed after the event. Others wear them all the time, especially if they have trouble growing their own nails.
Either way, you should never try and remove acrylic, gel, or SNS yourself. This is one DIY temptation to be avoided! Remember, nail technicians have been trained to do this - you have not. Chipping or peeling off the product yourself could lead to all sorts of problems and nail damage.
The best approach, on your first visit to the nail salon, is to explain what you're after. The salon will be able to advise you on the different products, and how to care for them. Certainly, if you're looking to wear artificial nails continually, you should heed their advice.
We all deserve some time out now and then, and having your nails done is a great treat. It's so relaxing, and you leave looking and feeling amazing! So go on, spoil yourself - check out our fabulous salons and make an appointment today.