How extended nails are made. Gel nail extension training with video tutorials for beginners. manicure care

Lyubov Ivanova

Reading time: 5 minutes

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At the end of the twentieth century, extended nails were a curiosity. Today, for girls, nail extensions are familiar cosmetic procedure. In the article I will tell you how to build nails at home with gel, silk and acrylic.

According to women, it is convenient, and sometimes necessary. There are frequent cases when there is no time for a manicure or nails do not grow due to high brittleness. Extension helps solve problems.

Extensions also have disadvantages. It negatively affects the natural nails. It should be noted the cost of the procedure, the calculation of which takes into account the work of the master, depreciation of equipment and consumables. Fortunately, you can put your nails in order at home, time and money. And with experience, an excellent result is obtained, which is not inferior to the salon counterpart.

Women have been building up their nails since the second half of the last century. For half a century, the cosmetic procedure has become indispensable for ladies seeking to lengthen their nails or correct defects. At the initial stage, they were built up with acrylic, now gel is popular.

Extended nails have any shape and help to acquire. They are beautiful, durable and protect natural nails from mechanical damage. On the vast surface of extended nails, skilled craftsmen demonstrate their own art.

Many young ladies consider home building a costly exercise. This is partly true, because buying a set of tools is not cheap. If you do not have the necessary amount, I advise you to cooperate with your girlfriends and purchase a set for the company. Spend less money and be able to exchange not only tools, but also the experience gained during work, which is important.

How to build gel nails at home - step by step instructions


The gel is suitable for beginners for building, because it has one remarkable quality: when it hardens, it evens out and eliminates minor flaws. Despite the loyalty to the lack of experience, the tool needs careful handling.

  • First of all, prepare workplace. A regular table will do. An ultraviolet lamp can be freely installed on it, and there is enough space for manipulations.
  • The main thing is that there is a socket near the table, and direct sunlight does not fall on the surface. The gel quickly hardens under the influence of ultraviolet light and in daylight the curing speed will not allow the formation of marigolds.
  • Before starting the procedure, prepare natural nails. Carefully cut them and use a nail file to give shape and length. Remove cuticles and sand the surface with a block. After carrying out these manipulations, remove the pollen from cutting with a napkin or brush.
  • The next step involves degreasing. If this is not done, the gel will not adhere well to the nail plates and peel off. Use a special tool. Masters call it a primer because it provides preliminary training.
  • Attach a mold to the prepared nail, which should fit under the edge of the nail plate. To fix it, wrap the free edges with adhesive around the pad and press lightly. The extension form is designed in such a way that even a beginner can determine the correct position. The main thing is that there are no holes.

The foil template provides the length and shape of the nail, the correct position. If installed incorrectly, extended nails will stick out to the side. Check the position of the mold from above and in profile.

  • After setting the template, start applying the gel with a small brush. As a result, the nail plate should be covered with a continuous, uniform layer. Then turn on the lamp and dry the applied gel under purple rays for 30 seconds. Do not use .
  • Then take the brush again and continue shaping the nail. Extend it according to the pattern, guided by the length indicator. Using a mesh, make the length of the nails the same. Then again hold under the lamp for about a minute to completely fix the gel. When the extended nail becomes hard, remove the template from under it. It is disposable and will not be needed again.
  • Use a nail file to smooth out irregularities and adjust the length. Perform this procedure immediately or after building up all nails. The second option is preferable because it allows you to achieve symmetry.
  • Extended nails I advise you to paint, paint or decorate with decor. To achieve the effect, craftsmen perform decoration from several types of multi-colored gel. At home, limit yourself to standard staining.

Step by step video instruction

With a good tool, home building with gel is a doable task. If the technology is followed, the extended nails hold well, but after a few weeks there will be a need for correction, which is due to the growth of natural nails and the displacement of the gel layer. It's easy to do. Ultimately, extended nails in combination with a hairstyle will make the image unique.

How to build nails without gel - silk extension


Silk extensions also help to get beautiful nails. This technology provides a more natural-looking result. Natural nails receive minimal damage. Silk extensions are based on the use of small pieces of silk, fiberglass or rayon.

The cosmetic procedure is performed by masters, since beginners, due to lack of experience during extension, choose an overly aggressive approach to nail processing or overdo it with the amount of adhesive.

Silk is a light and thin material that protrudes ideal option for brittle and weakened nail plates. Its use does not prevent natural nails from breathing, which cannot be said about gel or acrylic.

Due to its high fragility, silk is not suitable for girls who play sports or handmade. In all other cases, silk extensions are an excellent option.

Advantages and disadvantages of silk nail extension

Silk extensions have advantages, including: low operating costs, excellent repair qualities, minimal harm to natural nails. Silk nails look natural and realistic. For comparison, with the help of acrylic to achieve such a result is problematic. Search the Internet for photos of finished work and compare the results. The difference is noticeable.

Silk extensions are not without flaws. We are talking about low strength and short-term results. Silk nails last no longer than a week.

If you decide to build your nails with silk, I advise you to do it in the salon, which minimizes the likelihood of damage to natural nails. Otherwise, it will take a long time to carry out the operation at home.

  1. First of all, thoroughly clean natural nails, degrease and polish so that the material adheres well to the nail plate. After the nails, cover with a layer of special adhesive.
  2. Put a piece of silk fabric on the glue, corresponding to the length and shape of the nails you want to get. Using an orange stick, gently smooth the silk, and remove the excess with nail scissors.
  3. Apply a layer of activator gel. Once the coating is dry, sand and varnish if desired. But many beauties refuse to use a decorative product, preferring “clean” silk nails.

If you try to temporarily cover the damaged nail plate with silk extensions, I do not recommend using varnish. As a result, the damaged nail will be able to grow unhindered, and you will be able to track growth and make adjustments if necessary. Below you will find a video that will reveal the secrets and subtleties of silk extensions.

Video instruction

How to build acrylic nails

Any beauty salon will offer acrylic extension services. Masters will make the nails beautiful and well-groomed, and thanks to the author's design, they will also be unique. This kind of procedure can be carried out at home.

Acrylic extension helps to increase the length of nails in apartment conditions and apply a beautiful pattern to the surface. But despite the low complexity of the procedure, preparation and tools are indispensable.

Carrying out a cosmetic procedure provides for a comfortable working space. All activities and manipulations are conveniently carried out on a spacious table. Such a working surface is sufficient for placing tools and installing a lamp.

  1. Wash your hands and treat with an alcohol solution. Remember, acrylic build-up is carried out only on a fat-free surface.
  2. Using an orange stick, remove the cuticle. If this is not done, it will cause a lot of inconvenience, and the nails will turn out to be sloppy.
  3. Using nail files, treat the surface of the nail and eliminate shine. The technology under consideration involves working with a rough surface. When processing the nail plate, act carefully, otherwise damage it.
  4. On the short nails glue the forms and press down so that there are no voids. If you are having a cosmetic procedure for the first time, I advise you to make nails that are half a centimeter longer than natural ones.
  5. Process the surface of the plastic template to give the necessary shape with a nail file. Next, cover the surface of natural nails with a degreaser and wait until it dries.
  6. The next step involves working with a brush and acrylic powder. Moisten the brush in the monomer, and then make acrylic lumps from the powder. Make small strokes with pressure.
  7. Distribute the lump over the plate to form a film, the thickness of which should increase towards the edge of the nail. The extended nail at the tip should be thicker than over the natural one.
  8. The next step is to smooth the acrylic nails with a brush and monomer. Do not forget that there will be a design on this surface later.
  9. After drying, file and polish. It remains to apply the image to the surface with the help of varnish. Under the influence of ultraviolet acrylic nails turn yellow. Therefore, protect them from such radiation.

With the help of the instructions above, you can grow your nails without the help of a master without any problems. During the creation of the design, you will need a classic manicure set and varnish in several colors. Just remember, acrylic does not like decorative products that include acetone, as this substance destroys its structure.

Is it possible for pregnant women to increase nails

A woman always strives to look unsurpassed and the period of bearing a baby is no exception. By and large, this cosmetic procedure is harmless. Building materials contain chemical compounds that can theoretically harm an unborn child, but their concentration is not enough for this.

It is not forbidden to carry out the procedure when using high-quality materials. They should not contain methyl methacrylate - a substance that is prohibited in America and Europe. At high concentrations, it leads to serious disruptions in the development of the fetus. At the same time, Korean and Chinese manufacturers are still using it.

- Responsible period. Therefore, I advise you to carry out the procedure in a room with ventilation. Use all kinds of antiseptics. During the procedure expectant mother I recommend wearing a medical mask, and after finishing, wash your hands and rinse your nose.

  1. During pregnancy, it is not forbidden to use a gel for building. It is not characterized by a pungent odor, but evaporates during curing. Before entering the maternity hospital, be sure to remove the extended nails, as the doctors will examine the nail plates.
  2. As for acrylic, it is characterized by a pungent odor. Therefore, the extension should be carried out in conditions of enhanced ventilation. Otherwise, inhale the vapors, which will not benefit either you or the unborn child.

During pregnancy, the structure of the nails under the influence of hormones changes. As a result, the girl's nail plates become brittle or strong. As for extended nails, they are poorly attached and easily rejected.

I do not advise building up during this interesting period and waiting with beauty until better times. Nail dust causes severe irritation of the nasal mucosa and leads to an allergic reaction. Due to calcium deficiency, natural nails become brittle, which once again proves the undesirability of the procedure.

Extended nail care


Care is easy. Periodically visit a beauty salon and make a correction. The master will easily and quickly correct the length and apply the material to the part that has grown.

Take care of your extended nails between salon visits. It's easy, if you follow the generally accepted rules.

  1. If there is no nail polish remover in the arsenal, which does not include acetone, be sure to buy it. Acetone is a solvent that can ruin appearance extended nails.
  2. When using aggressive detergents wear rubber gloves. They will protect the nail plates and the skin of the hands from the harmful effects of chemistry.
  3. Often, in between visits to the salon, it becomes necessary to process the edges of the nails. Files used in the case of natural nails are not suitable due to their high softness. We need files that have low abrasive characteristics.
  4. Artificial ones seem durable, but this does not mean that they cannot be broken. I do not advise them to pinch, press down or gnaw. By damaging the extended plate, you will provide a lot of trouble to the natural nail.
  5. The materials used in building are not friendly with high temperature, the impact of which leads to the appearance of cracks and yellowness. This does not mean that you need to abandon the sauna or solarium. The main thing is not to expose them to a sharp change in temperature.
  6. After building up the cuticle grows more slowly. Sometimes you need to remove it yourself. To mechanical way better not to resort, damage the nail. Buy a special cuticle remover. Apply it to the skin that is adjacent to the nail, wait a bit, and then move it away with a wooden stick.
  7. Moisturize the skin around the nails regularly with oils. Penetrating deep, they nourish the nail plate and improve growth.

Until recently, girls with short nails could only dream of a beautiful manicure.

Eternal problems - nails are ugly, peel all the time, break, it is impossible to grow them - already in the past.

With the help of gel extensions, you can give them any length and shape. And the dimensions of the nail plate are a field for creativity and the embodiment of the fantasies of any nail master.

Let's talk about how complicated the procedure is and what are its advantages.

Advantages and disadvantages

This is a modern and safe way extensions with many advantages:

  • The procedure takes relatively little time.
  • The material hardens under the influence of ultraviolet rays, does not cause allergies.
  • It is worn for a long time, does not violate the structure of the nail plate.
  • At the end of the procedure, it looks natural and natural.
  • Does not smell during the application process and after.

The procedure also has disadvantages. Artificial nail can break on a direct hit. But isn't the natural afraid of such injuries?

Most likely, after that you will have to say goodbye to him, cut off all the rest to his length. And artificial is easier to restore and give it a beautiful look.

What materials should be prepared at home

Many who first did gel extensions wondered: what lengthens the nail plate? Here you can not do without additional material.

At the heart of a long, neat manicure are:

Which base to choose for lengthening standard flat nail plates depends on the master and the preferences of the client.

After the procedure, you need to choose a design: now at the height of fashion! Find out all the details about it - what you need, how to do it yourself.

If you are brown-eyed, but do not know at all how to make up your eyes to emphasize their expressiveness, make-up ideas for brown eyes in a separate post.

What else is needed for the procedure: a list of the starter set of tools

Before starting work make sure you have the next set:

  • UV lamp;
  • tips or forms;
  • means for disinfection;
  • adhesive remover;
  • finishing gel;
  • flat brush for applying material;
  • a set of files;
  • orange stick;
  • tweezers;
  • primer;
  • polishing pad;
  • glue for tips.

In the process of preparing nails for gel extension, it is important to familiarize yourself with the anatomy of the nail plate in advance so as not to cut off the excess:

Before proceeding with the build-up, you need to follow the compliance simple rules .

It depends on how high-quality the manicure will turn out, and how long you can enjoy it:

  • We do not recommend using hand creams on the day of the procedure. This may interfere with the fixing of the gel on the nail plates.
  • Take care of the condition of the cuticle in advance.
  • Taking antibiotics or hormonal drugs is not compatible with building. It also interferes with the adhesion of materials to the nail plate.
  • The procedure is done only on healthy nails.

Most of these rules are individual. But in practice, they still work more often.

It’s worth immediately deciding what form the future manicure will have:

The extension process takes a lot of time. To get results, better prepare ahead of time. What's more, it's easy.

If you are preparing to go to a wedding celebration, find out all about. Please your loved ones without spending too much from the family budget!

Do you want to look not only more stylish, but also younger? Have toned skin, neat facial features? in the photo before and after facial contouring - this procedure may suit you.

General magnetotherapy is a useful healing procedure that helps with diseases of organs and body systems. About her indications and contraindications in a separate informative article.

Working with tips

For a beginner, this method is easier and takes less time.

Step-by-step technology, the procedure for gel nail extension on tips is presented in the photo below along with a description:

Stages:

  • We treat our hands with an antiseptic. The nail plate must dry completely.
  • Push back the cuticles with an orange stick.
  • We file the nails under the shape of the tips.
  • Gloss from the surface is gently removed with a sanding block.
  • Once again we use an antiseptic, remove the remnants of the product and dust with a napkin.
  • The size of the tips is selected for each nail.
  • A small amount of glue is applied to the tip hole. It is pressed tightly for 10 seconds. Excess glue is removed.
  • Tweezers give the desired length. Use a nail file to give the desired shape.
  • Once again we process the surface of the nail plate with a buff. Periodically remove the remaining dust with a brush.
  • A primer is applied to the natural nail.
  • After the liquid is completely dry, the surface is covered with a gel. Make sure that it does not get on the cuticle, skin. The hand can be turned over so that the solution is evenly distributed.
  • Drying in an ultraviolet lamp for 3 minutes.
  • Apply the gel again, dry again.
  • Remove the sticky layer with a special tool. We use lint-free wipes.
  • Degrease the surface, apply a finishing agent.
  • Place your hand under the lamp for another 3 minutes.
  • Remove the sticky layer again.
  • We process the cuticle with oil.

This video with step-by-step instructions for gel nail extension on tips is a fairly understandable video tutorial for beginners.

Not every woman can boast strong nails beautiful shape. However, getting the perfect manicure is possible with the help of a nail extension procedure. Many resort to the services of nail masters for this, but with the advent of the gel system, which is easier to use than acrylic, lengthening nails or restoring broken ones has become possible at home.

List of tools and materials that you can not do without when building

Nail extension in the salon is an expensive procedure, and many decide to save money by mastering the modeling technology. gel nails at home. However, in this case, you should be prepared for the fact that at the initial stage you still need to pay a tidy sum, since necessary materials and equipment cost a lot. When purchasing consumables, it is extremely important to focus on time-tested brands, because ease of learning, as well as the final result, depend on the quality of materials.

Three gel systems are used for nail extension:

  1. Three-phase - includes three components (layers) with different functions. The first ensures safe interaction of the nail with the composition, improves adhesion. The second layer is intended directly for modeling the future nail. The third is protective and is responsible for strength, smoothness and shine.
  2. Two-phase - consists, respectively, of two components. The first combines the functions of adhesion and modeling, while the other provides strength.
  3. Single-phase - carries all three functions and is the most versatile.

The minimum list of tools and materials that will be required for building:

  • UV or LED lamp for 36 or 48 W;
  • a set of nail files of different abrasiveness (100, 120, 180, 240 grits);
  • buff for removing gloss from the nail plate;
  • a metal pusher with a spatula to push back the cuticle and a hatchet to remove pterygium;
  • scissors with curved blades for trimming the cuticle or a means for softening it;
  • brush with soft bristles to remove sawdust;
  • a set of brushes with synthetic bristles;
  • clamp tweezers used to model arched nails;
  • lint-free wipes;
  • disposable bottom molds or reusable top molds;
  • liquid for cleaning brushes from the gel;
  • 3 in 1 agent for degreasing, disinfection and removal of the dispersion layer (or purchased separately: alcohol-based antiseptic, degreaser, adhesive remover);
  • dehydrator - nail prep (needed only with high humidity of hands and nails);
  • acid primer or ultrabond (primer ultra-coupling);
  • gel base (if a three-phase gel system is used);
  • structural gel (can be single-phase, two-phase and three-phase) or a set of colored gels for jacket;
  • finish gel (if a three-phase gel system is used);
  • regenerating cuticle oil.

When choosing a gel for extension, it should be remembered that nails made of such material are removed only by cutting. The exception is biogel, which can be removed by soaking, as in the acrylic system. For beginners who do not have experience with a cutter, it is better to start with such a material, since when it is removed, the risk of injuring the nail plate is minimized.

When choosing the main components - a lamp and a gel, their compatibility should be taken into account. So, ultraviolet rays have a wide range of exposure, so lamps with such radiation are suitable for almost any material, while diode devices are only suitable for gels marked LED. For beginners who have not yet decided which gel systems to work with, an excellent option would be to purchase a hybrid lamp that combines two types of radiation.

Table: differences between LED and UV lamps, their advantages and disadvantages

Type of radiationLight sourceMaterials that polymerize in the apparatusAverage polymerization time of various materialsTotal operating timeIs it possible to repairHarmfulness of radiation
LED3W LEDsOnly new generation materials designed specifically for LED lamps with the LED marking on the packaging.
  • base 10 seconds;
  • gel polish - 30 seconds;
  • single-phase gels - from 30 to 60 seconds depending on the thickness of the coating.
Up to 50,000 hours of device lifeLEDs are not replaceable.Radiation is harmless.
UVFluorescent lamps, 9 W eachAny materials, both marked UV and UV/LED
  • gel polish - 2 minutes;
  • structural gels - from 2 to 3 minutes, depending on the power of the lamp.
Up to 3,000 hours of operation.Since conventional UV lamps lose power and burn out over time, it is recommended to replace them every 3 months.Ultraviolet radiation in this range dries the skin of the hands and has a harmful effect on vision.

Photo gallery: tools and materials that you will need for various extension methods

Files are the main working tool for building up and removing gel nails, so you should not save on their quality and quantity.
Paper forms allow you to model nails of any configuration
A metal pusher is necessary at all stages of extension The choice of a gel is a crucial step, so before purchasing it, you should consult a professional, and also do not forget about compatibility with the lamp Top forms have different widths and degrees of bulge, are reusable and withstand up to 50 extension procedures classic manicure, you can’t do without cuticle scissors, but you can use them 3 days before building up or after the procedure Brushes with synthetic bristles are suitable for working with the gel. In order for a beginner not to get confused in liquids for removing dispersion, degreasing and disinfecting, you can immediately purchase a product that has all three properties Most extension gels dry only in UV lamps, however, such devices are short-lived and require constant replacement of fluorescent lamps Dehydration agent is needed only for those whose hands and nail plates are prone to moisture generation, they have high power and shorten the operating time
Bonder is the first thing you need for gel extensions. It creates a base for modeling and does not allow the gel to peel off.

Step-by-step instructions for gel extensions on the lower forms

First of all, you should prepare the workplace. It can be a desk, near which there is a socket for connecting a lamp, as well as an artificial light source. It is important to avoid direct sunlight on the materials, because natural light also contains a small amount of ultraviolet radiation, which helps to cure the gel. Therefore, brushes after work should be washed in a special solution and stored in a case that prevents polymerization of material residues on the pile.

Basic set for a beginner nail master:

The extension procedure will take a lot of time and patience, so at home you can divide this process into two stages. First, perform, for example, a hygienic trimmed manicure, and then, after a break of at least 3 days, model nails with gel. it’s better for yourself to start with the right hand and only after all the stages switch to the left.

The first stage is the preparation of the nail plate

To properly prepare your nails for extension, you should:


Since the gel tends to spread, you should not build up on all fingers of one hand at once. At the subsequent stages of setting up the forms and directly building up with the gel, the described actions should be performed on each finger in turn, until the final stage - filing and design.

The second stage is the correct installation of the lower form on the finger

When modeling nails on the lower forms, you can use reusable patterns, as well as disposable templates made of foil paper with a sticky layer. Masters prefer disposable forms, guided by their safety, ease of use and the ability to give the extended edge any shape. The result of the entire extension process depends on how correctly the form was established.

Sequencing:

  1. We remove the template from the paper backing and squeeze out the middle along the perforation. The remaining foil oval is glued on the back of the template for additional rigidity. We tear off the upper petals, which will be attached to the finger above the nail, and round the template. The lower ears are not glued.
  2. We substitute the form under the free edge of the nail, trying on its setting. If the form does not butt with the natural nail and forms gaps, you should correct the oval cutout for the “smile” line using scissors for this. It is important that the cutout is symmetrical to the centerline that is marked on the template. With high side rollers that prevent a snug fit of the form to the finger, two cuts can be made.
  3. After trying on, remove the form and glue the lower ears so that their edges are symmetrical. If you connect the ears unevenly, then in the process of building, distortions may occur.
  4. We set the shape again, turning its inner oval cutout under the free edge of the natural nail, and fix it on the finger with the help of the upper petals. We check the correctness of the setting, looking from the side and from the end. If the edge of the template rises or falls, you can correct its position by moving or lowering the upper petals above the nail bed. So, pushing them apart during fixation, we lift the “nose” of the pattern up, and in order to lower it, we should reduce the distance between the petals on the finger.
  5. When the form is installed correctly, and its extreme point is on the same parallel with the nail bed, we crimp the template for a more secure fit on the finger.

The wider the distance between the two upper petals on the finger, the higher the edge of the template rises, and vice versa

Since the diameter of the fingers and the shape of the nail plate are different for everyone, when installing the forms, it is necessary to select the distance between the petals on each finger individually.

Video: how to properly set the shape when building

The third stage - gel nail extension

To model a nail, you need to do the following steps:


The stress zone is the highest point of the nail, created specifically in the artificial nail so that it is strong and does not break. And also that the load was in the right place of the nail bed.

Video: nail modeling with a single-phase gel on the lower forms

How to work with top forms

Stages of work when building on the upper forms:

Video: gel nail extension on upper forms

What other options are there for building with a gel

In addition to the nail lengthening methods described above, the gel system is compatible with such extension techniques.

Before you build nails using gel, acrylic or silk, it is important to familiarize yourself with the extension technique and purchase tools and materials. At home, maximum care and sterility should be exercised so as not to spoil the nail plate and get a beautiful manicure as a result.

So that after any type of extension there are no problems with your nails, you should follow some simple rules:

Tools and materials

Grow nails at homehelp withstandard set of tools and materials:

  • Ultraviolet lamp. This appliance is used to dry the gel coat. Price - from 9 to 75 $. Several popular firms with a high sales rating: TNL Professional, Planet Nails, Runail 36 W 818, Irisk Professional;
  • Disinfector. Required for disinfection of accessories before and after work. Price from 0.30 to 26 $ for 1 pc. (depending on volume and company);

    Before you build nails at home, be sure to disinfect your hands and tools

  • Nail file for native nails. The grain size of the product should be from 240 Grit;
  • Nail file for extended nails. The grain size of the product should range from 80 to 240 Grit;
  • Brushes for covering nails with material;
  • Pusher. With it, the cuticle is removed;
  • wire cutters. Will serve as a convenient removal of dead skin pieces (burrs);
  • buff. With the help of this nail file, the surface of the nail is gently polished;
  • Brushes for decorating nails. They differ from other brushes in a thin pile, for the convenience of drawing;
  • Forms, tips. They are extension templates;
  • Orange stick. Handy tool for the master. With its help, defects are removed, corrected and corrected (not to be confused with the correction procedure);
  • Soft brush. Necessary to remove excess dust;
  • Nail degreaser. Means for improving the fixation of the coating;
  • primer. Substance for setting artificial turf, in other words - a liquid with the effect of "double-sided tape";
  • Nail prep. Is the foundation for the coating;
  • Lint-free wipes;
  • Base. A substance that connects a natural nail with a gel coating;
  • Tack remover;
  • Gel;
  • Paints, glitter and other accessories for design;
  • Finish gel. Represents the final layer of coating for fixing the work;
  • Cuticle oil.

Additionally for silk extensions:


Additionally for acrylic extensions:


Contraindications

Nail extensions both in the salon and at home should be done after studying and making sure that there are no contraindications. They are divided into 2 categories:

  • The fixation of the extended material will be minimal or equal to zero. The nails will not hold, as the body can reject the material and there is a possibility of exfoliation;
  • Nail extensions can be harmful. In this case, it is better to abandon the procedure, otherwise there is a possibility of serious consequences.

Low material fixation may occur if the client:

  • diabetes;
  • herpes;
  • diseases of cardio-vascular system;
  • poor circulation;
  • the time of the menstrual cycle;
  • Graves' disease;
  • hormonal disorders;
  • the period of the course of chemotherapy;
  • time of taking antibiotics;
  • excessive sweating hands;
  • sudden stressful situations arise;
  • pregnancy.

It is necessary to refuse extensions in order to avoid harm to health, with:

  • fungus;
  • damage to the nail plate (trauma);
  • hematoma under the nail;
  • material allergies.

At the same time, you should not be afraid if the nails are already extended, and the girl is overtaken by any ailment or circumstance from a number of contraindications. In this case, it will be necessary to visit corrections more often.

Nail preparation

To grow nails at home, you need to start with preparation.

Howphased preparation:


Proper observance of these simple rules is a guarantee of quality work.

Step by step instructions and extension technique

Each method is significantly different from each other.


The general technology is:

  1. preparation;
  2. Application of material;
  3. processing;
  4. clearance;
  5. Fixations.

gel

Gel extension has its own number of advantages over other types:

  • Nails look natural;
  • It is possible to choose any design;
  • The percentage of harm to natural nails is minimal, since nails can “breathe” under the gel;
  • It is not difficult to model any shape of the nail from the gel.


There are also disadvantages of gel extensions:

  • fragility;
  • A crack in the nail requires a new nail extension, not a correction.

Step-by-step instructions for building:

  1. Clean and disinfect hands. They should be thoroughly washed with soap and then treated with an antiseptic.
  2. Prepare the nail. To do this, you need to carefully remove the cuticle from the surface of the nails and remove the upper fatty layer of the nail with a nail file for better adhesion of the material. Degrease natural nails.
  3. Apply a starting coat ("base"), 2 min. dry your nails under a lamp.
  4. Remove the top layer with a soft nail file after drying.
  5. Fix the template on the nails. It is important to ensure that the template is fixed exactly, parallel to natural nails.
  6. From the tip of the nail to its base, apply the gel with a brush. It is advisable to turn your finger over to evenly distribute the gel.
  7. For 3 min. put your fingernail under the lamp.
  8. After drying, apply another layer of gel to form an S-curve.
  9. Dry again, then remove the sticky layer.
  10. Remove the template and carefully polish the nails with a buff.
  11. Clean the nails from excess dust with a brush.
  12. If desired, you can decorate a manicure with a pattern, patterns, sparkles or rhinestones.
  13. Apply the top coat and dry the nails under the lamp for 2 minutes.
  14. Degrease and apply cuticle oil.

A beautiful manicure will decorate your hands for 3-4 weeks.

Silk

Build up nails with silk in tandem with an activator gel. Sometimes silk can be replaced by:

  • Fiberglass (fiberglass). When exposed to UV rays, it tends to glow in the dark;
  • Linen. This fabric is wider than silk, it is recommended to use it in an unusual manicure design (fabric surface).

This extension method can be a replacement for acrylic and gel. With some contraindications to the procedure (nail injuries, excessive sweating of the hands), silk extensions are more gentle on natural nails. Their nails can breathe easily, as the matter lets air through.

Step-by-step instruction extensions:

  1. Clean hands (wash with soap and disinfect).
  2. Prepare the nail (remove the cuticle, clean the nail with a nail file).
  3. Apply special glue to the nail, then apply matter.
  4. Using an orange stick, gently smooth the fabric along the plane of the nail, and cut off the excess fabric with nail scissors.
  5. Apply an activator gel (you can use shellac), then send the nail to dry under the lamp for 2-3 minutes.
  6. After drying, you need to shape the nail and polish it with a buff.
  7. Apply modeling gel and dry under the lamp.
  8. Degrease and apply a finish coat.
  9. Once again degrease and apply oil to the cuticle area.

Silk should be combined with gel or shellac, so it will be more durable.

Acrylic

The advantage of this extension is that acrylic dries without a lamp, and quite quickly. It does not run when applied and is more durable than other building materials. But such an extension has disadvantages and many contraindications (allergies, sweating, nail injuries, etc.).


There are 2 methods of using acrylic in manicure when it is applied to:

  • tips (light);
  • forms (complex).

For tips

The most convenient way to train beginners. The complexity of building is minimal. The nails are attached to a special glue, after which the material is applied over the tips.

The choice of shapes is varied: from square with sharp corners to almond-shaped shapes.

Step-by-step instruction:

  1. Cleansing and disinfection of hands and nails.
  2. Remove the cuticle and pterygium with an orange stick.
  3. Choose the right tips and fix it with a special glue.
  4. Correct the empty space between the tips and the edge of the finger. Treat the nail with a nail file so that it becomes matte.
  5. Degrease the nail and apply primer.
  6. Immerse the brush in liquid, and then dip it in acrylic powder.
  7. Put a circle on the center of the nail plate and form a nail.
  8. After the acrylic has hardened, file the nail with a nail file and buff it to a gloss.
  9. Lubricate the cuticles with oil.

On forms

Forms are disposable (made of paper or foil) and reusable (made of metal or plastic). Such a template is fixed around the nail plate and filled with modeling material. The advantage of this method is that it allows you to form any shape of nails.


Step-by-step instruction:

  1. Cleanse and sanitize hands.
  2. Remove the cuticle and glossy layer from the surface of the natural nail.
  3. Apply primer.
  4. Fix the form along the contour of the nail, dip the brush into the liquid and acrylic powder. Lay out the desired shape of the manicure.
  5. Remove the form, file the nail and buff to a gloss.
  6. Treat cuticles with oil.

Tip: the shape is fixed completely under the nail, otherwise the nails will not last long.

Common mistakes when building

How to grow nails at homeAvoid common mistakes, including:

  • Poor disinfection. Before the procedure, hands must be thoroughly washed and treated with an antiseptic. Instruments should be disinfected in a special machine and stored under a UV lamp when not in use.
  • Sawing of the nail plate. Before building up, 2-3 upper layers of a natural nail are removed, while the nail file should not be hard (abrasiveness from 180 to 240 Grit). A nail file with a smaller number of particles (from 80 to 150 Grit) is used when filing artificial nails and removes up to 60 layers. The wrong nail file can seriously damage natural nails.
  • Non-compliance with the geometry of nail modeling. If you do not follow the sequence of transverse lines and S-bend, there is a risk of accelerating the process of breaking the extended nail, as well as injury to the natural nail plate.
  • Incorrect removal of extended nails. Incomplete sawing of the upper layers of the material and the use of special solvents will be correct, after which a strengthening gel polish is applied to natural nails. Complete sawing with a milling cutter or highly abrasive nail files will be incorrect, this can lead to injury to natural nails.
  • Correction errors. In order not to lead to the formation of fungus and the development of microorganisms under the extended manicure, you should remove the upper layers and detachments with a nail file in advance. If this manipulation is inattentively treated, air is formed under the plates of the extended material - a favorable environment for the spread of bacteria. After cutting, you need to apply a modeling material on the remaining base from the previous extension.

Nail care after the procedure

You need to start caring for a manicure from the 1st day of the procedure. According to experts, some simple rules should be followed for a satisfying work result.

Basic care requirements:

  • Need to give up hot water(in the first 2 days), saunas, baths and a sharp change in temperature;
  • Limit contact with detergents and cleaners. use gloves;
  • Should be used special creams and lotions that do not moisturize the skin of the hands;
  • It is required to take care of the manicure (do not wave your arms, do not tap your nails on a hard surface, etc.).

Initially, getting used to such a manicure can be difficult.

To build nails at home correctly, you need to heed the advice of professionals.

  • It is necessary to carefully approach the choice of material and equipment, not to save on them;
  • It is advisable to start with extensions on tips, as this is one of the easiest methods;
  • Thorough disinfection of hands and tools should be carried out before work;
  • It is not necessary to neglect the initial examination of the hands and nails to make sure that there are no contraindications to building;
  • The material must be in stock;
  • If tips are used, they should be selected in advance of the desired shape.

Video recommendations on how to grow nails at home

Secrets of how to grow nails at home:

How to build nails at home with gel on tips:

Thus, the opportunity to learn how to do a manicure with nails of any shape is at home. The main thing is to first familiarize yourself with all the requirements and conditions of the procedure.

Now you will not surprise anyone with artificial nails. In an hour, you can decorate your hands with nails of any shape and the most incredible design. Gel extensions are very popular among women. What types of it exist and how to build gel nails on your own?

Let's help you choose!

If you do not know what to choose for building - gel or acrylic - read in which we described in detail the advantages and disadvantages of both methods.

Gel nail extension methods

On tips

Tips are artificial plates that are glued to the nail with a special substance and covered with a gel on top. They come in various sizes and shapes and are selected individually for each nail. The more plastic the tips, the better the artificial nails will be. Plasticity is checked by bending the plate in half. In this case, there should not be a groove.

Benefits of building on tips:

  • High speed of the procedure.
  • Suitable for brittle and damaged nails.
  • Can be built up with both gel and acrylic.
  • Great for large nails.

Flaws:

  • Not all nail shapes can be done.
  • Nails become flat.
  • Not suitable for flared nails.

On forms

Forms are templates on which the master lays out the gel. They can be disposable or reusable.

This extension method is divided into 2 subspecies:

  • Building on the lower forms.
  • Building on the upper forms.

Advantages of building on forms:

  • The ability to make nails of any shape, thin and elegant.
  • The nails are very strong.
  • Improve the shape of natural nails.

Flaws:

  • Qualitatively build up on wide nails with large pillows can only be done by a good master.
  • The procedure lasts longer than when building on tips.

It is difficult to answer the question which gel nail extension technology is better. It all depends on the initial state and shape of your natural nails.

What do you need for gel nail extension?

Before you start building, you need to prepare everything you need.

Standard set:

  1. A lamp, preferably with a built-in timer;
  2. Gel;
  3. Forms or tips;
  4. Means for removing the sticky layer;
  5. Disinfectant;
  6. Finishing gel;
  7. Flat brush for applying gel;
  8. A set of files;
  9. Tweezers;
  10. primer;
  11. Glue for tips;
  12. Polishing pad (buff).

That depends on the chosen extension method. Before buying, it is better to study the information about the tools in detail and choose the most suitable models. You can buy a ready-made kit for beginners.

Gel nail extension step by step

To better understand the technique of nail extension, it will be useful to watch video tutorials with detailed description process and photos with the results of the decor.

Gel nail extension on tips

This method involves the preparation of the top layer of the nail, but, unlike building on forms, the gel is applied over the tips. The process is faster and easier for the beginner.

The main stages of the process:

  1. Hands are treated with a disinfectant.
  2. The cuticle moves back. Skin growths and other defects are removed.
  3. Nails are filed under the tip hole.
  4. The top shiny layer is removed. The surface of the nail is processed with a file to a matte color. Movement should be light, in one direction.
  5. The brush removes dust from the surface of the nail.
  6. The size of the tips is selected individually for each nail. The width should match the nail.
  7. A drop of glue is applied to the inside of the tips, and it is pressed against the nail for 10 seconds. Remove excess glue.
  8. With the help of two files, the edges of the tips are pressed against the nail.
  9. Tips are cut to the desired length.
  10. The required form is given.
  11. The joint lines are cleaned with a file, then the surface is treated with a buff until the gloss disappears completely. Periodically, dust is removed from the nail plate.
  12. The primer is applied.
  13. A modeling gel is applied on top, carefully distributed over the tips. The hand is turned over for a few seconds to level the solution.
  14. The nail is placed in the lamp.
  15. After drying, the gel is reapplied and dried.
  16. The sticky layer is removed cotton pad dipped in a special agent.
  17. Using a file and a polishing block, the top layer of the nail is leveled.
  18. Dust is brushed off with a brush or brush.
  19. The final layer of mortar is applied.

Gel nail extension on forms

For extension, both disposable and reusable forms can be used. Reusable ones are more convenient, but require care after the procedure, so disposable ones are most often used, and besides, they have a low cost.

On the lower forms

The technology consists in the use of special overlays that are applied to the inside of the nail and a layer of gel is laid out on them. The technology is not very simple and requires skill.

Extension steps:

  1. The hands of the client and the master are treated with an antiseptic. It is more convenient to use the product in the form of a spray. Excess funds are removed with a cotton pad.
  2. The first stage is degreasing. The upper shiny layer of the nail plate is removed with a file. The abrasiveness of the file is 240. Movement in one direction, without pressure on the nail. The surface should become completely matte. The zones near the nail shaft are carefully processed. Then the nails are treated with a buff, after which they are degreased with a cotton pad moistened with a special agent.
  3. A universal product is applied that serves as a base coat and top coat. The nail is dried in a lamp for 2 minutes.
  4. After drying in the lamp, the top layer will be removed.
  5. If the shape of the nail does not match the rest, the file is adjusted.
  6. The paper form is placed under the nail, the evenness of the center is checked. The edges of the form are pinched, and it is fixed on the finger.
  7. With a special brush No. 6, the gel is applied in the form of a drop, starting from the tip of the nail. Maximum compaction is made in the center. For the nail to take nice shape, the finger flips. For 3 minutes, the nail is placed to dry in an ultraviolet lamp.
  8. After drying, another layer of gel is applied to raise the S-curve. Again, the nail is turned over for alignment and a drop is formed. The nail is placed under the lamp for 3 minutes.
  9. After drying with a degreasing agent, the sticky layer is removed, then the form is removed.
  10. With the help of a file, the shape of the nail is attached, in this case a droplet.
  11. The grinding block evens out the surface, removes small nicks and smoothes the top coat.
  12. Dust is removed with a cotton pad.
  13. The final layer is applied and the nail is dried in the lamp for 2 minutes.
  14. After drying, the nail is degreased. The nail is ready.

For upper forms

Unlike the previous method, this technique is much simpler: no need to form an S-bend. The nail is perfectly smooth. After a few workouts, you can make a manicure that is no different from a professional one. Not so long ago, extensions to the upper forms were made only with acrylic, and today gel is actively used. It is important to follow the technique and carefully process the nail plate so that the grip is strong.


Extension steps:

  1. As always, the extension begins with the disinfection of the hands of the master and the client.
  2. The nail plate is prepared, the upper shiny layer is removed, the cuticle is pushed back. Skin growths are also removed from the surface of the nail plate.
  3. A degreaser is applied.
  4. The upper mold is selected individually for each nail.
  5. A design gel is laid out in the center of the mold, dried in a lamp.
  6. A small amount of solution is laid out in the cuticle area.
  7. The form prepared with the gel is applied to the nail plate at an angle of 45 degrees.
  8. The finger is placed under the lamp for 20 seconds.
  9. Excess gel solution is removed from the inside.
  10. Nails are dried in a lamp for at least 3 minutes.
  11. The upper form is carefully removed.
  12. A special tool removes the sticky layer from the inside of the nail.
  13. The tip of the nail is given the desired shape.
  14. Dust is removed with a brush, if desired, a three-phase gel is applied for shine, which does not have a sticky layer.

Nail extension with upper forms has a great advantage - this method can be used on thin nails, small plates.

Gel extension on tips in French style:

French made with gel polishes:

The procedure for gel nail extension is not very complicated, if desired, it can be easily mastered. But it must be remembered that if the nails are damaged, there are fungal diseases or burrs, then it is better to postpone the procedure for a while. You should also responsibly approach the choice of nail shape and length, taking into account your lifestyle and place of work.