Artificial Nail Enhancements (Sculptured, Tips, Wraps, Gels)
The families
Sculptured nails are built with a liquid monomer and powder polymer over a form. Tip-and-overlay services attach a pre-formed tip at the free edge, then overlay it. Wraps use fabric (silk, fiberglass, linen) with resin or adhesive. UV/LED gel systems cure under light and include hard gels, soft gels, and gel polish. Each family has its own removal method, and matching product to removal is a frequent question.
Structure and terminology
Know the apex (the thickest point over the stress area), the stress zone, sidewalls, smile line, free edge, and the seam where a tip meets the natural plate. A correctly built nail is thin at the cuticle and sidewalls, thicker at the stress area, and balanced front to back.
Liquid and powder
The bead ratio controls everything. A bead that is too wet (monomer-heavy) shrinks, stains, and lifts; too dry and it crumbles and looks cloudy. Aim for a workable medium bead that holds its shape. Primer improves adhesion on the natural plate; it is not a substitute for proper plate preparation and dehydration. Mixing brands of monomer and polymer can produce service breakdown.
Gels and curing
Cure times are product- and lamp-specific. The inhibition layer on many gels is uncured product - remove it per the manufacturer's instructions, and never touch it with bare fingers. Overfiling the natural plate, applying product onto skin, and applying gel too thickly all cause lifting or service breakdown.
Removal and safety
Soak off soft gels and wraps with the manufacturer's solvent; do not pry, drill, or bite off product. MMA (methyl methacrylate) liquid is prohibited in most jurisdictions and produces rigid, damaging enhancements. Work with ventilation and dust extraction.
Rule of thumb
If product touches skin, it will lift. Keep every application off the surrounding tissue and thin at the edges.