Nail Tips, Wraps, and Extensions
This domain covers artificial nail structures that add length or strength: tips, wraps, and extensions. Questions focus on fit, adhesion, structure, and preventing lifting or damage.
Tips
Select a tip that matches the free edge width and sidewalls without pinching or overhanging. The well should fit the natural nail contour. Apply adhesive sparingly; glue on skin causes irritation and lifting. Blend the tip seam smoothly into the plate, then shape the extension. A tip that is too small creates stress at the sidewalls; too large creates a ledge that catches and lifts.
Wraps
Wraps use fabric, fiberglass, or silk with a resin or adhesive overlay to strengthen the nail. Prep the plate, apply the wrap without bubbles, and build thin layers. Excess resin creates bulk and curing problems. The wrap should follow the natural curvature and not extend onto skin.
Extension structure
Think in zones: zone 1 is the free edge, zone 2 the stress area, zone 3 the cuticle area. The apex belongs in the stress area for strength. Sidewalls should be straight and not bulky. A proper C-curve gives strength without pinching the nail bed. Keep product off skin and cure or set fully.
Worked example
A tip overhangs the sidewall by 2 mm. If you glue it anyway, the overhang catches on objects, concentrates stress, and lifts. The correct response is to remove it, choose a narrower tip, and re-fit before blending.
Traps
Gluing tips to skin, using too much adhesive, leaving bubbles under wraps, making extensions too thick, and skipping nail prep are mark-losers.