Artificial nail extensions are nail coatings applied over natural nails. They provide a protective coating for the nail plate and may extend beyond the free edge of the natural nail to add length. These are broadly classified into three categories:
(1) liquid/powder systems, commonly referred to as acrylics;
(2) light-cured systems, commonly referred to as gels; and
(3) wraps.
These systems should be applied by properly trained nail professionals who know how to prepare the nail plate, maintain the artificial nail and understand proper and safe removal techniques. Liquid/powder acrylic system Liquid/powder acrylic systems contain two components, a liquid acrylic monomerA molecule that comprises the repeating unit of a polymer. and a solid acrylic powder. The liquid monomer is a blend of methacrylate monomers and special additives, e.g. an amine “catalystA substance that facilitates a chemical reaction, but which itself is not chemically changed by the reaction.”, to speed hardening. The solid powder portion is made from methacrylate polymers, colorants and an “initiator,” which starts the hardening process. The slurry resulting from mixing the powder and liquid is applied to the pre-cleaned and properly prepared natural nail. After hardening, an abrasaive file is used to shape the artificial nail to desired length and shape. Priming the natural nail prior to application with adhesion promoting ingredients is often essential for wear longevity.
The ingredients used are safe when application service is performed by a properly trained nail professional. Care should be taken to avoid prolonged or repeated direct skin contact, due to the skin sensitization potential of some ingredients. Discontinue use immediately if skin irritation occurs. Light-cured systems A light-cured system is a viscous gel that is cured under UVA lamp. UV cured systems are similar in many ways to liquid/powder systems, but instead contain oligomer based ingredients such as polyurethane acrylate or methacrylates and a UV light sensitive initiator (photoiniator). The ingredients are safe when the application is performed by a properly trained nail professional. Care should be taken to avoid prolonged or repeated direct skin contact, due to the skin sensitization potential of some ingredients. Discontinue use immediately if skin irritation occurs. Wraps Wraps are a three component system that consists of a wrap material, usually made from fabric, fiberglass or a paper, a cyanoacrylate glue, and an amine catalyst to speed hardening. The wrap system is designed to provide strength to the natural nail. The curing of glue is hastened by the accelerator. This system is used only for overlays, not for nail extensions. The ingredients are safe as used when product directions are followed with care. Discontinue use immediately if skin irritation occurs.
