
No UV light is needed to dry this type of overlay, only air.

Once you’re satisfied, a topcoat is applied and helps set the underlying coats of base liquid and powder. You can repeat this process until the desired thickness is reached, but 2-3 coats is usually enough. Acrylic DipĪcrylic dip powders are a newer method of acrylic overlay.ĭip powder involves prepping the nail and then painting on a special transparent base lacquer, which is a glue-type liquid that helps the acrylic powder stick to the nail.

It can be applied to the surface of the nail using a powder dipping method, or it can be painted on, similar to the process of acrylic nail extensions. AcrylicĪcrylic overlay is made of liquid or powder acrylic polymer, which is similar to resin.Īcrylic polymer is basically a type of plastic made up of slightly larger molecules than those used in gel overlay.Īcrylic overlay is favored by nail technicians for its transparency, resistance to breakage, and flexibility. The type of acrylic used in gel overlay is not as thick as pure acrylic overlay and is much more flexible.Īfter curing, the previously-liquid gel turns into a hard, chemical-resistant coating.Ī gel overlay lets you build on your natural nail shape and length with the added bonus of a thick and glossy pop of vibrant color (or not, we love every shade of nude). Gel overlay is made of acrylic monomers and oligomers, which are types of tiny plastic molecules commonly used in cosmetics.Īcrylic monomers are liquid plastics that bond or stick together when cured under UV light. Let us now take a closer look at each one: Gel All of which are artificial ingredients that harden when exposed to air or UV light. There are three types of nail overlays, all of which are made from a different material: Gel, shellac, or acrylic. Let us answer all the questions and more! With proper training, nail overlays can become part of your home manicure routine, or you can visit your favorite nail tech for the latest in overlay trends.īut what are they made of, how are they applied, how much do they cost and tend to last for? Whether you choose a simple overlay, like gel or shellac or nail extensions, depends on the look you are trying to achieve. They can be as simple or ornate as you like, and you can even add nail extensions beneath the overlay itself for that extra bit of length. Nail overlays are also an effective solution for those of us who have absolutely zero patience for letting our nails grow longer naturally and want longer nails now. They are also a great way to add length and strength to your nails, whether they are already thick and strong or weak and brittle. Whether you have long nails, short nails, big nails, or small nails, nail overlays are a quick and easy way to achieve a glossy and glamorous manicure that lasts for weeks at a time. Overlays can be combined with nail extensions for extra length and a more customized look. Overlays do not typically extend the nail and instead use the existing natural nail as a base.

So, what are nail overlays? A nail overlay is an artificial coating of acrylic or gel that is applied on top of the natural nail, usually in multiple thin layers. Have you heard of or been introduced to nail overlays? Are you wondering what they are and whether or not to give them a try? Well, here is everything you are going to want to know about this particular manicure.
