Acrylic nails are commonly referred to as “fake nails” or “artificial nails.” This type of nail enhancement is done professionally in a nail salon. Acrylic nails use plastic nail tips with an overlay of acrylic powder that has been applied with a liquid. Gel nails are also a type of artificial nail enhancement. The gel acrylic is comprised of a thick viscosity gel. It is applied to the natural nail or a nail tip. Acrylic nails are a good choice for those who have difficulty growing their own nails.
Manicures and pedicures have become increasingly popular and are generally an inexpensive nail enhancement. Manicures consist of the removal of old polish, trimming of the nails to the desired length, soaking of the hands, softening of the cuticles, pushing of the cuticles, exfoliating of the hands, moisturizing and re-applying polish. Pedicures consist of old polish removal, soaking of the feet, buffing of the nails and exfoliation of the skin, trimming and filing of the toenails, moisturizing, softening and pushing of the cuticles and application of polish.
Airbrushing is another form of nail art. Water-based paints are sprayed onto the nails with an airbrush. This application can be done free-hand or stencils can be used. Airbrushing allows for the use of many different colors on one nail. Airbrushing is also an affordable way to display art on fingernails. Once the airbrushing has been completed and the paints have dried, it is necessary to seal the designs with a topcoat.
Freestyle nail art allows the nail technician the ability to express herself through the nail art and to create art for the client. Any design imaginable can be created on a fingernail with a steady hand and some creativity. Free style art can be as simple as zebra stripes or polka dots or can be as elaborate as sunsets, and animals. Decorative gems and nail jewelry are also used frequently in freestyle nail art.