Types Of Fake Nails: Everything You Need To Know | Nailboo (2024)

There are many reasons to consider getting artificial nails the next time you go in for a manicure or apply your set at home. Artificial nail manicures can last a long time, which means you won’t need to spend time and money on manicures as often.

They’re durable and strong, so you won’t have to concern yourself about chips or damage. And one of the main reasons so many style icons and fashion-forward folks love artificial nails is that you have tons of creative and unique style ideas to pick from.

When it comes to finding the perfect artificial nail for your needs, Nailboo is here to help. We carry a wide catalog of easy-to-use nail dip kits and tools and we’re sharing information on the many different types of artificial nails and manicure ideas. Get the looks you love with the support of Nailboo today.

Types of Fake Nails

The more you know about the different types of fake nails, the easier it will be to find the right fit for your style needs. Here are some of the top fake nail options you have to pick from.

Acrylics

Acrylics are one of the most common fake nail options to pick from, and it’s not hard to see why acrylics have been so popular for so long. They are incredibly strong, which also makes them flexible and durable, so you don’t have to worry about chips or damage to your nail style.

That strength also makes them a great option if you like long nails or shaped styles like coffin or stiletto nails. They can be cut and styled without losing their structural integrity, and once you have that perfect shape, you can then apply all of your favorite patterns, decals, and designs.

There are many benefits to acrylic nails, but it’s important to know about drawbacks, as well. They can take longer to apply than other options, so you can expect to spend at least a few hours at the salon.

While they can last up to six weeks, you may need regular fill-ins to keep them looking as sharp as that first application. You also want to schedule manicure breaks, to give your natural nails a chance to heal between acrylic nail applications.

Gels

If you’re looking for all the great benefits of acrylic nails with a little less impact on the nail below, then you may want to consider gel nails instead. Gel manicures are smooth, chic, and very long-lasting, as the polish is cured under a UV lamp, which hardens it. This means you can engage with all your favorite activities and events without having to worry about your gel manicure chipping.

If acrylic nails are a good option for long, shapely styles, then gels are the right choice for achieving more natural looks. If you like shorter nail styles, like square, circle, and squoval styles, gel nails can help you achieve them with ease. And you can still embrace many unique and exciting styles and designs, like glitter, ombre, splatter, and more.

It’s recommended that you have your gel nails removed at the salon, but it’s not required. With a few simple tools, you can gently remove your gel nails at home when the time comes, so you can begin planning that next great manicure.

You will want to allow your nails some time to breathe between appointments, as with acrylics. It’s also important to know that, though minor, gel nails do require some exposure to UV light.

Shellac

Shellac nails combine two different types of nail polish application—gel and traditional polish—and they take the benefits of both.

Gel manicures provide plenty of durability, longevity, and protection during use, which you can expect from Shellac nails. Traditional nail polish tends to deliver a truly shiny and classic design, and nail polish comes in many unique colors and styles. When you pick out a set of Shellac nails, you’ll enjoy all the advantages of both kinds, for a smoother, shinier manicure that really lasts.

Because of the polish, Shellac nails do have a natural appearance. But with more than 100 unique colors and styles to pick from, you’re sure to find a Shellac manicure that really fits your personal appearance and style preferences.

Dip Polish

Here at Nailboo, we’re all about the dip polish manicure. A dip polish kit, like the kind you’ll find right in our catalog, can help you to achieve salon-quality styles without the salon-quality costs.

But you don’t need to sacrifice style for ease and versatility. You’ll be able to find dip polishes in shades of glitters, neons, gem styles, pastels, and more. Whatever your next adventure or big event might call for, there’s a beautiful dip powder color here for you.

Dip powder is easy to use and you can still apply all of your favorite styles and designs, like French tips, ombre, and more. You’ll simply apply the polish, dip it into your powder, and then shake off any excess, repeating as needed to get the colors you love. Once you have the perfect shade, simply apply your topcoat to seal it all into place.

There are many reasons to love a dip polish manicure. It’s long-lasting, high-quality, and great at protecting your nails against damage. It’s also easy to remove right at home with the use of a few simple tools and materials.

Dip powder can last several weeks, is gentler on the nails and the skin around the nails than other fake nail options, and doesn’t require the use of a UV lamp. And you can still add all your favorite decals, stamps, and designs to your next manicure with ease.

Conclusion

When it comes time for the next fake nail manicure, you have lots of options to pick from. Fake nails are durable and long-lasting and will save you time and money on your next manicure since you won’t need to return to the salon as often as with traditional manicures.

Plus, you have lots of options for creativity and personal expression, since fake nails can help you to add length, try out new and exciting shapes, and share all the best colors and styles, from glitter to ombre, to gems and decals.

Some of the most common fake nail options to pick from include acrylics, gels, Shellac nails, and dip powder manicures. There are benefits and drawbacks to each style, depending on your manicure needs, so it’s always a good idea to do your research to find the best option for your lifestyle.

When you’re ready to learn more about the dip powder process, Nailboo is here to help. We’re dedicated to making it as fun and easy as possible to begin the nail dip manicure journey right at home. That’s why we’re sharing easy-to-use nail dip kits that you can try out today. And that’s not all.

We also have a growing library of resources, guides, and materials, for fun and unique manicure inspiration, no matter what kind of nails you have. Which fake nail method, style, and design will you try out first?

Shop the Look

Shop the amazing products you need to get perfect fake nails, every time!

  1. Essential Dip Kit
  2. Pro-Touch Nail Tips + Glue Bundle
  3. Essential Liquids
  4. French Tips: Sweater Weather and Nail-flex and Chill
  5. Ombre: Baby Blues and Lilac Attack

Sources:

8 Things You Need to Know Before Getting Acrylic Nails | Cosmopolitan

Gel Manicures: Tips for Healthy Nails | American Academy of Dermatology Association

Shellac Nails vs. Gel Manicures Explained | Harper’s Bazaar

Types Of Fake Nails: Everything You Need To Know | Nailboo (2024)

FAQs

Types Of Fake Nails: Everything You Need To Know | Nailboo? ›

Some of the most common fake nail options to pick from include acrylics, gels, Shellac nails, and dip powder manicures. There are benefits and drawbacks to each style, depending on your manicure needs, so it's always a good idea to do your research to find the best option for your lifestyle.

What are the different types of fake nails? ›

Gel, acrylic, and silk nails are widely used. Most people choose gels or acrylics when they're committing for a longer time. Silks are most often used for a shorter time to strengthen nail tips or repair nail trauma, rather than making nails longer.

What is the healthiest fake nail option? ›

Choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails.

This means your own nails are less likely to crack. You'll want to ask for gel nails that soak off rather than ones that must be filed off.

What are professional fake nails called? ›

Artificial nails, also known as fake nails, false nails, acrylic nails, nail extensions or nail enhancements, are extensions placed over fingernails as fashion accessories.

What false nails last the longest? ›

Dip Nails Last Longer

Whilst acrylic nails tend to last between two to three weeks before needing a touch-up at the salon, dip nails can last up to four weeks. Dip nails also last longer than gels.

Which fake nails look most natural? ›

If acrylic nails are a good option for long, shapely styles, then gels are the right choice for achieving more natural looks. If you like shorter nail styles, like square, circle, and squoval styles, gel nails can help you achieve them with ease.

What is full set fake nails? ›

An Acrylic full-set, also known as nail extensions, is the most popular and will usually be put on top of the tip extensions, adding length or using nail forms to achieve a more natural look. Each acrylic is then shaped as desired and painted with polish.

What to avoid with fake nails? ›

Opening cans, playing ball games, etc. Are some things that you should avoid doing with fake nails. This can cause breakage and even chip off. Imagine one nail chipped off and others secure.

Why are false nails not recommended? ›

While the nails aren't harmful, putting them on and taking them off can involve acids and other chemicals that could cause allergic reactions. Damage to artificial nails also can lead to fungal infections and other problems.

What are the thinnest fake nails? ›

The thinnest nail enhancements are silk or fiberglass wraps which are not often done these days, though you can still find nail techs that do them if you ask around enough.

Is gel or dip better for your nails? ›

Though dip powders are generally considered the gentlest option, both gels and dips can be used long-term without damaging your nails. Once again, choosing a high-quality product – and taking care of your nails properly – are the most important factors when it comes to nail health.

What is polygel? ›

"Polygel is a hybrid product of acrylic and gel," explains Candice Idehen, manicurist and CEO of New York City-based Bed of Nails NYC salon. "That's where 'poly' comes from; it's two products in one." Polygel is used as a nail enhancement to create extensions or as a hard, protective overlay on natural nails.

What is the least damaging fake nail? ›

No Damage to Natural Nails

Gel nails are less likely to cause damage to natural nails than acrylic nails. They are less harsh on the natural nails during the application and removal process, which can be beneficial for people with weaker nails.

What type of fake nails are the strongest? ›

Acrylic nails are known for their strength and durability.

Should I get acrylic or dip nails? ›

It really depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for the most durable option possible, acrylic nails are the way to go. However, if you're looking for an option that is easier to remove, dip nails may be a better choice. Gel nails are a good middle ground between the two.

What nails are better, acrylic or gel? ›

If durability and dramatic length are key, acrylics are the way to go. They're tougher and can be sculpted into long, elaborate designs. However, if you crave a more natural look and prioritize nail health, then a gel manicure might be better.

What are polygel nails? ›

"Polygel is a hybrid product of acrylic and gel," explains Candice Idehen, manicurist and CEO of New York City-based Bed of Nails NYC salon. "That's where 'poly' comes from; it's two products in one." Polygel is used as a nail enhancement to create extensions or as a hard, protective overlay on natural nails.

Are fake nails better than acrylic? ›

So who wins this debate? Press on nails hands down! They don't cause damage to your nails, they are more cost-effective, more time-saving and more gentle on your nails. Pretty Pro press on false nails are high quality so they will still look Pretty and will last a long time when applied & cared for correctly.

What fake nails do salons use? ›

Acrylic nails are created by combining liquid acrylic and acrylic powders to form a hardened substance that fits over your natural nail. This nail salon alchemy is quite common and popular, and technicians require skills and techniques they've honed over years of practice to make your nails look exquisite.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Margart Wisoky

Last Updated:

Views: 5369

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (78 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Margart Wisoky

Birthday: 1993-05-13

Address: 2113 Abernathy Knoll, New Tamerafurt, CT 66893-2169

Phone: +25815234346805

Job: Central Developer

Hobby: Machining, Pottery, Rafting, Cosplaying, Jogging, Taekwondo, Scouting

Introduction: My name is Margart Wisoky, I am a gorgeous, shiny, successful, beautiful, adventurous, excited, pleasant person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.