Ever since I was younger, I’ve always loved the feeling of doing my nails and showing them off. In middle school, not a day went by that I did not have my nails done. However, since growing older, I am no longer satisfied with my own work, so I love going to the nail salon. Let’s discuss the most popular manicure styles and the pros/cons of each.Â
French ManicureÂ
This manicure style is elegant and classy. The nail bed is painted with a pale pink or nude base and the tips of the nails are painted with white polish. French manicures are also versatile and complement many different outfits. This manicure, however, is susceptible to chipping after a few days and is prone to staining due to light color.Â
Gel ManicureÂ
Gel is applied just like regular nail polish, but uses a UV light lamp to dry. Gel polish lasts for weeks, and is much more durable than regular polish. The application also only takes about 30 minutes. There are some downsides to gel manicures, however; gel polish can be difficult and time-consuming to remove. Removal not done by a professional can also damage your nail bed.Â
Acrylics (my personal fav!)
Acrylics are artificial nail extensions that provide length and strength to the natural nail. You can shape your nail the way you desire, including almond, square, and oval. Acrylics, like gel, require a UV light to set. The downsides of acrylics include regular fill-in appointments, which get expensive after a while. Acrylics are also more expensive than other nail treatments and often lead to brittle nails even with proper maintenance.Â
Dip Powder
For dip powder nails, a technician will brush a pigmented powder over your nails to create an opaque layer of color. A liquid sealant is applied on top to harden the powder. Dip powder manicures typically last around 4 weeks, longer than gel and acrylics. This manicure also does not require UV light, which damages your skin barrier after repeated usage.Â
The possibilities of manicures are endless. Choosing a manicure depends on many factors: how long you want them to last, nail health, and level of maintenance. Nails are a great way to express yourself, and I always feel better leaving the nail salon!