Polish change? Yes please!
French manicure? Oh la la!

But what do the rest of the services offered at your local nail salon really entail? From Silk Wraps to Acrylic Overlays, we’re here to nail down the facts!

Acrylics

We begin with a nail trend reminiscent of the crazy eighties. Recognized as the most hated member of the nail extension family, Acrylic nails are the cheapest, thickest and most durable of all. Unfortunately, they also cause significant damage, as the process requires drilling of the nail bed. Also, Acrylics run a risk of lifting the longer they are kept on, which can lead to all sorts of fungus and bacteria growth.

There are two types of Acrylics. An Acrylic Overlay sits atop your entire natural fingernail and holds polish longer, while an Acrylic Tip is an extension of the nail that goes beneath the nail bed and is used exclusively for length.

Gels

Made up of polymers and monomers, most Gels must be set with an ultraviolet light. The two most popular types include UV Gels – which have a charming chemical spill-like odour – and my personal favourite - Bio Sculpture Gels. The latter have no dust, fumes or odour and better preserve the health of your natural nails. They can also be removed by soaking fingers in acetone as opposed to Acrylics, which literally have to be chiseled off.

The Gels are also known for holding polish well (no chipping the day after application!) and can be used in conjunction with an Acrylic Tip for length, or simply on top of your nails for extra strength. Like most artificial nail extension methods, Gels should be filled every 2 to 3 weeks.

Wrap Nails

The most luxurious (and pricey!) fakes of them all are the Wrap Nails. These are thin pieces of silk, fiberglass, linen or paper material that are glued to the natural nail surface. While they look uber natural, Wrap Nails loose the battle of durability each and every time. For this reason, they are used mainly to ‘repair’ cracks.

Then there are those ladies among us who have been blessed with long and healthy nails. If you are that lucky, we beg you not to ruin what your mama gave you! The artificial methods are best suited for those of us struggling with nasty nail biting habits or brittle nails that just don’t look right without extra help.

Instead, we suggest taking your hands out of their comfort zone with some funky nail art; no need to wait for a special occasion! Go ahead and treat yourself to airbrushing, jewels, decals, or even hand art done by a nail technician. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not try the Reverse French Manicure? It hasn’t yet trickled down to the masses, so why not be the first to start the trend?


We love OPI's Done Out in Deco, Give Me the Moon, Plugged-In Plum, and Significant Other Color

If you’re wondering what polish to pick up for Spring 2009, we’ve got your nails covered. Throw out those blacks and navies – gothic tones are OUT! Instead, opt for light shades of grey or lilac, which is THE colour of the season. Subtle pinks and nude tones are also quite fresh and easy to wear. Alternately, if it’s colour you’re lusting after, you’re in luck. Corals, berry colours, blues, and purples have been making their rounds on the runways. And if plum is good enough for Karl Lagerfeld, it’s certainly good enough for us!

by Olga Barsky