Acrylic artificial nails are an exciting option to beautify your hands and make them look just fabulously chic. Though a rage in the U.S., the trend is catching up in India and becoming the latest fashion statement. In fact, they are no longer a luxury but have become a necessity.

Artificial nails can be Acrylic Liquid and Powder Nails which are the most popular and sturdy or they could also be Gel based or Fibre Glass Nails, Silkwrap or Sculptured Nails. The technique of fixing these artificial nails requires specialized training and products, so you don't find them available at regular salons. Specially trained Nail Technicians are required to do the treatments. Besides Extensions, Nail Art is also popular and this has various variants in the technique used and can be done either with Nail Paint, Air Brushing, Nail Piercing or even Nail Jewels can be used.In the first sitting during an acrylic nail treatment a new set of nails are used. Thereafter you need sittings of “fill-ins” every 2 to 3 weeks. The set can be kept on for 3 to 4 months if you do the fill-ins regularly.

Artificial nails are a good option for those who just cannot grow nails or even for habitual nail biters. It is extremely popular among models and the film stars. These nails are to be removed by soaking the nails in acetone and then being tended to by a manicurist.

Nail Care Tips:

• Moisturize daily with Vaseline.
• Keep a base coat on, especially for nails that are brittle. It protects the nails especially when working in water.
• Never cut or peel your cuticles as they will only grow shabbier and cause “hang nails”
• Soak nails in warm vitamin E oil in order to strengthen them.
• Tap finger tips gently on a table top to increase circulation.
• Wear gloves when gardening or doing household chores or working with detergents.
• Do not use nails as tools - do not abuse them. Especially do not use nails to open tins and boxes etc.
• Too much nail polish remover causes brittleness.
• Use emery boards and not metal filers when filing, as they can split nails.

Sunita Motwani Makhija LCGI
Sunita Motwani-Makhija is an Internationally qualified Beautician and Hair Consultant and is Director of the Schnell Hans chain of Beauty Schools & Salons in Mumbai, India that conducts Basic and Advanced courses and also the City & International Qualifications. Sunita is the first Indian to have been conferred the prestigious Licentiateship in Hairdressing by City & Guilds, U.K. For all beauty and hair related queries, she may be contacted at schnellhans@rbcsgroup.com . For appointments dial (022) 22832499 / 24467661 / 23612919