What You Should Know Before Going to a Nail Salon

If you have ever been to a nail salon then you know that they provide a lot of services, and sometimes it can be hard to understand what they all do. Before your next visit to the salon, here are some common things you should know about what they offer. 

What are Gel Nails 

If you tend to go old school and use a regular polish, then you should consider getting gel nails. Gel nails are closely related to traditional nail polish but with a huge advantage — they don’t chip. A gel manicure works by using a polish with a gel base. When the technician paints your nails, they will cure the gel using a UV or LED light. After it has been under the light, it will harden and leave you with strong nails that don’t chip.   

What are SNS Nails 

SNS stands for Signature Nail System and is a way to decorate your nails using a powder dipping system. When you go into the salon and ask for SNS, they will bring you to an area with numerous powders of all different colors. Once you find a color you like, let your technician know so they can apply that powder to your nails. Be aware that SNS is thicker than gel nails but thinner than acrylic nails. It is the perfect medium between them. 

When you are in the salon chair, a system is followed to ensure your SNS manicure looks just right. First, a clear base coat is applied to your nails so that the dipping powder will stick. Next, a technician will dip each of your nails in the powder so the color is added to your nail. This dipping process will repeat a few times to increase the strength of your nail and maximize the color. The powder will then be filed down so there is a smooth surface and a top coat is added. 

What are Acrylic Nails 

Acrylic nails are for those who like to have super durable nails that won’t break easily. They don’t look natural but they can be worn as a statement. Acrylic is made of a powder that is blended with a liquid so it can form on your nails. The difference between SNS and acrylic is that acrylic is applied as a wet powder whereas SNS is applied as a dry powder. 

The system used when doing acrylic nails is first, the technician uses a dehydrator on the nails so that the powder holds on to the nail better. Then, they mix the powder with the liquid and apply it to the nail using a brush. After the powder has dried, a drill is used to file down the powder. Lastly, a top coat is applied and you can enjoy your acrylic nails. No UV or LED lights are needed to cure acrylic so once the top coat is added, there are no more steps. 

Different Nail Shapes 

After you understand the difference between gel, SNS, and acrylic, you need to learn about nail shapes. When you get your nails done, your technician will ask you what shape you would like your nails to be in. To help you decide, here is a list of a few popular nail shapes and a description of what they look like. 

Almond 

The almond shape is named after its similar appearance to the tip of an almond. This shape gradually thins out the nail and ends in a round tip. Almond nails have become trendy in recent months for their ability to elongate the appearance of your fingers. 

Coffin 

Coffin-shaped nails look like the tip of a coffin. It is wider at the bottom and thins out. Instead of coming to a full point, it is flattened at the tip. 

Square 

A square shape is a very traditional choice to go with. This shape files your nails into two points on each side, resembling a square. 

Stiletto 

Stiletto is very similar to a coffin shape but instead of the tip being flattened, it is sharpened. This shape is perfect for those who are looking for a dramatic nail style. 

Round 

Similar to the almond shape, round nails are more of a smooth look. The difference between the two is that the almond shape comes to a small point at the top whereas the round shape has no point. 

After reading this article, you know exactly what services the nail salon provides and what to ask for. Have fun and be creative!