Hands and nails have become an important beauty focus for many women through the years. This is why many women are regularly getting their nails done. Aside from keeping the nails healthy and polished, getting a manicure is also a way to show your personality and creativity. It enables people to try different colors and nail design trends.
When choosing your best manicure, there are many factors to be considered. Some of these include your lifestyle, current trends, mood, upkeep, budget, time, and how long you’d like the manicure to last. Therefore, picking out the right type of manicure is more than just choosing the look that you like best. But what are your choices? To help you find the best style of manicure, here are the different types of manicures that you need to know about.
1. Natural Nail Manicure
This type of manicure is perfect for those who want to wear their own nails. It is also called the classic manicure. It includes cutting and filing the nails to your desired length and shape, cuticle grooming, regular nail polish, and sometimes a hand massage. Actually, any type of manicure you choose is based on this regimen.
A natural nail manicure may take about an hour to finish. It can last up to seven days, depending on the individual, the technique, and the products used. It can also be removed easily by using non-acetone nail polish remover. This manicure type is very easy to maintain, and it enables you to change your color quickly. However, it may take time to dry and may not last long if you often wet your hands.
2. French Manicure
This type of manicure traditionally features a natural-colored nail with a white tip. It can be achieved by using regular nail polish, acrylic, or gel nail polish. It can make the nails look clean and classic. But there are also fun twists that can be added to this manicure type. One example is by using different colors of the tip.
Getting a French manicure may take 10 to 30 minutes longer compared to a basic manicure. If nail polish is used, it can last up to a week. Using gel or acrylic, on the other hand, can make the manicure last for up to three weeks. It provides your hands a glamorous and timeless look.
3. American Manicure
There is an American type of manicure, which is quite similar to a French manicure. The nail tips are lighter but in a softer and more natural color. It is a classic way to wear a French manicure, and it can make the nails look clean and healthy.
If you opt for a natural manicure, it may take about 45 to 60 minutes to finish. If you want gel or acrylic, it will take up to three hours. This type of manicure can last up to seven days in polish and up to three weeks in gel or acrylic. It is also easier to DIY. However, it is too natural-looking for some.
4. Acrylic Manicure
This type of manicure is perfect for those who are trying to get those striking coffin-shaped and stiletto-shaped nails. It is a liquid plus powder nail enhancement that is very strong. There is also no UV light needed for curing as they harden on their own.
Acrylic manicures can take about two hours to finish, and they can last up to three weeks. To remove acrylic nails, you can soak them in acetone nail polish remover for five minutes. One of the best things about acrylic manicures is that they are hard and durable. However, they sometimes have a strong odor during application, which is not appealing for some.
5. Gel Manicure
If you want a durable manicure, you can also consider getting a gel manicure. It can make the nails look very natural, and it is lightweight and flexible. Compared to an acrylic manicure, a hard gel manicure is more flexible. It is perfect for those who are prone to nail lifting because this type of manicure flexes with the nail shape effectively.
Getting a gel manicure may take up to two hours, and it can last around three weeks. To remove it, use a cotton ball soaked in acetone nail polish and apply it to your fingernails. After that, wrap each nail with foil for about 15 minutes to remove the polish. But for more effective removal, it is better that a professional does it.
6. Press-On Nails
Press-on nails are perfect for those you want to DIY with minimal effort. You can do them at home, and they are easier to use. You can also order custom nails that are made according to your nails and style. Applying press-on nails may take about 30 minutes to an hour, and it can last up to two weeks. However, if you are not careful or don’t follow the instructions, you can potentially damage the top layer of your nails.
7. Dip Powder Manicure
This type of manicure is a combination of powder and glue that bonds the nails for a long-lasting manicure. It takes about two hours to apply, and it can last up to four weeks. It is perfect if you are looking for a long-lasting and durable manicure.
However, for this treatment, it is very important to look for a reputable salon. Make sure that the nail technician allocates a portion of the dip powder from the pot for your manicure. It’s because dipping your nails into the main pot is unhygienic and might spread germs.
8. Plexigel Manicure
This type of manicure is fairly new, and it has two different products, such as a nail shaper and a builder, that are tailored to your nail needs. It features a tough coating that will protect your nails naturally. It is also more lightweight compared to other nail enhancements. It can also rival a regular gel manicure when it comes to how long it can last.
For a new set of plexigel manicures, it may take about two hours to finish, and it can last up to three weeks. It easily adds shape and length to the natural nails, allowing you to rebalance your nails every three weeks without removal. However, keep in mind that only a CND-trained professional can apply and remove this type of manicure.
9. Shellac Manicure
This type of manicure is great if you are looking for an upgrade. It is essentially a gel manicure, but Shellac is the brand of the gel polish used, which is by Creative Nail Design or CND. It takes about two hours to finish the application and can also last for three weeks. Compared to its competitors, it can be removed two times faster, but it should be done by a professional.
These are some of the different types of manicures that you should know about. If you are tired of the same kind of manicure that you are regularly getting, you might want to try one of the types on this list. We hope this helped you learn more about the types of manicures. If you are looking for more information about nails and nail polish, you can read our article about the Interesting Facts About Nails and Nail Polish.