Okay, you've made your decision. You're dying to get your nails done. You are extremely looking forward to your first set of nails. You are inspired by your friends, social media, celebrities, music videos and the latest nail trends.
Look at your nails and imagine your own hands with beautiful nails. You can't wait to have them match your clothes and make up.
Getting your nails done is incredibly popular right now, and customer demand is expanding to younger audiences. But what exactly are the options and what should you consider when you first get a set of artificial nails done? Read all about it in this article.
What a set of nails do to your hand
@theactorsvow I am ✨obsessed✨ with these @alithenailtech #youractingmom #SyncYourMiO #naildesigns #nailtransition ♬ original sound - iwannatrypercs💊
@bigfatjenna in love 🥺 nail art by me 💗 nails by @chloedawsonnails recreation of nailsbydaovo on insta 🤍✨ #nails #nailart #nailtransformation #nailtransition #nailsnailsnails #nailartdesign #chromenails #acrylics #acrylicnails #coffinnails #coffinnailshape #silvernails #nailinspo #nailinspiration #nailartlove ♬ original sound - ._.Trash._.
Video: First time doing nails with your BFF
In this video, two girlfriends, Brighton and Fiona, after admiring beautiful nail designs on social media, go to get their nails done at a professional salon. For Brighton, this is a special experience, as it is her very first set of artificial nails. Full of anticipation, they watch as their nails are transformed and they can't wait for the end result!
After 3 days
Three days later, they share their thoughts on their new long artificial nails. They both feel more groomed and confident with their beautiful nails. They do notice that simple tasks like pressing buttons are a little more difficult and that it can hurt if they accidentally bump into something. But after a while they get used to it and can't imagine life without nails.
Table of Contents
Age
Age is an important factor in deciding what you can and cannot do with your nails. However, there are several options available in my salon for ages 13 and up. More on this in a moment. If you are younger than 16 years old, you always need permission from your parents or a guardian to have your nails done. Always inform yourself what rules nail salons have.
Younger than 16
If you are younger than 16, your hands and nails are still in the process of growing. This means that they are not yet fully grown. Therefore, I strongly advise against wearing artificial nails for long periods of time at a young age. This is because it can lead to crooked growth of the natural nails.
Press-ons
If you still like to wear nails for a special occasion, such as a birthday party, exam party, wedding or any other event, it is better to choose custom-made nails, called custom press-ons. You can apply and remove these yourself. Moreover, press-ons can be reused multiple times.
Full Cover Gel Tips
Want to try nails for the first time and want to wear them longer than just a day or a weekend? Then I recommend opting for a set of full-cover gel tips. These can last up to 3-4 weeks and then need to be professionally removed. That way, the natural nails are given time and space to grow again.
Do´s and Don´ts
Here are some do´s and don´ts for your first set of artificial nails so you can get started with your new set of nails without any problems.
Do: Go to a professional, reliable salon with good reviews
To avoid problems, it is important to go to a professional and reliable nail salon. While it may be tempting to have your nails done by a friend or acquaintance who happens to do nails, it takes more expertise than you think. An inexperienced nail technician can lead to nail problems such as damage or infection.
Checklist
- Always check if a salon has positive customer reviews , for example, on platforms such as Google Maps.
- If it's too cheap to be true then it usually is
- Always check for plenty of photos or videos about the previous sets that a salon has set
- Is the salon active on social media channels such as Instagram or Facebook, read others' comments
Don't: Don't choose cheap nail salons or friends/acquaintances
Never let price be the only motivation for your first set of nails. It is better to save a little longer to save yourself a lot of misery (and money). Cheap salons are often run by novice nail technicians who are still in the process of learning the trade. This can result in loose artificial nails or lifting, increasing the risk of infections such as pseudomonas .
Do: Get inspired for a cool nail design on social media
To make it easier on your nail technician(s) and ensure you get exactly what you want, it is indeed a good idea to save samples on your phone.
Here are some important aspects to consider when picking out your new set of nails:
- Length: Think about what length you would like for your nails. Would you prefer to wear them short, medium or long? It is helpful to have a sample photo of the desired length so your nail technician(s) have an idea of your preference.
- Shape: Consider what nail shape you want. Popular options include ballerina/coffin, almond-shaped or stiletto.
- Design: Think about what kind of nail art you like. Do you like simple, minimalist designs or rather lavish and detailed patterns? Collect inspiration on your phone by saving images of nail art that appeal to you.
By showing these examples to your nail stylist(e), you will give them a clear idea of your preferences and help them achieve your desired nail style. Remember to be open to suggestions and advice from the nail stylist(e), as they have expertise in creating beautiful designs and also have quite a bit of creativity.
Don´t: Don't go for an extremely long set right away
You've probably seen Cardi B, Doja Cat or Ice Spice in music videos, where they wear super long nails. It looks great, of course! Long nails are absolutely beautiful, but they are not always practical.
First, nails that are too long are awkward and can be quite painful! The longer your nails are, the more likely you are to accidentally bump into something and experience pain. In addition, the chances of lifting increase when you have nails that are too long.
Video: I wore super long artificial nails for 1 week
In the video, she wears long nails that she made herself and quickly cause problems such as breaking when hit with a small bump. However, this perfectly illustrates the challenges of having extremely long nails. Throughout the video, she shows how she tries to do various daily activities with her long nails. It is a fun and informative video to watch!
If you still like long nails, read my survival guide to long nails. In it you will find tips and tricks for dealing with long nails. For example, how do you put in lenses with long nails? Opening cans? Big message on the toilet?
Here is a brief overview of some tips for wearing long nails
Tips for dealing with long nails
For your first set don't go too long! Start with a shorter length, if this goes well and you want to go longer afterwards let your nail technician know. This way with each new set we work towards a longer length giving your brain time to adjust to your new nails.
Golden Tip
- Be careful: Always keep in mind that you have longer nails and be extra careful during daily activities. Try to avoid bumps and hard knocks to avoid discomfort and pain.
- Use tools: Invest in tools such as a nail brush with a long handle to make cleaning easier. This will prevent your nails from coming into contact with harsh chemicals or dirt.
- Practice good hygiene: Long nails can easily hold dirt and bacteria, so be sure to thoroughly clean your hands and nails regularly. Use a soft brush to remove any dirt under your nails. ( See next chapter )
- Adjust your daily activities: Keep in mind that some daily activities may be more difficult with long nails. Opening cans, typing on a keyboard or tying buttons may require some adjustment. Do you have an occupation that requires your hands a lot, such as working in the hospitality industry? Then don't take long nails.
- Wear protective gloves: When doing household chores or activities where your nails may be exposed to water, chemicals or rough surfaces, wear protective gloves to protect your nails.
With this survival guide, you can enjoy your long nails while keeping in mind practicalities and possible discomforts. However, always remember that comfort and health come first, so make sure your nails are a length that suits your lifestyle.
Do: Clean your artificial nails thoroughly every day + cuticle oil - Aftercare
So you went to a good salon and you are now wearing a beautiful set of new artificial nails. Artificial nails can become a breeding ground for dirt and bacteria if you do not thoroughly clean them daily. This can lead to infections, but it also looks very unkempt and dirty. You don't want to know what I've found on clients under their nail extensions.
Care routine for artificial nails
- Wash your hands: Turn on the faucet and put a few drops of hand soap (skin friendly) on your hands, spread it well on both hands and make sure that the soap lathers well enough.
- Clean the nail beds: Take the soft nail brush and gently scrub under your artificial nails and along the cuticle area. Make light circular movements to remove any dirt or residue. Be careful not to damage the artificial nails or your natural nails.
- Push back cuticles (optional): After cleaning, use a bok paw to gently push back your cuticles. This helps create a clean and groomed look.
- Rinse and dry: After you finish cleaning, rinse your hands under warm water to remove any soap residue. Pat your hands and nails dry with a clean towel.
- Applycuticle oil : Apply cuticle oil daily, this will ensure that your cuticles feel soft and cared for. But also that the top coat of your artificial nails will shine again.
Don´t: Bite or pick at your artificial nails
Do not bite, pick or pull at your artificial nails. Damaging the artificial nails can lead to bigger problems. Do you suffer from a raised edge (lifting) or other questions about your artificial nails? If so, don't hesitate to contact your nail technician for more information and possibly book a repair.
Conclusion
Whether you choose short, medium or long nails, simple or lavish nail art, the important thing is that you feel comfortable and have fun with your new nails. Remember, nails are a form of self-expression and a way to express your style and creativity.
At K-reative Nails, I am ready to welcome you to my salon and guide you through your very first set of (artificial) nails. I understand the excitement and questions associated with putting on your first set of nails, and I am ready to help and advise you based on your needs and preferences. Don't hesitate to send a message to ask a question.
Step into the world of beautiful nails, have fun with your new nail adventure and let your inner Nail Diva shine!
