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#REDIRECT Manicure#Fashion_nails |
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#REDIRECT [[Manicure#Fashion_nails]] |
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'''Artificial nails''', also known as '''fake nails''', '''fashion nails''', '''nail enhancements''', or '''nail extensions''', are coverings placed over [[fingernails]] as [[fashion accessories]]. Some artificial nails attempt to [[mimic]] the look of real fingernails as closely as possible, while other designs may deliberately stray in look from real fingernails. Artificial nails are made from a wide variety of materials. |
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==History== |
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In the late 20th century, artificial nails for women became widely popular. |
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==Types== |
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The artificial nails are not a replacement, but an extension for natural nails. There are two main approaches to creating artificial nails—''tips'' and ''forms''. Tips are made of lightweight plastic plates that are "nail" shaped. They are glued on the end of the natural nail and acrylic is then applied over the entire nail. Forms are fitted over the nail and then an artificial nail is molded out of acrylic and the form is removed and then properly shaped and buffed to a shine. There are several popular techniques that can be used to create longer better looking nail enhancements. One popular material commonly called "[[Polymethyl methacrylate|acrylics]]" is a mixture of a polymer powder and a liquid monomer (e.g.[[ethylmethacrylate]]). The mixture starts to harden in 30–40 seconds after application and continues to cure to final hardness typically for more than an hour. Powder and liquid acrylics can be removed in 20 minutes using a variety of solvents (usually [[acetone]] is used). Another material, commonly called "UV gel", (in correct chemical terms a [[polymer]] [[resin]]) hardens under [[ultraviolet light]]. Depending on brand these can show a broader variety of quality and properties (flexibility, strength, etc.) but may be more expensive. They generally cannot be removed by organic solvents, but only be removed by filing (or left to grow out with the natural nail). Another popular alternative to acrylic or gel preparations are Fiberglass or Silk wraps. They are done by cutting pieces of actual fiberglass or silk fabric to fit on the surface of the nail or tip and then it is sealed down with a resin or glue. These are a possible alternative for those who are allergic to chemicals used in the acrylic or gel process. Other materials can be used, as well as combinations of them. There are also temporary, cheaper flexible tips that can be quickly glued at home without help from a professional. Acrylic nail powders are available in a variety of colours and can use "special effects" such as contours, sparkles and the very popular [[French Manicure]] (pink and white appearance). |
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These fashion trends are not without risks, as residues of acrylic resins have been known to lead to redness, swelling, pain and even severe allergic reactions. The nail can [[Onychomadesis|separate from the nail bed]], and if the nail root becomes damaged, the replacement can be permanently deformed. As well, nail glue is poisonous if accidentally swallowed and a few nail polishes and removers contain toxic [[formaldehyde]] or [[acetone]].{{Fact|date=August 2008}} |
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An alternative to acrylic nails is to harden your natural nail by using a fluoride treatment. Fluoride claims to harden your nails just as it hardens your teeth. However, some fluoride nail treatments contain [[Ammonium]] [[Hexafluorophosphate]] rather than [[Stannous fluoride]], which is the type of fluoride normally used in toothpaste. |
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[[Category:Nail care]] |
Revision as of 05:29, 1 February 2009
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