Extensions and Overlays
The right acrylic for you.
Acrylic Extensions
Nail extensions are when a lightweight plastic tip is glued onto the natural nail plate in order to add length. Acrylic mixture is then applied on top of the plastic extension and is usually 'cured' in order to secure the extension and add strength and shine.
The term "acrylic nail" usually refers to liquid and powder mixes, which are combined in front of you into a soft bead dough, shaped onto your nail with a brush and then air dried.
Well Gel Nails only use safe, certified, purpose tested acrylic. We stock the brand CJP, one of the leaders in premium grade professional use acrylic.
What Is MMA and Non Standard Salons (NSS) ?
Methyl methacrylate, or MMA, originated in the dental industry for making crowns and bridges. It is also used as bone cement by orthopedic surgeons during joint replacement procedures, in some flooring products, resins, and Plexiglas. This chemical was not designed to come in contact with skin or nails.
In the late 1960s and 70's some nail technicians began using MMA for acrylic nail services because it was much less expensive than the safer alternative, ethyl methacrylate.
MMA is not recommended for use in acrylic nail products because it is much too hard and can tear the nail off the finger easily. It is also solvent resistant which makes it very difficult to remove. It takes a long time to remove MMA when soaking in acetone. Many technicians damage the nail plate when prepping for MMA (use of electric drill on the natural nail), since this product needs grooves in the nail in order to stick well. A technician should always protect and preserve the natural nail under any enhancement product.
Unfortunately in this country there are numerous salons open that don't adhere to industry standards, these are referred to as Non Standard Salons.
When booking in for acrylic nails ask to see their Insurance certificate, product labels, if they use products containing MMA, if they use an electric drill on the natural nail and if they use clean sterilised tools.
And remember It is not normal for your fingers to hurt after a professional services.