Fake nails, often acrylic nails, work by creating a durable artificial nail surface on top of the natural nail. This is achieved through a chemical process involving the mixing of a liquid monomer and a powder polymer.
The Process Explained:
The application of acrylic nails involves several steps:
- Preparation: The natural nail is filed and buffed to create a slightly rough surface for better adhesion. Cuticles are pushed back.
- Primer Application: A primer is applied to the natural nail to dehydrate it and further improve the bond between the natural nail and the acrylic.
- Acrylic Mixture: A liquid acrylic monomer is mixed with a solid acrylic polymer powder. This creates a pliable, uncured gel-like slurry.
- Sculpting: Using a brush, the acrylic mixture is sculpted onto the natural nail, either directly or over a plastic tip or form that extends beyond the natural nail. The form or tip provides extra length and shape.
- Hardening: The acrylic mixture then hardens and cures through a process called polymerization. This chemical reaction creates a strong, durable, and rigid artificial nail.
- Shaping and Finishing: Once hardened, the acrylic nail is filed, shaped, and buffed to achieve the desired look.
- Finishing Touches: Polish, gel, or other nail art designs are applied to complete the look.
Key Components:
- Monomer (Liquid): Typically ethyl methacrylate (EMA), the monomer initiates the polymerization process.
- Polymer (Powder): Usually polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), the polymer provides the structure and strength of the acrylic nail.
Why It Works:
The combination of the liquid monomer and powder polymer results in a chemical reaction that creates a strong, durable, and long-lasting artificial nail. The sculpting process allows for customization of length, shape, and thickness, offering a wide range of aesthetic options. The primer is essential as it ensures better adhesion, which reduces the chance of lifting and subsequent nail damage.
