As a lover of manicures, you already know that nothing beats having attractive nails that communicate class. In the world of nail extensions, fiberglass nails are a less common option for enhancing the length and appearance of fingernails.
Fiberglass is a term used to describe the materials used for these categories of nails. It comes in a thin cloth-like material with tiny strands. The extension is a good choice for you if you are looking for something classy and attractive to dress your fingernails.
One of the advantages of this kind of nail is that it is less likely to cause any damage to your natural nails, compared to other nail extensions.
Read ahead to find out what fiberglass nails are, the pros and cons, and how to fix and remove the nail extensions at home.
What Are Fiberglass Nails?
These types of nails, also known as wrap nails, use thin materials made from fiber. Fiberglass nail is applied to the nails for extra length and enhancement.
While you can apply them to your natural nails, they can also be embedded on acrylic nails if you want.
The attachment of the fiberglass material to your natural nails is done with resin glue. After attaching the fibers to your nails, you will use resin glue to hold the strands together afterward.
Once the glue is dry, the strands will be in place and you can file it into shape.
Pros and Cons of Fiberglass Nails
Every type of nail extension has its benefits and setbacks. Before getting into the salon for a fiberglass nails appointment, you need to understand the advantages and disadvantages. Below are some of the pros and cons to help you consider your options.
Pros:
- It has a natural, simple appearance
- Less damaging compared to acrylics and gel nails
- Can be removed easily
- Has no odor
- Easy and quick touch-ups for broken bits
- Doesn’t irritate the nails and cuticles
- Dries up quickly
- Very gentle on natural nails
- Can be fixed at home
Cons:
- The fiber strands can start coming out if your fingers get in the water too frequently
- Not as durable as other nail extensions like acrylic and gel nails
- Even though you can fix it at home, the home application is not easy
- Not recommended for weak nails
- More expensive than other available manicure options
- The shape of your actual nails determine the outcome of your manicure shape
SEE: What Is Nail Dipping? Learn This Before You Get Dip Powder Nails
Are Fiberglass Nails Safe?
All nail extensions and enhancements pose a risk to your natural nails and cuticles. These nails can damage and weaken your nails. However, fiberglass nails are considered safe when done correctly.
Unlike other nail enhancements, fiberglass nails do only very little aggravation to the nail place since the process only uses fabric and resin.
Exposing your nails to water too often can cause your manicure to chip. That can also cause your nails to grow mold, which is unsafe for your health. Therefore, ensure that you prevent much water from getting into your nails while being cautious of how often you dip your fingers in the water.
The safety also depends on how the manicure is done. As this nail enhancement method is uncommon, ensure that you find an experienced nail technician to do it for you. You can also purchase fiberglass nails online if you can’t get a professional to do it for you.
Are Fiberglass Nails Strong?
These types of nails are thin, flexible, and can be applied on natural nails and tips, which is why they look so natural and simple; they are almost invisible. That is to say that fiberglass nails are not the strong kind.
Although fiberglass nails are not strong as acrylic or gel nails, they tend to be stronger than a lot of people’s nails. This is another reason why you need to have strong nail beds before thinking of applying fiberglass nails.
How Long Do Fiberglass Nails Last?
Fiberglass nails don’t last long as it is not as durable as their counterpart—acrylic and gel nails. It only lasts for about a week or two as it is just resin and fabric strands.
Other nail enhancements like acrylic nails last up to 4 weeks or more, but fiberglass nails are delicate and can’t last for long.
If you bite your nails often, put your hands in water frequently or lift heavy items, this type of nail shouldn’t be your go-to. Not only is it hard to maintain, but it is also quite expensive, and getting water on it can chip and lift the manicure. Water causes fiberglass nails to be brittle.
SEE: Get Fake Nails Off With These 6 Effective Nail Removal Techniques
How to Apply Fiberglass Nails
If going to a salon for the application of fiberglass nails is too expensive or you can’t find a manicurist around you, you can try to apply it yourself in the comfort of your home. Below is a step by step guide on how to apply fiberglass nails:
Step 1: Wash your hands
Before you start the application process, ensure that you wash your hands with soap and water to remove residues of dirt and oil from your skin.
Step 2: Prepare your nail
File your nails so that the fiberglass material will easily stick to your natural nails. In addition, ensure that you buff and slightly push back your nail cuticles, as that will help you achieve natural-looking nails.
Step 3: Disinfect your nails
Use an antiseptic or alcohol pad to disinfect your nails while removing oil and shine from them as well.
Step 4: Apply the fiberglass to the nail
While ensuring a space of 1mm margin from your cuticle, place your fiberglass on your nail to fit it.
Step 5: Apply resin to the surface
Apply a little bit of resin on the surface of your nails. Ensure that the layer is thin and wait a minute for the fiberglass to harden against your nails.
Step 6: Apply resin on the fiberglass
Apply two layers of thin resin on the surface of your fiber nails. Be sure to apply the activator of your resin bond to make the nails harden quickly.
Step 7: File and shape
Using an emery board, file and smooth the edges of the nails. You can also use the tool to give your nails shape.
Step 8: Apply a gel top coat (optional)
After you have gotten your nails in shape, you can apply a gel coat on top of your nails to give it. Even though it is not necessary, it will help to improve the appearance of your nails.
Useful application tips:
- If you are using mesh fiberglass instead of strands, use stork scissors to stop it from fraying
- Avoid touching the fiberglass as you apply it to the nails
- After applying the full mesh, layer a tiny coat of resin to finish the process as that will prevent the nails from lifting
How to Remove Fiberglass Nails
You can go to a salon to have your fiberglass removed. However, you can save yourself some money by removing it yourself at home. The process is quite easy and can be done in the comfort of your home.
For the removal of your fiber nails, all you need is 100% pure acetone liquid cotton wool, hot and cuticle oil. There is no need to file or buff your nails.
How to do it:
- Pour the hot water into one bowl
- Place another bowl on top of it
- Pour enough acetone into the empty bowl
- The steam from the hot water will warm up the acetone and make it dissolve the nails faster
- Soak your nails in the acetone and wait until the fiberglass removes
- Clean your fingernails and apply cuticle oil to replenish your nail and cuticles
SEE: Best Gel Nail Polish
Frequently Asked Questions
Are fiberglass nails expensive?
Yes, they are. These nail extensions are the most expensive manicure option available for you if you want some nail enhancements.
They are the most expensive because the application takes time for all ten fingers and the layers of mesh materials used are also very expensive.
How much do fiberglass nail manicures cost?
From $50 to $100. The price varies depending on the salon you go to. However, be informed that you will spend more on fiberglass nail extensions than on acrylic or gel.
The design, length, and the type of mesh used are other determinants of the pricing of fiberglass nails.
Conclusion
If you are looking to enhance the appearance of your nails, you can consider getting fiberglass applied to your nails. However, only consider this if your job or lifestyle does not involve exposing your fingers to water too often.
It is very important to get the service of an experienced manicurist for this, but you can also apply the fiberglass yourself at the comfort of your home. Ensure that you read through the pros and cons to consider your options before booking an appointment at the salon.
Thanks for reading.
Visit Africana Fashion for more beauty articles to enlighten you on several nail types and application methods.
