Tesi Johnson, Gleaner Writer
Variations of French manicured nails done by Nirvana. - IAN ALLEN/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
NAIL EXTENSIONS OR TIPS, as they are commonly known, when tastefully and attractively done enhance the beauty of your hands and give them a lovely profile. After your professional nail technician has given you a proper manicure, complete with tips and acrylic or a silk-wrap, the onus now lies with you to continue nail care at home until your next appointment.
Some persons hold the misconception that once the tips are on, the nails are foolproof because they are "stronger" than your natural nail. Though the strength is enhanced such that breakage is minimal, you must now take greater care to protect your natural nails from damage. The beauty of nails is a trade-off, as the extensions may potentially damage your natural nails, if they are not properly cared for.
* -Keep your nails clean and dry so that bacteria and other infectious organisms do not collect under them.
* -Keep your hands and cuticles soft by daily use of hand lotion and/or cuticle oil.
* -Do not bite, eat or intentionally tear your cuticles.
* -Keep your hands covered while performing household chores, particularly when they might be exposed to water, or if you are using any chemicals or doing gardening.
* -Treat your nails like jewels, not tools! Avoid reaching for anything using your fingertips or else your nails will suffer. Instead use the flat part of your fingers, and your palms for activities involving your hands.
* -Long nails are lovely, but if your activity level and lifestyle will not allow them to remain intact, it's best to go short.
* -Do not attempt to do your technician's job for her. If a nail becomes damaged, wait until your next appointment to have it tended to. As such:
* -Do not personally rip off acrylic if a little lifting is visible. If it is minimal, you may buff away the area of lift. Do not attempt to glue the area of lift. Should any area of lift be too large to remove by filing, or if discoloration is visible, promptly make an appointment with your technician.
* -If you wish to remove your artificial nails do not bite them off. Visit your technician who will have them removed for you, or she will advise you on the product to purchase - usually acetone - such that you may remove it yourself with minimal damage to your natural nails.
* -Allergies to acrylic products are uncommon, but if they do occur do not ignore it. If you develop an abnormal condition on, below or around the nails, call your technician immediately.
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Ultimately, your professional nail technician is best suited to outline an appropriate care regime that you should follow to preserve the beauty of your tips, and your natural nails underneath. An appropriate time to see your technician is every two weeks, and consult with her in between visits for advice and to clear up any uncertainties about proper care.
