# The Ultimate Guide To Nail Cosmetics

From gem-embellished nails to those brandishing specks of gold leaf, to gel manicures and dipped tips, nail cosmetics have come on leaps and bounds since the days of the humble nail polish. You can now choose from almost every hue imaginable, various finishes, and gels that promise more staying power than ever before.

With so many styles, shapes, and products available, there is a nail hue, finish, and design to suit all, irrespective of the occasion. To help you navigate the world of nail cosmetics, we’ve created this handy guide. Read on to discover more.

# 1. Gel Manicures

The perfect polish does exist! It comes in the shape of a gel manicure. For those who swear by these, you’ve likely already heard of builder gel or BIAB (builder gel in a bottle). This nifty product is a favorite of those who seldom have time to brush their hair, let alone change the color of their nail polish. Boasting a less malleable, stronger finish than traditional gel polish, this can be used as an overlay treatment. It ensures your nails last right up until your next scheduled appointment. Another benefit of builder gel? It can lengthen your nail shape - an asset if you’ve broken a few nails yet are still long enough for that enviable length.

Like standard gel polish, this gel is cured with an LED light. Similarly, if you wish to change up your color or give your nails a break, you can soak it off with acetone.

# 2. Traditional Gel Nail Polish

This prevalent polish can be applied at home and in the salon. Once you’ve picked a hue, a base coat is applied to your nails, followed by the gel polish in your chosen hue, and then a top coat. Each stage must be cured under an LED light for 30 to 60 seconds. This ensures it hardens and dries instantly, meaning you can carry on with your day without worrying about smudging or chipping your polish. The result? A shiny manicure that will last for at least three weeks at a time without peeling or chipping.

This polish can be applied to natural nails, extensions, acrylics, and press-on nails.

The best part? It’s available in numerous hues and finishes, from matte to holographic, glitter, and more.

# 3. Polygel

This polish is a hybrid between gel and acrylics. Boasting a gel-like consistency, it is applied to the top of your nail extensions or natural nails using a brush. This clever product can shape, sculpt, fill in, and lengthen nails. Just like traditional gel possibly, it is cured with a UV or LED light.

One of the benefits of this nail cosmetic is its immense durability. Yet despite its staying power, it still looks and feels natural. It is also odor-free, contains fewer chemicals, and lasts an impressive three weeks.

# 4. Acrylic

Unlike gel or traditional nail polish, acrylic doesn’t come in a bottle. It’s a powder that’s combined with a monomer. The result? A liquid that hardens. Acrylic can lengthen nail tips or strengthen natural nails. Similar to polygel, it is applied using a brush. Once the acrylic has hardened, it can be filed to a shape of your choice. Choose from square, almond, or stiletto. Acrylic nails last between two and three weeks. Instead of investing in a new set each time, you can have them filled once or twice, saving time and money.

# 5. Breathable Nail Polish

If you’re conscious of chemicals, opt for a breathable polish. As the name suggests, breathable nail polish enables water and oxygen to pass through your polish, instead of creating a barrier over your nails. Despite being less chemical-laden, breathable polish is less prone to chipping and can last up to ten days. How? Breathable polish allows moisture and oils to enter your nails, which ensures a long-wearing manicure and hydrated, healthy nails.

# 6. Dip Powder

This is another long-lasting nail polish to make the list. Boasting staying power shy of a month, providing you look after your manicure; this is a great option) for those who don’t have the time for regular salon visits yet still long for a beautiful manicure. After all, having well-maintained nails can boost your confidence and self-esteem, making you feel more put-together.

You can either book in at your local salon or, with the right tool, do it yourself at home. Firstly, a base coat is applied, followed by the powder. This process is repeated until an opaque layer of polish remains. A top tip? Always brush off the excess powder to ensure a smooth finish. To conclude your dip manicure and to create that enviable shine, a layer of clear powder and a sealant are applied. The benefit of a dip powder is that it dries in minutes without necessitating an LED light.

# 7. Traditional Nail Polish

We haven’t forgotten about the basics. Traditional nail polish is the kind you probably used in your younger years. Still a prevalent product in most people’s makeup bags, it requires patience and time. Instead of curing this polish under a lamp, you must wait for it to dry! Depending on the product you choose, you can still achieve an enviable hue and shine, but it does tend to chip quicker, especially if you don’t use a base and top coat.

It’s a great item to stock if you have time and prefer a more natural approach. It is also popular with those who like to switch colors regularly or need to touch up an existing manicure between salon appointments.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re getting married, attending an event, or like your nails to look in tip-top condition at all times, there is a nail hue, style, and cosmetic to suit your every need. You can apply nail cosmetics in the comfort of your home or book in with your local salon. Whatever the occasion, you’ll never be short of choice.

For best results, consider your lifestyle, budget, and the event. This will help you pick the perfect polish! If you're planning on investing in a manicure that promises staying power, choose a style and color that will complement every occasion. If you're embarking on a vacation or you have a big, glitzy event to attend, push the boat out!