Overlay nails are kind of what they sound like – they are a hard layer of nail product over your natural nails. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, they are also a great way to protect your nails.
Gel, acrylic, overlay – do these names have you spinning out whenever it is time to book a manicure? I feel you. There are more and more products and styles added to the nail menu everyday and this can get pretty confusing for customers. The good news is that as a nail tech it is my job to stay on top of all these trends!
In this post I am going to explain what a nail overlay is, what the different types are, and how to choose the right one for you. Let’s get cracking.
What are Overlay Nails?
Let’s get down to business – what exactly are overlay nails?
Well, overlay nails is a type of manicure where a durable nail product like gel, acrylic, or dip powder is applied to natural nails.
These days, you can also find silk overlays but they aren’t readily used by salons.
One of the main distinctions of overlay nails is that they don’t add length to your natural nails in any way. Instead, the nail product is simply applied over the surface of your natural nails.
Is Gel Polish and Gel Overlays the Same?
No, the reason that I refer to overlay nails as coming from a nail product is because it is quite different to traditional nail polish or gel polish.
Gel polish is made from soft gel that is similar to regular nail polish but is slightly thicker. Gel overlays, on the other hand, comes from hard gel.
As with regular gel nails, this hard gel has to be cured with UV light.
Not only do hard gel overlays have a thicker consistency, but they are also more durable, allowing them to last longer on natural nails.
Acrylic Nails vs. Acrylic Overlays
For the most part, acrylic nails and acrylic overlays are fairly similar. For instance, both the nail and the acrylic overlay is achieved by combining a monomer with acrylic powder to to create the product.
When it comes to acrylic nails, though, these typically work with nail extensions. This can include acrylic tips or a full nail form for longer nails. You can think of them as fake nails.
With the acrylic overlays, though, the acrylic solution is simply applied to the surface of the natural nails.
So:
Are overlays better than acrylic nails?
The acrylic nail overlay is a far better option to the acrylic tips. This is because the tips on nail extensions can damage already brittle nails as a result of the nail glue while the acrylic overlays help to protect them.
Of course, with acrylic overlays, the solution is painted over your own nails. Therefore, if you don’t already have long nails, this procedure isn’t going to do anything to add length.
How are Overlay Nails Applied?
Your nails have to first be prepped. This begins with trimming and shaping the nails. Your cuticles may also be pushed back and trimmed.
The nail surface also has to be carefully brushed. This prepares it for the application of the base coat. This ensures that the nail bed is protected and that the overlay layers that will be applied will set properly.
The overlay is then applied. With the gel, about two coats is necessary while with the acrylic, a single coat usually does the trick.
With gel overlays, the nails need to be cured under UV light. The overlays will then set in about 45 seconds.
The acrylics, on the other hand, are cured in about 10 to 15 minutes. So, it takes a little longer with this process.
After this, nail polish or colors will be added to the top layer, creating your desired look.
Is Overlay Good for Your Nails?
To a certain extent, overlay nails can be good for your natural nails. This is especially true if your natural nail grows poorly, resulting in brittle and thin nails. The nail overlay is a hard covering and, so, acts as a protective layer.
Therefore, if you find it difficult to grow out short nails, then these nail products may do the trick.
It can also protect the natural nail from other factors that can worsen the condition of your nails.
At the same time, the removal process for overlays can be rather tough. You have to soak your nails in acetone which contains harsh chemicals for an extended period of time. In doing so, you can ruin the natural nail plate, especially if yours are fairly weak to begin with.
What are the Benefits of Overlay Nails?
Well, as I have already described, one of the main benefits is that the nail overlay protects your real nails.
The other advantage is that the gel and acrylic overlay lasts a lot longer than traditional nail polish. Overlay nails even last longer than gel polish.
So, if you are tired of having to go to the salon every couple of weeks when using traditional or gel polish, then this is the answer for you.
Now:
How long does a overlay last?
Both the gel overlay as well as the acrylic overlay can last last about 2 to 3 weeks.
However, you may get a bit more use out of your acrylic overlay. This is because here, the overlay can be filled in once the natural nails start growing. Another layer of acrylic will be applied and then filed down to match the existing set.
While the overlay nails may last quite a while, keep in mind that the polish itself may need to be topped up twice a week to prevent chipping. This is true for acrylic and gel nails. Wearing rubber gloves may help to prolong them, though.
Keep in mind that there are other factors that can impact how long these nails can last. One thing is your natural nails. If they your natural nails grow quite fast, then the overlay will need to be replaced sooner rather than later.
At the same time, you should also consider your lifestyle. If you work with your hands or spend a lot of time in water, then your acrylic and gel nails aren’t going to last all that long.
Which is Better Acrylic or Gel Overlay?
I would argue that there is no real winner between gel or acrylic overlays. Rather, it is about what you are looking for.
Still, let me break down these acrylic and gel overlay products to help you make a decision.
As acrylic overlays are a bit stronger than the gel overlay, these do tend to last longer. There are also less prone to chipping. So, if you work with your hands, the acrylic option may be a better investment for you.
Of course, keep in mind that even if your acrylics last for weeks at a time, you will still need to make a trip to the nail salon in between. This is because these nails will need to be filled in as you natural nail will begin to show underneath.
Also, if there is even one loose or free edge, it needs to be removed or replaced or a bacterial infection can set in.
As acrylics are more durable, they are also heavier on your nails. Due to this, you will likely feel the acrylics on your nails. Gel overlays, on the other hand, are much lighter. If you aren’t used to overlays, it may take you a while to get used to the acrylic overlays.
It is a good idea to consider all of these factors before deciding if the acrylic or gel overlay is right for you.
Well, there you go – no need to be confused over nail overlays anymore. You now know what a nail overlay is and you know the different types like acrylic and gel. So, you are all set to make an appointment with your nail salon.