Toenail extensions are artificial extensions used to enhance the appearance of the toenails. There are two main types of toenail extensions: acrylic and gel overlays. Like acrylic fingernail extensions, acrylic tips can be used to strengthen and lengthen the nails. A special ultraviolet (UV) gel can also be applied to the toenails to create the look of smooth, long-lasting polish. Toenail extensions can be used by people who want to hide certain imperfections, need a chip-resistant pedicure, or want to create unique toenail art.
To create toenail extensions that increase the length of the toenails, a technician will usually apply acrylic tips to the nails. An acrylic gel will then be placed over the entire nail to adhere the tip to the nail bed. As with acrylic fingernail extensions, these toenail extensions will need to be filled in every few weeks to make up for new toenail growth. At-home acrylic toenail extension kits can also be purchased from some convenience stores and beauty supply stores.
Toenail extensions can also be created with UV gels. These extensions do not normally lengthen the toenails. Instead, they are used to make the toenails smoother, stronger and slightly thicker. One benefit of choosing gel overlays is that these extensions usually look very similar to regular nail polish. To cover new nail growth, gel overlays will also need to be filled in or reapplied every few weeks.
There are several reasons why people might decide to get extensions on their toenails. Many people choose to get these extensions in order to enhance the appearance of their natural toenails. If a person’s toenails are brittle, lumpy or abnormally shaped, toenail extensions can create a more attractive appearance. While extensions cannot be applied to infected toenails, they can be used to cover damage caused by injury or infection. People with very short toenails can also use these extensions to create longer, sleeker nails.
Another benefit of these extensions is that they last much longer than regular nail polish. Most toenail polishes only last a few days before they begin chipping away from the nail. When applied correctly, neither acrylic nor gel extensions will chip or crack easily. Most extensions last for several weeks or until they are intentionally removed. People who want a long-lasting pedicure might want to consider these extensions.
Toenail extensions can also be used by individuals who want to create intricate toenail art. Many times, three-dimensional toenail art is adhered to the toenails with UV gel. Extensions also give technicians a greater area on which to create their designs. While extensions are not necessary for creating nail art, they do give designs more staying power.