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Artificial Nails

Artificial nails are of five types :

1. Wraps. These do the least damage. Made of fiberglass, linen, or silk, they're applied with a fabric mesh that is held in place by an adhesive. A sealant is put on top to make sure they stay in place.
2. Acrylics. Powder & liquid are mixed together to form a plastic paste. The paste is applied to the nail, where it hardens.
3. Porcelain. These are similar to acrylics, except that the powder contains a finely ground glasslike material.
4. Gels. Layers of resin are applied to the nail & harden when exposed to light.
5. Tips. These plastic nail bits can cover the entire nail, but most often they're applied halfway up the nail through the tip. They're glued into place with nail glue. Acrylics, gels, or wraps are often added on top as an extra bolstering layer, then filed into shape.