Fiberglass Nails Guide
Believe it or not, there are quite a few different types of nail extensions. Most of us are familiar with the common application types, which is why we’ve decided to introduce you to some of the lesser-known options available. Fiberglass nails went a bit viral last year. But don’t worry if you haven’t heard of them! They’ve been around for quite some time, but thanks to the internet they’ve been gaining some newfound popularity. Have we perked your interest? Great! We’re giving you all the juicy details you need to know about fiberglass nails – keep reading.
1So what ARE fiberglass nails?
Don’t worry, they’re not made of the material used in building actual homes and walls. Instead, fiberglass nails are created when very thin (aka fiberglass) is applied on top of nails. The fiberglass is generally applied in extremely thin strands that have a cloth like appearance to them. Fiberglass nails can be applied to create a variety of different nail lengths and shapes.
2Fiberglass VS Silk Wrap Nails
Interestingly enough, fiberglass nails are often confused with silk-wrapped nails. They have a few similarities, but both have their own unique characteristics and attributes. Fiberglass and silk-wrapped nails are applied in a very similar manner. The main difference between the two is silk wrapped nails are generally used in shorter lengths that are very close to the natural nail length, while fiberglass nails add length to nails much more effectively. Another difference between these types of nail extensions is silk wrapped nails are known to be quite thin and natural-looking, while fiberglass nails are a bit stronger and thicker in appearance and structure.
3How to Apply Fiberglass Nails?
Now that you’ve gotten the rundown on what fiberglass nails are, you’re probably wondering how exactly very thin strands are applied to give you the look of a nail extension. Right? Allow us to explain. We mentioned the fiberglass material is thin and generally applied in strands, those strands are applied to the top of clean nails (make sure they’re CLEAN and bare before beginning application). Experts recommend applying to the base and working your way towards the tips of the nails. The fiberglass is applied on top of a glue, which is what holds the material in place. Once the fiberglass is applied to the entire nail, you can cut/shape the fiberglass into your desired length and shape, and then another layer of glue is applied to the top – this is what turns the cloth-like material into something that’s harder. After the glue has dried completely you can continue to shape the nails to your preferences. The final step to the process is applying dip powder or gel polish over the fiberglass. This is where you can choose the color/design you want for your nails.
As intimidating as it may sound, you can get an at-home kit to DIY fiberglass nails. We found this kit on Amazon and it comes with everything you’ll need.
4Sharp Edges
5Corally Chic
6Brown Holographic Fiberglass
Because you need to apply a color, at least, over the top of fiberglass nails we really like the idea of keeping it simple and painting ONE nail polish color on top. Especially if you’re DIYing the nail extension. Holographic nail polish will give you all the style you need to complete your manicure.
7Cherry Blossom Design
The fun part of fiberglass nails is the ease they allow you to achieve long nails. French ombre, using white polish on the tips, always seems to be a design that looks great – especially when you have longer nails. Completing the look with a little extra dose of style, with florals painted onto one nail.
8Fiberglass Chic
9Marbled in Fiberglass
10Metallic Finished
11Hologram Style
12Iridescent Glam
13French Tip Mattified
14Marvelous in Mauve
15Stars in the Sky
Matte gray polish + silver glitter = we’re in love! The colors create a unique monochromatic design, primarily thanks to the juxtaposition of the finishes of the polishes used. We’ll admit we think this color scheme would look great with just about any design, but the moon and stars definitely are a favorite.