Acrylic Nail Extensions & Gel Nail Extensions

Acrylic nail extensions are called liquid and powder are prepared by mixing a liquid acrylic monomer with a solid acrylic powder to form an uncured gel-like semi-solid which is then sculptured by brush onto the natural nail, or over a nail sculpting form 

The liquid acrylic monomer is usually a mixture of methacrylate monomers (most commonly ethyl methacrylate (EMA)) and an ingredient to start the hardening process called a catalyst or synergist, usually of the amine class (dimethyl para toluidine or similar).  

The solid acrylic powder is usually made from methacrylate polymers (most commonly polyacrylates such as polymethylmethacrylate or polyethylmethacrylate), pigments and an ingredient to start the hardening (polymerisation) process called an initiator (usually benzoyl peroxide (BPO)).  

The uncured gel-like semi-solid is sculpted into the nail shape and then it hardens to its cured, or solid, form over approximately the next five minutes.  

It can take several hours for the system to fully cure.  
 
Keeping monomer vapours down 

Always use a small amount of liquid at a time and get a lid for your monomer dish. 

To wipe your brush place a slightly damp nail wipe to the side of your work space – the dampness will draw any excess liquid into the pad to help reduce odour. (make sure pad is not wet) 

Place waste in a metal bin. 

Invest in dust extraction system 

Gel nail extensions 

Gel Nails UV Gel nails require curing or hardening by ultraviolet (UV) energy from a UV or UV LED lamp. 

The gel, usually a mixture of short urethane polymers and methacrylate monomers (such as 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) or hydroxypropyl methacrylate) and a photoiniƟ ator to begin the polymerisation process, is sculptured on the natural nail to form the final shape and then cured under a lamp which emits UV energy.