Application of Overlays What is an overlay & what are its uses? An overlay is a product that provides strength & can be used in two ways: * Tip & Overlay Nail Extension A product is applied over the natural nail & nail tip, which then sets hard to form a tough outer coating to strengthen the nail extension.
* Natural Nail Overlays A product is applied directly onto the natural nail, which then sets hard to form a tough outer coating to strengthen the natural nail.
Products Used for Overlays
Acrylic This uses a liquid & powder system, when mixed together forms a product that is patted & brushed onto a natural nail, which then sets hard. It is considered to be the strongest system.
Gel Two types are available * UV/Light Cured Gel (most popular of the two) This is a pre-mixed product, which requires UV light to 'cure' it - makes the product set hard. It is not as strong as acrylic
* No - Light Cure Gel (Cool Set Gel) This too is a pre-mixed product, which does not require UV light to 'cure' it. Instead it uses an activator to make it set hard. Again this is not as strong as acrylic.
Fabric Overlays / Wraps The following fabrics require a resin to allow them to adhere to the natural nail / tip, & for the structure to set hard. These are supplied as a pre-cut, on a roll or swatch of cloth. * Fibreglass It is invisible when applied as it is loosely woven & is reasonably strong.
* Silk This is a natural material that is virtually invisible when applied properly, due to its natural absorbency, so an application of coloured varnish is not necessary, but it is weaker than fibreglass or linen.
* Linen Linen is strongest of the nail wrapping fabrics. It is not visible when applied as it is a closely woven & heavy material, so coloured varnish must be worn.
* Paper This was one of the first wraps to be used. It is stuck onto the nail plate with an overlapping edge tucked underneath the free edge & secured with clear varnishes. It was commonly used to repair broken nails & is known as the 'Juliette Wrap'. The paper is not very strong & can look bulky. It is visible on the nail surface therefore varnish must be worn to cover it. It is most often seen in retail shops, where it is sold to the public to patch split or broken nails.
Applying Overlays
The Structure on the Overlay
When applying the overlay there are some 3 zones to consider Zone 1 This is the area of the free edge; the overlay needs to be thin on the edge to give a natural appearance.
Zone 2 This is the area over the smile line, where maximum strength is needed, as this is the area that receives the most stress - 'stress area'. This area should have the highest point, which is called the 'apex'
Zone 3 This is near the base of the nail & needs to be thin so that it is more flexible & able to move with this is part of the natural nail.
If you wish to pay by Maestro please telephone your order between 9am - 5pm GMT
