Did You Know...?

Did you know- the "True Cuticle' lies underneath what is commonly (and incorrectly) known as the cuticle?

Cuticle is actually a waxy substance underneath the Eponychium, the flap of skin commonly referred to as cuticle, which is actually live tissue which serves as a protective barrier between your fingers and the dirty outside world we're always touching. 

Did you know- There are 2 types of Monomers (Purple Liquid) we as Nail Artist can chose from? One is MMA (Methyl Methacrylate) which was banned by the FDA in the 1970's but unfortunately still sold and accessible. It is significantly cheaper than EMA and has a long history of causing allergic reactions and severe damage to clients hands. MMA bonds quickly and adheres like no other making it virtually impossible to be removed safely by soaking off in pure Acetone. Acetone cannot disintegrate the bond created with MMA. 

EMA (Ethyl Methacrylate) is the safer option. It can be removed and broken down by Pure Acetone and is not known to cause harmful effects on client hands. The smell of EMA is also less potent and harmful. 

Did you know- Common causes of Acrylic lifting are due to improper prep work such as not fully removing True Cuticle (the waxy substance) oils and debris from Nail Plate. Poor Application, Poor liquid to powder ratio, not sealing the cuticle and Clients picking at their acrylics. These are some of the most common causes. 
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Did you know- The Apex is built for your protection? The Apex is the Highest and thickest part of your Acrylic enhancement, usually somewhere around the middle portion of the Nail where the tip is glued to the Nail Plate. The Apex is specifically placed for protection from injury due to hitting or bending of the Nail. It should be thick enough and positioned right at the Stress Area to absorb impact and protect the natural nail from possible damage.

Depending on many factors, like the severity of the injury and the adequacy of the Apex- this  may not always be the case. Always ensure your Apex is properly built and as an Acrylic Nail wearer- be gentle with your enhancements. They are Strong- but not indestructible. 

Did You Know- Temperature plays a huge role in the behavior of Acrylic? 

Cold Weather SLOWS the chemical bond between the Powder and the Monomer (Purple Liquid). Meaning, it takes longer for acrylic to mold and harden.

Warmer Temperatures SPEED up this chemical bond and quickly bonds the powder and liquid making the bead of Acrylic harden at a much faster rate, sometimes making it quite difficult to Apply acrylic. 

The Perfect Temperature  for these products is between 73-75 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Did You Know- If you suddenly feel your fingertip becoming hot after having Acrylic applied, it is likely because the Bead of Acrylic used was too wet and the Tech applied the bead too soon causing the chemical bonding reaction to take place slowly on your nail bed.

If this occurs, you can spray the finger with alcohol to cool it down and stop the heat from generating.  

Did You Know- Your Acrylic Enhancements are Plastic? Yes, The Monomer (liquid) and polymer (Powder) are combined and quickly become a hardening inflexible plastic which is then quickly sculpted to the length and shape desired. Because these are strong binding chemicals and a heat producing reaction is taking place- you should ensure only licensed professionals handle your Acrylic Nail Enhancements.  

Did you know- The Angle in which you dip your brush into your powder determines the size of the bead you will pick up? At a 45 degree angle, you will pick up the biggest beads, and as you work your way up to a 90 degree angle, the beads become smaller in size. This is important to know because not every bead should be the same size, especially the cuticle bead- this one requires a steeper 90 degree or almost up right angle to pick up the desired size. When we consider the size difference between the pinky finger and the thumb, it becomes important to be able to adequately pick up the correct size for each bead placement.