I tried Apres Gel-X Nail Extensions – here are my thoughts!
I’ve always been a lover of acrylic nails. I got my first set in the 7th grade and was immediately obsessed. I continued to get them for special occasions (and sometimes just for fun) throughout high school and college. However, I quit getting them due to upkeep not fitting into my schedule and health concerns that come with using acrylic nails. Check out articles regarding the health concerns here and here.
For the past three years, I simply painted my own nails. During that time, I considered buying press-on nails from various brands I saw on Instagram ads. I chose not to because I was concerned about damaging my nails. So…I continued painting them. It became somewhat annoying because the polish would chip within two days and not to mention, I have a bad habit of picking the polish off once they begin to chip. Not ideal.
A month ago, I finally decided to make an appointment at this adorable nail salon. When choosing my services from their online booking system, I noticed the Apres Gel-X option. I had limited knowledge about them but I thought I’d give them a try.
After having my first set for a month, I can honestly say I will NEVER get acrylics again. As I’ve learned more and more about cleaner and safer beauty care & products, I feel totally comfortable using these gel nail extensions. I won’t be keeping them on all the time, as there is some upkeep and become expensive to maintain overtime. I’ve also learned it is best to allow your natural nails time to breathe in between sets to maintain natural nail health. But every now and again, I will definitely be treating myself!
Some Education
What is Apres Gel-X?
Apres Gel-X is a soft gel nail extension system (think salon quality press-ons) which are attached to the entire natural nail bed using Extend Gel Polish, a non-toxic, vegan nail base adhesive, and using a blue UV light to cure. To remove, the nails are soaked in acetone and require little to no drilling to complete removal. To make it even better, they last up to 4 weeks minimizing your time in the nail salon.
Are Apres Gel-X Nail Extensions better than Acrylics?
In my opinion, YES!!! As mentioned, Apres Gel-X is placed on the entire nail bed, making them far less likely to break and tear your natural nail. Gel is more flexible as well, allowing your nail to move normally. Acrylics are placed on the tip of the nail increasing risk of breaking or damaging your natural nail. Acrylics are harder and don’t allow the nail to move naturally, meaning they are more likely to break and rip your natural nail. Apres Gel-X can be removed by soaking in acetone, just like gel nail polish. They require little to no drilling, preserving integrity of your natural nail. Acrylics require hard drilling which thins the nail bed drastically leaving you with thin, brittle nails. In addition, Apres Gel-X does not have the potential health risks associated with acrylics. Additionally, gel doesn’t have the strong, chemical smell acrylics have. Apres Gel-X for the win!!!
Check out the links below for more info:
Share your thoughts + favorite manicure tips, whether at home or in salon, below!
Main + Meg 