Pretty nails, we all want them, but we also don’t want to spend hours in parlours and spend $$$ on them. But, thanks to modern day technology, you don’t have to go to parlours anymore. Before we jump into solutions, there are several types of nail extensions that are commonly offered at nail parlors:


•Acrylic Nail Extensions: These are the most popular type of nail extensions. They are made by mixing a liquid and a powder to form a paste, which is then applied to the nails and allowed to dry. Once dry, the nails are filed, shaped and painted.
•Gel Nail Extensions: These are similar to acrylic nails but are made using a gel instead of a liquid and a powder. They are cured under UV light and can be more flexible and natural-looking than acrylics.
• Dip Powder Nail Extensions: This type of nail extension involves dipping the nails in a powder that is then activated with a bonding agent. The process is repeated until the desired thickness is achieved, and then the nails are shaped and polished.
• Silk Nail Extensions: These are made using a silk wrap that is applied to the nail bed and then coated with resin. They are known for their durability and flexibility.
• Fiberglass Nail Extensions: These are made using a fiberglass wrap that is applied to the nails and then coated with resin. They are lightweight and can be easily shaped and filed.
WHY WOMEN HAVE PROBLEMS WITH UV LAMPS?
The most common nails women extensions women opt for are usually the gel nails or the acrylic nails. Acrylic nails are pretty, but it’s really hard to do those at home unless you have the skill and expertise. Gels are easier, but the common biggest complaint is the use of the UV lamp known to cause skin cancer. While UV gel nails are a popular and long-lasting option, they do come with some potential problems. Here are some common problems associated with UV gel nails:
• Skin irritation and allergic reactions: Some people may develop skin irritation or an allergic reaction to the chemicals used in the gel nail process.
•Nail damage: The UV lamp can cause damage to the nail bed if it is not used properly, leading to weakened and brittle nails.
• Fungal infections: If the nail technician doesn’t properly sanitize the tools used during the process, it can lead to a fungal infection.
• Peeling and lifting: If the nail isn’t prepped properly or the gel is applied too thickly, it can cause peeling and lifting of the nail.
• Difficulty in removing: The gel can be difficult to remove and may require a lot of filing, which can damage the nail.
SAY NO TO UV LAMPS!
If you don’t want to use a UV lamp, there are alternative options for achieving a gel-like manicure at home without the need for curing under a lamp. One option is using a gel nail polish that does not require a UV lamp and is formulated to dry quickly and harden with exposure to natural light. These types of polishes typically contain a blend of photoinitiators that are activated by UV light in sunlight, so they can cure and harden without a lamp.
Another option is using pre-made stick-on gel nail strips that do not require any UV curing. These strips are applied directly onto the natural nail and can be trimmed and shaped to fit the nail size and shape. They typically come in a variety of colors, designs, and finishes, and can last up to two weeks with proper application and care.
Here are some of the best brands to find the perfect at-home solutions you need.
Gel stick-on nails are a great alternative to traditional gel nails that require a UV lamp. Here are some of the best options in the market:
KISS GEL FANTASY NAILS
Photo Credit: KISS GEL FANTASY NAILS
Kiss Gel Fantasy Nails are a type of press-on gel nails that come with an adhesive backing, making them easy to apply at home. They are designed to look and feel like salon-quality gel nails, without the need for a UV lamp or professional application. The Kiss Gel Fantasy Nails come in a variety of designs and colors, ranging from classic French tips to trendy glitter and ombre styles. They can last up to a week or more with proper application and care.
OHORA NAILS
Photo Credit: OHORA NAILS
OHORA is a Korean brand that offers a range of semi-cured gel nail strips. Their nails are designed to be applied easily at home without the need for UV lamps or other tools. The brand offers a wide range of designs and colors to choose from, and their strips are made with high-quality ingredients that are safe for use on nails. OHORA nails are also designed to last up to two weeks without chipping or peeling. Some of their popular products include the OHORA Pro Gel Nail Strip and the OHORA Glass Gel Nail Strip.
MANI ME NAILS
Photo Credit: MANI ME
ManiMe is a company that offers custom-fit, stick-on gel nail polish strips that can be easily applied at home. The strips are made of real nail polish and are designed to provide a long-lasting, salon-quality manicure without the need for UV lamps or harsh chemicals. ManiMe uses a 3D scanning technology to create a custom fit for each nail shape and size, ensuring that the strips fit perfectly and provide a flawless finish. The strips are available in a wide range of colors and designs, and can be easily removed with nail polish remover. ManiMe also offers a subscription service, which allows customers to receive a regular supply of new nail designs.
BEETLES NAILS

Photo Credit: BEETLES
Beetles is a brand that offers a wide range of nail products, including semi-cured nail strips. They offer various designs and colors that can be easily applied at home without any UV lamp or special tools. Some popular Beetles semi-cured nail strip options include: a) Beetles Gel Nail Polish Strips: These strips come in a variety of colors and patterns and can last up to 14 days. They are easy to apply and remove, and don’t require any drying time. b) Beetles Nail Polish Wraps: These are also available in a range of designs and colors and can last for up to 14 days. They are made from a thin vinyl material that adheres to the nail and can be easily removed without damaging the natural nail.
STATIC NAILS

Photo Credit: STATIC NAILS
These reusable nails are made from a durable, high-quality gel and are designed to look and feel like real nails. They claim to provide a salon-quality manicure at home. They are made from a durable, high-quality material and come in a range of colors and styles. The nails are designed to be easy to apply and can be customized to fit any nail size or shape. Static Nails are also reusable and can be removed and reapplied multiple times. The brand also offers a range of nail care products, such as cuticle oil and nail polish remover, to help maintain healthy nails.
imPRESS PRESS ON MANICURE

Photo Credit: IMPRESS NAILS
These press-on nails come with a pre-applied adhesive and do not require a UV lamp. They also come in a variety of colors and styles. They are designed to give the look of a salon-quality manicure without the need for glue or drying time. The nails come with an adhesive already applied to the back, and are simply pressed onto the natural nail. The brand offers a wide range of colors, finishes, and designs to choose from, and the nails can be easily removed with no damage to the natural nails. imPRESS nails are a popular option for those who want a quick and easy manicure solution at home.
DASHING DIVA MAGIC PRESS ON NAILS

Photo Credit: DASHING DIVA NAILS
Dashing Diva Magic Press Nails are a type of press-on nail that promises a salon-quality manicure without the need for glue, UV light, or soaking. They come in a variety of colors and designs, and are designed to be easy to apply and remove. The nails are made with a gel-like material that is flexible and durable, and they are designed to fit most nail shapes and sizes. To apply, you simply peel off the backing, press the nail onto your own nail, and then shape and file as needed. The nails can last up to a week or more, depending on how well you care for them.
MARMALADE NAILS

Photo Credit: MARMALADE NAILS
Marmalade Nails is a brand that offers a variety of press-on nails in different shapes, lengths, and designs. Their nails are made of a high-quality gel material that is both durable and flexible, allowing for a comfortable fit. Marmalade Nails offers a range of finishes including matte, glossy, chrome, and holographic. They also offer custom nail designs for those who want a unique look. Marmalade Nails are easy to apply and can be worn for up to two weeks.
Let us know what you think your favourite press-on nails are going to be!
Lots of Love,
Road Dress Travelled x