What Are Solar Nails—Pros, Cons, Pictures, Comparison - 2023

      

If you are a fan of maintaining a polished look then you know what a significant part is played by your not so significant looking nails. Getting a perfect manicure isn’t so easy afterall!

Artificial nails are trending again as they make your nails stand out. The most common materials used in artificial nails are acrylic and gel. However, there is another player in the field who has taken the market by storm—solar nails.

Our guide on solar nails will explain everything about them specifically what are solar nails, their pros and cons and the precautions one must take before getting these nail shapes. 

    

 

What Are Solar Nails?

Solar nails are not the newcomers you are thinking them to be. They have been around since the 70s. These nails are a type of acrylic nails manufactured by Creative Nail Design (CND). Even though they are a kind of acrylics, there are certain key differences between them.

One of the major differences lies in their application process.

  

While acrylic nails are just glued on the top of natural nails, solar nails are attached directly to the natural nail.

    

Also check out our guide on 51 Cute Nail Designs if are looking for nail art inspiration.

       

 

What Is The Process Of Getting Solar Nails?

The application of solar nails is a two way process. First, as part of preparation for application, the nail expert cleans your natural nails. Next, a white nail is placed on the entire natural nail followed by a pink nail which is placed only on the nail bed.

The look achieved through solar ‘pink' nails is similar to that of a French manicure. This is why they are also called permanent French nails.

  

Solar nails provide an alternative to acrylics and are stronger, durable, easier to maintain and cheaper. Most importantly, they provide a long-lasting glossy look.

    

    

But what really makes solar nails different from the other artificial nails?

    

Also check out our guide on simple nail designs as we list 55+ trending nail design ideas which are perfect for your nail makeover. These designs are simple yet very elegant and are perfect for all the occasions.

   

    

 

Solar Nails Vs Gel Nails

Gel nails are another kind of nail extensions. A gel is brushed on natural nails and then in order to harden this gel, nails are treated under UV light. These artificial nails can be easily applied and do not take as much time as acrylics. On the other hand, solar nails do not use UV rays but dry naturally to harden up.

• Though gel nails have a more glossy and natural look as compared to solar, their strength is lesser than the solar nails.
• Gel nails do not use any sort of chemicals and thus are ecofriendly while solar nails are not. Pregnant women should avoid getting solar nails because of the presence of chemicals.
• Solar nails not only last longer but are also cheaper than gel nails. They can be easily fixed at home.
• The removal process for solar nails is also comparatively easy. Acetone is enough for removal of solar nails whereas when it comes to gel nails, they have to be either filed off or are removed by soaking.

    

 

Solar Nails Vs Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails are a big part of the beauty industry. Solar nails are a kind of acrylic nails but with key differences.

• Acrylics require polymer powder and a liquid monomer to form a layer on your natural nails. They are fake nail extensions which are glued on top of the natural nails while solar nails are applied directly.
• Solar nails look more natural and are actually like an enhancement. They have a glossier appearance which does not fade easily. But, when it comes to acrylics, you would have to apply nail polish in order to maintain the gloss which will fade after a few days.
• Solar nails are more durable, convenient, and easy to maintain when compared to acrylic nails. They can be easily applied. However, certain precautions are required in the application of acrylic nails because if they are not properly applied, you can end up with an extremely unnatural fake look and in the worst case scenario, your nail bed runs the risk of getting damaged.
• Acrylic nails last up to two weeks whereas solar nails can last up to three weeks. Solar nails have limited options when it comes to designs.

      

Also Read: Nail Contouring - Trending Nail Art You Need To Know About

     

 

Pros And Cons Of Solar Nails

Solar nails boast of a variety of benefits and that is what makes them more desirable. However they also come with their fair share of cons. Read on to find out.

            

 

Pros Of Solar Nails

    
1. Long Lasting

Solar nails need not be replaced in two weeks like acrylics. Rather they only need to be refilled after three weeks.

    
2. Tan Friendly

You don’t have to think twice before using a tanning bed anymore. Get that golden glow without worrying about your nails. Solar nails don’t get yellow like other artificial nails when exposed to UV Rays used in tanning beds.

  
3. Stronger

Solar nails are made from high quality materials and thus are stronger and more resilient. You don’t have to be attentive regarding your nails all the time to keep them from breaking.

    
4. Look Natural

Amongst all the other alternatives available in the market, solar nails provide the most natural looking nails. They are, in fact, the next best thing after your natural nails.

    
5. Cheaper

Even though they are initially a bit expensive, low maintenance cost of solar nails covers it up.

     
6. Polished Look

With solar nails you get a long-lasting, clean, manicured, and polished look.

     
7. No Nail Paint Woes

Unlike acrylic nails, you don’t have to worry about painting your nails every other week. The beautiful French manicure look of solar nails polish is enough.

   
8. Say No To Discoloration

Even the natural nails have a tendency to get yellow over the course of time with frequent use of nail paint. With solar nails, say goodbye to yellow nails. Because these beauties maintain the polish look for a longer period of time without the issue of discoloration.

   
9. Easy To Remove

You don’t even have to worry about the removal process when it comes to solar nails. If not refilled, they fall off on their own. In cases where they don’t fall off, it is very easy to remove them at home.

    

Also Read: How To Grow Long Nails - 21 Proven Home Remedies

           

 

Cons Of Solar Nails

   
1. Limited Access

Solar nails are exclusively made by a brand called Creative Nail Design. The original solar nails are available at limited places for application.

  
2. Possibility Of Getting Duped

Due to the limited access, there is a big possibility that you might get duped. Either you will get similar products from a different brand or a different product altogether. There is a high risk that you will end up paying more for a product which is not of the same quality.

   
3. Not Eco-Friendly

Solar nails involve the use of chemicals. This is why it is advised that pregnant women should avoid the use of these nails. It is also a drawback for those of you who hold an aversion to chemical use.

    
4. Visibility With Nail Growth

Your natural nails start growing after about two weeks and there forms a separate line between your now further grown natural nails and solar nails.

     
5. Sore Nails

Solar nails will, of course, feel heavier than your natural ones. There is a possibility that after a long day of work you not only feel tired but also have to face a case of sore nails.

     
6. Risk Of Infections

Solar nails are sometimes also prone to bacterial and fungal infections.

    
7. Harmful In Long Run

Whether it is solar nails or any other artificial nails, they will harm your nail bed in the long run.

        

Also Read: 17 Best Products You Got To Have In Your Nail Kit

          

          

 

      

Frequently Asked Questions On Solar Nails

      

  

If you have made up your mind about getting solar nails, then there are certain other things that you have to be aware of.

    

Q - Where should one get the solar nails done?

In order to protect yourself from being duped, get your solar nails done only from a reputed nail salon. Ask your nail expert about the products being used. Ensure that you are getting your money’s worth with original products and not some cheap alternatives.

   

Also Read: How To Get Beautiful Pink Nails – 15 Potent Home Remedies

      

Q - Will my nails become heavy after getting solar nails?

As solar nails will be thicker than your natural nails, they will feel heavier as well. One might need a few days to get used to them.

   

Q - How long will my nails become once I go for solar nails?

Well, it is entirely up to you. Tell your nail expert your desired length when they are applying the solar nails and you can get it as per your requirement.

   

Also Read: 9 Easy Steps To Get The Perfect Manicure At Home!

   

 

Q - What precautions should I take before going for solar nails?

Take the following precautions while going for solar nails.

• There is always some residue left after the application process of solar nails is complete. You will have to take it off by means of cleansing of a level which is more than usual.
• Keep your nails clean to keep infections at bay. Scrub under your nails using a nail brush to get rid of impurities.
• When your natural nails start growing, you don’t have to worry. Go back to your nail salon and they will fill in the differentiation separation that is formed. No matter what happens, do not cut your nails off. Though, you can file them.

    

Q - Does solar nails fall off on its own?

Solar nails will fall off after three weeks if not refilled. They will fall off on their own and it won’t hurt. You will not even feel it. Your nails will not be damaged as such but be ready to face weaker nails that are dry and dehydrated for almost a week.

      

Go on ladies. Now you know the basics of solar nails. Rush to your nearest salon and get them.

       

       

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