A nail plastic form is a reusable mold made of plastic that helps shape and extend artificial nails during the application of acrylics or gels.
It is designed to fit underneath the natural nail, providing a guide for creating the desired length and shape of the nail extension.
These forms are typically flexible yet sturdy, allowing the user to create consistent, even shapes across all nails.
They are often used in professional nail salons or for home use by those skilled in acrylic or gel nail applications.
Unlike traditional nail tips that are glued onto the nail, plastic forms provide a more natural, seamless finish when building extensions.
How to Use a Nail Plastic Form:
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Prepare Your Natural Nails:
- Start by cleaning your nails and pushing back your cuticles. Buff the surface of your natural nails to remove shine, and trim them to a suitable length.
- Make sure your nails are free from oils and moisture for better adhesion.
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Apply the Nail Plastic Form:
- Take the plastic form and slide it under the edge of your natural nail. The form should sit snugly against the nail, with no gaps between the nail and the form.
- Adjust the form so that it is aligned with the natural curve of your nail, ensuring it’s stable and secure.
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Apply Acrylic or Gel:
- Once the plastic form is in place, apply the acrylic or gel product over the natural nail and onto the plastic form. Shape the product to extend the length of the nail, using the form as a guide for symmetry.
- Use a brush to smooth the product evenly over the form, making sure the thickness and shape are consistent.
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Cure (for Gels):
- If using gel, cure the nails under a UV or LED lamp as per the product’s instructions until the gel hardens. Acrylic will harden naturally without the need for a curing lamp.
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Remove the Form:
- After the acrylic or gel has been set and dried, carefully remove the plastic form by gently pulling it away from the nail extension. The extension should now hold its shape without the form.
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File and Shape:
- Once the form is removed, use a nail file to refine the shape of the extension, smoothing any rough edges and perfecting the desired shape (square, oval, stiletto, etc.).
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Finish the Nails:
- Apply a top coat or finish your nails with any desired nail polish or decoration.
- Let everything dry completely, or cure under a lamp if necessary, to complete the look.
Tips:
- Ensure the plastic form fits snugly to prevent any product from leaking underneath, which can affect the shape.
- Practice makes perfect. Working with plastic forms might take time to master, especially when applying acrylic or gel evenly.
- Clean the plastic forms after each use to maintain hygiene and usability for future applications.
Nail plastic forms are a great tool for achieving long-lasting, custom-shaped extensions with precision.