BEAUTY
Here's What You Should Know Before Getting Overlay Nails
By MONICA GILL
Frequent trips to the salon can lead to damaged nails, which is where overlay nails come in. Acrylic, gel, or dip overlay covers your natural nails and allows them to breathe.
Unlike Gel-X, overlays don't use extensions, and they last around three weeks, meaning your nails can maintain the same length while they heal.
Overlays are healthier options compared to acrylic or press-on nails, as they offer a protective layer to support weak nails. Gel overlays come in two varieties: soft and hard gel.
The difference is that hard gel requires an electric file to be removed, whereas soft gel comes off with acetone. For a longer-lasting manicure, opt for hard gel.
In terms of nail health, hard gel overlays are used for "strength and structure," while soft gel is mostly "just for color and art," nail stylist Vicki Ornellas told Glamour.
Keep in mind that, while overlays are better than acrylics, they can't intrinsically heal your nails. They simply act as an extra barrier that isn't as harsh as press-ons.