American laying technique: we explain it all!

Fake nails are still going strong! An increasingly popular technique on social media and offered in salons, the "American set" fascinates as much as it intrigues. Let's take a closer look at this modern method that beautifies our hands!

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What is the American set?

You probably think it's just about classic fake nails, but no! The American set is more than just that. The American set is a professional manicure technique using tips that are directly applied to natural nails. This method, very popular in nail bars, provides a perfect and durable finish. American tips are available in different sizes to adapt to all nail shapes. These tips alone form the curve and extension of the nail. The first significant advantage is that artificial nails used in the American set do not require any shaping work!

As a result, it's a set that can easily be done at home. Applied generously, a UV/LED base ensures the tip stays firmly on the nail.

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Furthermore, it's important to note that this manicure technique is free from tedious maintenance. Why? Because it's a temporary set designed to adorn nails for up to 4 weeks. Consequently, these tips are ideal for special occasions, such as ceremonies or holidays. As for removal, no filing is necessary: a simple soak in a remover dissolves the tips. A solution that thus preserves the nail base.

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The American set step by step

By following these steps, your hands will be all dressed up for a beautiful manicure!

1. Set up your UV/LED lamp so it's quickly ready for use with the gel and tips
2. Wash your hands and disinfect your nails
3. Prepare your natural nail by pushing back cuticles and lightly filing the surface with a buffer block to aid adhesion, then apply a primer (air dry)
4. Select the correct tip based on the nail shape and finger size. To choose the shape (almond, square, etc.) and sizes (medium, short, XL) of the tips, it's according to your preferences.
5. If you have a nail drill, mattify the inner part of the tip that will be in contact with the nail using an emery bit (surface equivalent to your nail)
6. Spread a drop of Gummy Base on the filed part of the tip, then fill the dome with a second drop to avoid empty spaces (goal: perfect adhesion!)
7. Without applying too much pressure, gently place the tip on your nail, bringing it as close as possible to the cuticles, while avoiding air bubbles
8. If the base overflows the nail, wipe it off with a brush
9. Cure the nail and its tip under the UV/LED lamp for 1 minute to be sure
10. File and refine the tip to achieve the desired shape
11. Scratch its surface with the gritty block to make it grippy
12. Apply color polish (1 or 2 coats) or gel, then finish with a top coat for shine and protection!

The importance of tips and sizes

The secret to a beautiful set lies in choosing the right tips. Their sizes must be perfectly adapted to each nail. Specialized articles recommend soft tips for a natural result.

There you go, now that you know all about the American set, you can start researching products and thinking about your next hand beautification! Oh, and if you prefer to entrust your nails to a professional, there's no need to break the bank; expect to pay around €50 for this service.

Maintenance and nail art

Regular maintenance with a suitable kit extends the life of your nails. Permanent gel provides optimal protection, while nail art personalizes your style. If you apply American tips yourself, the price will be cheaper than at a salon, but it is preferable to go to a nail technician.

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Expert advice and specialized articles

Nail art professionals recommend quality supplies. The almond shape remains trendy, as does soft glam. Technical articles emphasize the importance of a good finish with a high-performance LED lamp.

Not sure if you prefer an almond, square, pointed, or oval shape for your manicure? Discover our article that will help you choose your nail shape (and other tips).

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does an American tip set last? Approximately 3-4 weeks
• Nail protection: Well-applied semi-permanent polish does not damage them
• How to remove a set without a form? To be done by a professional with a suitable kit, following each step
• Why use a top coat? A top coat protects your manicure, makes it shine, extends its wear, and preserves the beauty of your nails by creating a transparent barrier against scratches and wear.

The essential equipment for a complete kit

To achieve a successful application, several elements are necessary:

• A complete kit of American tips, with a pre-made shape to save you time
• A LED lamp for curing gel and polish
• A base and top gel
• A nail drill
• Some permanent polish
• A nail art kit for decoration with rhinestones and stars, for example

Need nail art inspiration? Discover inspirations for Valentine's Day, whether with semi-permanent polish, gel, or other...

Manicure kit

Using acrylic with American tips

Acrylic is generally not used in the American set. In fact, the American set uses pre-formed soft gel tips, not acrylic. This technique is distinguished by the use of gel rather than acrylic for several reasons:

1. Speed of application: They allow for faster application than techniques using acrylic.
2. Natural look: Gel offers a more natural and aesthetic finish than acrylic.
3. Flexibility: The gel used in the American set is more flexible, which reduces the risk of breakage or lifting.
4. Ease of application: The American set does not require complex nail construction, unlike techniques using acrylic.
   
5. Durability: Although acrylic is known for its durability, the gel used in the American set also offers excellent hold, generally between 3 and 4 weeks.