What Are Solar Nails? All You Need To Know

When it comes to lovely, lengthy, and downright luxurious artificial nails, most people opt for long-lasting acrylic nails or gel nails.

But why are we only given two predominant choices? What if you’re looking for something better?

If you want breakthrough nail extensions, consider going the solar route.

What Are Solar Nails?

Okay, before we dive into how they’re applied and why they should be on your “beauty to-do list,” first, we need to uncover what solar nails actually are.

Well, solar nails are essentially another type of acrylic nails created and produced by Creative Nail Design.

And while these lovely fake nail extensions seem to have taken the beauty industry by force in recent years, they’ve actually been around since the 70s.

Solar nails are designed to be more durable and long-lasting compared to regular acrylic nails and gel nails.

Solar Nails: Pros And Cons

Let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons of solar nails so that you can better understand what these fake nails are all about.

Pro: Last Three Weeks

Typical acrylic nails only last two weeks before they need to be filled in, while solar nails can last up to three weeks.

This means an extra week to enjoy your nails before hitting the local nail salon.

Pro: More Durable

One of the biggest nuisances of having acrylic nails is that they break relatively easily.

Well, the same isn’t true for solar nails.

Solar nails are impressively durable so that you can do just about anything without fear of cracks or breaks.

Pro: Natural, Yet Glossy

Unlike other plastic nail extensions, solar nails have an undeniably natural and glossy appearance that’s downright fabulous.

Plus, they won’t get discolored over time so you can enjoy your nails without mishaps.

Pro: Easy Removal Process

Have you ever tried to remove acrylic nail enhancements? It’s nothing short of a hassle.

Solar nails fall off with ease after the three-week mark. If not, they’re still a cinch to take off.

Con: Limited Access

Solar false nails are only manufactured by one company, so they can be hard to find.

That said, there are many “dupes” on the market, and a nail tech may charge more than “true” solar nails.

Con: Use Chemicals

If you’re looking for beautiful nails without the use of chemicals, you won’t want to go the solar route.

Solar nails require a decent amount of chemicals to create, which many find displeasing.

Con: Heavy

Solar nails are heavier than most artificial nails, so they will cause some soreness along the way.

Con: Harmful to the Nail Bed

Honestly, it doesn’t matter whether you opt for gel nails, acrylic nails, or solar nails.

Over time, your manicure is going to cause harm to your natural nails.

How to Apply Solar Nails

The solar application process is similar to acrylic, which isn’t surprising considering solar nails fall under the umbrella of acrylics.

However, the difference is that solar nails apply the acrylic powder and liquid monomer in two steps.

First, the professional nail technician will prep the nail, which is typical for any artificial nail enhancement procedure.

Then, they will apply a plastic nail extension to the entire nail using nail glue to create your desired length and shape.

From there, the nail tech will apply the pink solar powder and monomer to your natural nail bed using a nail brush, followed by a white mixture to your nail tips.

This creates the “French manicure” style typical of solar nails.

There is no nail polish required and no UV lamp, UV light, or UV rays necessary, which is the case for gel nails made with gel polish.

How Long Do Solar Nails Usually Last?

One of the benefits of solar nails is that they will typically last up to three or four weeks on your nail beds without needing to be filled in at your local nail salons.

It depends on how fast your nails grow.

Are Solar Nails Better Than Acrylic?

When it comes to solar nails vs. acrylic nails, solar nails win every time.

They are far more durable and long-lasting than acrylics, which tend to chip and break if you’re not incredibly careful. The nail polish doesn’t last as long, either.

Solar nails are infinitely easier to manage and remove, too.

Many agree that applying solar nails is a quicker and simpler process, too, so you’re not waiting too long to get your new look.

FAQ

Can I Paint Solar Nails?

Solar nails are typically designed to look like your natural nails or a “French manicure.” That’s because, like your natural nails, they have a pink nail plate and white tips.

However, that doesn’t mean you’re “stuck” with solar nails that resemble your natural nails.

You can paint over your solar nails using any color you want. In fact, many claim that nail paint adheres to solar nails better than other types of enhancements, which makes solar nails popular.

Can I Trim Solar Nails?

Much like acrylics, you should not try to trim your solar nails using nail clippers.

The better option is to use a coarse nail file or nail drill machine to remove length from your solar nail.

This way, you won’t cause a funky-looking cut or end up with sharp points.

Are solar nails more expensive?

Solar nails tend to be more expensive than acrylics and gel nails. This is primarily due to the fact that they are more difficult to find, and they’re also more long-lasting and durable.

You can expect to pay around $30-$50 for solar nails.

How are solar nails removed?

Solar nails will fall off after three to four weeks. If you want them off sooner, simply soak them in pure acetone or another nail polish remover for ten minutes, and they will come right off.