User:YaYa8999/sandbox

Artificial nails require regular upkeep; it is recommended that they are attended to, on average, every two weeks, however they may last over one month. Nonetheless, their versatility in terms of shape, size, design and comparatively high durability are some advantages they hold over other types of manicures. (source added)

After experiments with different materials to perfect his invention, he and his brother, Tom, patented a successful version and started the company Patti Nails. Fred Slack used his dental equipment and chemicals to replace his natural nail, but over time the process has significantly changed. (source added)

Nail infection and damage to natural nail
If fitted properly, artificial nails are usually not problematic. However, long term use and poorly fitted nails can seriously damage the nail bed and hamper natural nail growth. Natural nails may become thin and weaken with frequent touch-ups (sentence added). The most common problem associated with artificial nails is a fungal infection that may develop between the false and natural nail.

Exposure to methyl methacrylate (the precursor to acrylic glass) can cause drowsiness, light-headedness, and trembling of the hands, and so it has been banned for use in cosmetology in the majority of US states. Use of methyl methacrylate can cause skin reactions and damages to the nailbed, sometimes even permanently (sentence added). Some signs that a nail salon is still using MMA might be prices that are significantly lower than most other nail salons. There will be an unusually strong and fruity odor. Also, the manicurist will often be wearing a mask to keep from breathing in the harmful chemical. Removal is much more difficult, and drills are more excessively used. Ethyl methacrylate is the safer alternative for MMA, but it costs several times as much and can still produce many effects.

Nail wraps are stickers that are placed on the natural nail which are often made with fiberglass, linen, silk fabric, or another material to fit on the surface of the nail (or a tip attached prior), to be sealed onto the nail plate with a layer of resin or glue. They do not damage the nail and also provide strength to the nail but are not used to lengthen it. Nail wraps can also be used to fix broken nails. The treatment is however more expensive. Nail wraps usually last 5–7 days but can last longer if worn and used correctly. To take nail wraps off correctly, soak the wrap in acetone just enough to deteriorate the adhesive.
 * During the Ming Dynasty of China, noblewomen wore very long artificial nails as a status symbol indicating that, unlike commoners, they did not have to do manual labor.
 * In early 19th century Greece, upper-class women often wore empty pistachio shells over their nails, slowly spreading the artificial nail trend across Europe.
 * (Deleted irrelevant info) Ancient Egyptian women wore nail extensions made from bone, ivory and gold as a sign of status as these materials were luxuries available only to the wealthy.