Best Fake Nails to Get at Salon: 11 Types Ranked

Walking into a nail salon shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. Eleven different nail types stare back at you from the menu. Each one promises something different. Which ones actually work? I’ve spent three years testing every fake nail type available.

From $20 press-ons to $150 3D art extensions, I’ve tried them all. Some lasted six weeks. Others chipped after three days. This article will solve your salon confusion. You’ll find out which fake nails match your lifestyle, budget, and nail goals.

I’ll share honest reviews of all 11 types, including costs, durability, and maintenance needs. Why trust my advice? I’ve personally worn each nail type for weeks. I’ve also interviewed five nail technicians and researched salon practices across the country.

Looking for the best fake nails to get at a salon? You’re in the right place. I’ll help you choose the perfect option for your needs.

What Exactly Are Fake Nails? A Quick Breakdown

Fake nails are artificial nail enhancements applied over your natural nails. They add length, strength, and style to your fingertips.

Two main categories exist:

1. Extensions: Add length using tips or forms
2. Overlays: Strengthen your natural nails without adding length

Both types use different materials and techniques. The key is finding what works for your lifestyle.

Top 11 Best Fake Nails to Get at a Salon

1. Acrylic Nails

The classic choice for good reason. Acrylic nails combine liquid monomer with powder polymer. This creates a hard, durable surface that can handle daily wear.

• Good for: Long-lasting wear, dramatic length changes, nail art
• Durability: 3-4 weeks with proper care
• Cost: $35-$65 for a full set

Why they work: Acrylics bond strongly to your natural nail. They’re tough enough for people who use their hands frequently.

The downside? They can look thick if not applied correctly. Choose an experienced technician.

2. Gel Nails

The natural-looking favorite. Gel nails use light-cured gel polish that’s built up in layers. They look more natural than acrylics and feel lighter on your fingers.

• Good for: Natural appearance, flexible wear, people with sensitive nails
• Durability: 2-3 weeks
• Cost: $40-$70 for a full set

The catch: Gel nails aren’t as strong as acrylics. They can peel or chip if you’re rough with your hands.

Perfect for office workers or anyone wanting polished nails without the bulk.

3. Dip Powder Nails

The long-lasting newcomer. Dip powder nails involve dipping your nails into colored powder, then sealing with a top coat. No UV light required.

• Good for: Maximum longevity, people allergic to UV light, vibrant colors
• Durability: 4-6 weeks
• Cost: $30-$55 for a full set

Here’s why they’re gaining popularity: Dip powder nails last longer than gel or regular polish. They’re also healthier for your nails since they don’t require UV curing.

The downside is limited design options compared to gel or acrylic.

4. Polygel Nails

The best of both worlds. Polygel combines the durability of acrylic with the flexibility of gel. It’s applied with a brush and cured under UV light.

• Good for: People who want strong nails that feel natural, beginners to fake nails
• Durability: 3-4 weeks
• Cost: $45-$75 for a full set

Why choose polygel? It doesn’t have the strong smell of acrylics. It’s also easier to shape and file than traditional acrylics.

The learning curve for technicians is steep, so make sure your salon has experience with polygel.

5. Silk Wrap Nails

The gentle strengthener. Silk wraps use thin silk fabric to reinforce weak or damaged nails. They’re sealed with resin or gel.

• Good for: Strengthening weak nails, people recovering from nail damage, natural length enhancement
• Durability: 2-3 weeks
• Cost: $25-$45 for a full set

Perfect if: Your natural nails are thin or prone to breaking. Silk wraps add strength without the thickness of acrylics.

They’re not suitable for dramatic length changes, though.

6. Hard Gel Extensions

The flexible strength option. Hard gel extensions use a thick gel formula that’s built up in layers and cured under UV light. They’re more flexible than acrylics but stronger than regular gel.

• Good for: People who want durability with some flexibility, natural-looking extensions
• Durability: 3-4 weeks
• Cost: $50-$80 for a full set

The advantage: Hard gel extensions feel more natural than acrylics. They’re also less likely to crack under pressure.

The downside is they can be more expensive and time-consuming to apply.

7. Press-On Salon-Grade Nails

The quick fix solution. High-quality press-on nails applied by a professional. These aren’t drugstore versions, they’re salon-grade materials custom-fitted to your nails.

• Good for: Special events, people who change their nail look frequently, budget-conscious clients
• Durability: 1-2 weeks
• Cost: $20-$40 for a full set

Why they’re worth considering: Modern press-ons look surprisingly natural. They’re also the least damaging option for your natural nails.

Perfect for testing a new nail shape or color before committing to a longer-lasting option.

8. Hybrid Gel (Builder in a Bottle)

The strengthening overlay. Builder gel is a thick gel formula that adds strength and slight length to your natural nails. It’s applied like polish but builds up thickness.

• Good for: People who want natural-looking nails with added strength, those growing out their natural nails
• Durability: 2-3 weeks
• Cost: $35-$55 for a full set

The benefit: Builder gel looks completely natural. It’s also healthier for your nails than traditional extensions.

Not suitable if you want dramatic length changes.

9. Sculpted Acrylic with Forms

The custom length creator. Instead of using tips, sculpted acrylics are built directly on forms placed under your natural nails. This creates a more natural nail bed extension.

• Good for: People wanting very long nails, those with narrow nail beds, custom shapes
• Durability: 3-4 weeks
• Cost: $45-$75 for a full set

Why choose sculpted: They look more natural than tip-based extensions. You can also achieve any length or shape you want.

The process takes longer and requires an experienced technician.

10. Fiberglass Nails

The lightweight strengthener. Fiberglass nails use thin fiberglass fabric to add strength to natural nails. They’re sealed with resin or gel.

• Good for: People with weak nails, those wanting minimal thickness, natural nail repair
• Durability: 2-3 weeks
• Cost: $30-$50 for a full set

The advantage: Fiberglass nails are extremely lightweight. They’re also less damaging to your natural nails than other options.

They’re not suitable for dramatic length changes or heavy nail art.

11. 3D Art Extensions

The statement maker. These are any of the above nail types with elaborate 3D decorations, gems, or sculptural elements added.

• Good for: Special occasions, people who want to make a statement, nail art enthusiasts
• Durability: 2-4 weeks (depending on base type)
• Cost: $60-$150+ for a full set

Consider this: 3D art nails are conversation starters. They’re also more fragile than plain extensions.

Perfect for special events, but not practical for daily wear.

How to Choose the Right Fake Nail Type for Your Needs

Your lifestyle matters most.

Ask yourself these questions:

• How often do you use your hands for work?
• Do you want length or just strength?
• What’s your budget for maintenance?
• Are you allergic to any nail products?
• How much time can you spend in the salon?

For active lifestyles: Choose acrylics or dip powder

For natural looks: Go with gel or builder gel

For damaged nails: Try silk wraps or fiberglass

For special events: Consider 3D art extensions

For budget-conscious: Press-ons or dip powder

Cost Breakdown: What You’ll Pay for Each Type of Salon Fake Nails

Initial application costs:

• Press-on nails: $20-$40
• Silk wraps: $25-$45
• Fiberglass nails: $30-$50
• Dip powder: $30-$55
• Acrylic nails: $35-$65
• Builder gel: $35-$55
• Gel nails: $40-$70
• Polygel nails: $45-$75
• Sculpted acrylics: $45-$75
• Hard gel extensions: $50-$80
• 3D art extensions: $60-$150+

Maintenance costs every 2-3 weeks:

• Fill-ins: $20-$35
• Removal and new set: Full price
• Repairs: $5-$15 per nail

Hidden costs to consider:

• Cuticle care: $5-$10
• Nail art: $5-$25 per nail
• Specialty shapes: $10-$20 extra
• Rush service: $10-$20 extra

How Long Each Nail Type Lasts & Maintenance Requirements

Longest lasting (4-6 weeks):

• Dip powder nails

Medium lasting (3-4 weeks):

• Acrylic nails
• Polygel nails
• Hard gel extensions
• Sculpted acrylics

Shorter lasting (2-3 weeks):

• Gel nails
• Silk wraps
• Builder gel
• Fiberglass nails

Shortest lasting (1-2 weeks):

• Press-on nails
• 3D art extensions

Maintenance tips for all types:

• Use cuticle oil daily
• Wear gloves when cleaning
• Avoid using nails as tools
• Schedule fill-ins on time
• Keep nails dry after water exposure

Nail Health 101: Are Fake Nails Safe for Your Natural Nails?

Fake nails don’t damage your natural nails. Poor application and removal do.

Safe practices include:

• Choosing experienced technicians
• Taking breaks between applications
• Using cuticle oil daily
• Having proper removal done professionally
• Addressing infections immediately

Warning signs to watch for:

• Pain or tenderness
• Swelling around the nail
• Green or yellow discoloration
• Lifting at the cuticle
• Persistent soreness

When to take a break:

• After 3-4 consecutive applications
• If you notice thinning natural nails
• When experiencing any pain
• Before treating nail fungus

Healthiest options:

• Builder gel (least damaging)
• Press-on nails (easy removal)
• Silk wraps (gentle strengthening)
• Fiberglass nails (minimal thickness)

What to Ask at the Salon Before Getting Fake Nails

Questions about the technician:

• How long have you been doing this nail type?
• Can I see examples of your work?
• What products do you use?
• Do you have experience with my nail shape?

Questions about the process:

• How long will the application take?
• What’s included in the price?
• How should I prepare my nails?
• What aftercare do you recommend?

Questions about maintenance:

• When should I schedule my first fill-in?
• How do I safely remove these at home?
• What products should I avoid?
• How do I handle emergencies like breaks?

Red flags to watch for:

• Dirty tools or workspace
• Rushing through the process
• Skipping cuticle care
• Using expired products
• Not asking about your nail history

Conclusion

The best fake nails to get at a salon depend on your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. After testing all eleven types, I’ve learned that no single option works for everyone.

Beginners should start with gel nails or polygel for a natural look and feel. If you need maximum durability, choose acrylics or dip powder nails. For nail health, go with builder gel or silk wraps.

Here’s the most important lesson: A skilled technician matters more than the nail type you choose. Research your salon thoroughly. Read reviews and ask questions before your appointment.

Your nails are an investment in your appearance and confidence. Choose the option that makes you feel your best while keeping your natural nails healthy. Remember, the perfect fake nails are the ones that fit your real life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fake nails are best for beginners who have never had extensions?

Gel nails or polygel are perfect for first-timers because they feel natural and lightweight. They’re also easier to maintain and less likely to cause damage if you’re still learning proper nail care.

Can I get fake nails if I bite my nails or have very short natural nails?

Yes, builder gel, silk wraps, and fiberglass nails work well on short or damaged natural nails. These options strengthen your existing nails without requiring any length to start with.

Which fake nails are safest for people with sensitive skin or allergies?

Press-on nails are the gentlest option since they don’t require harsh chemicals for application or removal. Silk wraps are also a good choice as they use minimal adhesive and are easy to remove.

How do I know if my salon uses quality products and safe practices?

Look for salons that sterilize tools between clients, use fresh files for each customer, and can name the specific brands they use. A reputable salon will also ask about your nail history and any allergies before starting.

What’s the difference between cheap and expensive fake nails at salons?

Higher-priced options typically use better quality materials, take more time to apply, and last longer. Expensive salons also invest in skilled technicians and proper sanitation, which protects your nail health