{"id":81,"date":"2023-12-29T21:51:40","date_gmt":"2023-12-29T21:51:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vampy-varnish.com\/?p=81"},"modified":"2023-12-29T21:53:51","modified_gmt":"2023-12-29T21:53:51","slug":"what-is-a-nail-fill","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vampy-varnish.com\/what-is-a-nail-fill\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is A Nail Fill? A Complete Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

Getting your nails done is an indulgence that many people enjoy on a regular basis. If you get acrylic, gel, dip powder or any other type of artificial nails applied, you’ll need to get them refilled routinely as your natural nail grows out.<\/p>\n

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: A nail fill is a maintenance procedure to fill in the gap between your cuticle and the artificial nail as your natural nail grows out<\/b>. It replaces the material that has grown away from the cuticle to recreate the original artificial nail length and shape.<\/p>\n

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about nail fills including what they are, why you need them, how often to get them, what to expect during the process, tips and alternatives.<\/p>\n

What is a Nail Fill?<\/h2>\n

A nail fill, also known as a nail rebalance or infill, is a maintenance procedure that involves reshaping the natural nail and applying a new layer of acrylic, gel or dip powder to your existing manicure so it remains looking fresh and flawless.<\/p>\n

It allows you to keep your length and shape without having to remove and reapply a whole new set.<\/p>\n

Definition of a Nail Fill<\/h3>\n

During a fill appointment, your manicurist will file down the grown out section of your enhancement to blend it with your natural nail<\/b>. They smooth and buff the surface, push back and trim your cuticles if needed, then add new product to fill in the gap that has grown out.<\/p>\n

Fills are necessary because natural nails grow out approximately 1-2mm per week on average. As the nail plate extends, a visible demarcation line becomes apparent between the colored polish and natural nail tip.<\/p>\n

Product lifts or cracks can also develop as the bond between the enhancement and nail weakens over time.<\/p>\n

Fills are done every 2-3 weeks to maintain an even look and keep nails strong and protected.<\/p>\n

Difference Between a Fill and a New Set<\/h3>\n

While a new set involves applying enhancement over the entire natural nail and creating a whole new shape and length, a fill focuses on the re-application to the new growth area only. The original shape, length and smile line remain intact.<\/p>\n

Some key differences between a fill and a new set include:<\/p>\n

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Nail Fill<\/th>\nNew Set<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
Quicker appointment time<\/td>\nLonger appointment time<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lower cost<\/td>\nHigher cost<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Less damage to natural nails<\/td>\nHigher risk of damage with repeated removal and reapplication<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Retains your length and shape<\/td>\nAllows you to change shape and length each time<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n

Choosing to have regular fills will help maintain the health and integrity of the natural nail plate. However, periodically starting fresh with a new set allows you to modify your manicure as desired.<\/p>\n

Why Do You Need Fills?<\/h2>\n

Natural nail growth<\/h3>\n

As your natural nails grow out, the acrylic or gel polish on top can begin to separate, causing gaps near the cuticle area. On average, nails grow at a rate of 3 to 5 millimeters per month. With regular use of your hands and normal wear and tear, most people need a fill every 2 to 3 weeks to maintain the look and structure of their manicure.<\/p>\n

During a fill appointment, your nail technician will file and shape the acrylic or gel overlay to match your new nail growth. This helps prevent cracking or lifting. Getting timely fills ensures that your manicure continues looking fresh and flawless.<\/p>\n

Replacing lifted product<\/h3>\n

In addition to natural growth, fills are necessary when enhancement products like acrylic or gel begin lifting or cracking off the natural nail. Lifts frequently occur when the bond between the natural nail and the overlay has weakened over time.<\/p>\n

Exposure to chemicals like cleaning solutions can cause products to loosen. Lifting can also happen if you catch your nail on something and pull up an edge.<\/p>\n

Rather than removing the entire manicure and starting over, your tech can usually repair lifts and cracks during a fill appointment. They will gently file away the raised edge, apply nail primer to refresh the bond, and brush on new product to smooth and reinforce the area.<\/p>\n

Getting fill appointments every 2-3 weeks can catch small lifts before they become worse.<\/p>\n

Occasionally, if lifts and cracks are very severe, the best option is to soak off the acrylic or gel and do a full new set. But in most cases, timely fill appointments prevent the need to completely replace enhancements. Fills reinforce your manicure’s longevity and structural integrity.<\/p>\n

How Often Should You Get Fills?<\/h2>\n

When it comes to getting nail fills, there are a couple of factors to consider when determining the ideal frequency. Here are some general guidelines:<\/p>\n

Every 2-3 Weeks<\/h3>\n

Getting a fill every 2-3 weeks is recommended for most people. This allows your nails to grow out just enough for a proper fill, without getting too long or allowing too much of your natural nail to grow out. Fills done every 2-3 weeks help maintain the strength and appearance of your enhancements.<\/p>\n

Some key benefits of 2-3 week fill schedule:<\/p>\n