SNS nails are a popular option in manicures, offering a long-lasting, lightweight, and healthier alternative to traditional acrylics and gels. But what is SNS nails exactly? SNS stands for Signature Nail Systems, a dipping powder nail system that provides strength, durability, and a natural appearance without the use of harsh chemicals or UV light.
What are SNS nails?
SNS stands for Signature Nail Systems, a brand that popularised the dip powder nail technique. Rather than using UV light like gel polish or building layers with liquid and powder like acrylics, SNS nails involve dipping the nail into coloured powder. This powder is then sealed with a special bonding solution that hardens and creates a long-lasting, smooth finish.
Dip powder nails have been around for years, but SNS brought the technique into the mainstream, especially in salons across Australia. They’ve become a go-to option for those seeking a strong, long-wearing manicure without the heavy feel or harsh chemicals of acrylics.
Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how to apply SNS nails:
1. Nail preparation
- The technician first starts by preparing the natural nail.
- The nail is trimmed, shaped, and buffed to create an even surface.
- The cuticles are also pushed back or trimmed for a better appearance.
2. Application of base coat
- A bonding agent or base coat is applied to the nails.
- This layer acts as the foundation for the dipping powder, ensuring a smooth and even application.
3. Dipping the nails
- The coloured powder is dipped into each nail, or the powder is sprinkled onto the nail.
- This can be repeated several times to achieve the desired opacity and strength.
- It does not require UV light as the powder hardens naturally when mixed with the bonding agent.
4. Activator and Sealing
- The powder receives a hardening activator liquid applied on it after the dipping process.
- Next comes a top coat, which seals the colour and adds a glossy finish.
5. Drying time
- SNS nails do not need UV or LED lamps to cure.
- Activator and top coat air-dry in a few minutes.
- This makes the process quicker and safer for the nails.
Benefits of SNS nails
SNS nails have become popular for many reasons and they are much better than any other type of manicure. Some of the key benefits include:
1. Healthier for natural nails
SNS powder contains vitamins and minerals that help strengthen the natural nails over time. Unlike acrylics, which can weaken the nails, SNS is a gentler alternative.
2. No UV light required
The advantages of SNS nails are first, the absence of the use of UV or LED light to cure. This minimises exposure to harmful UV rays, which can contribute to premature skin ageing.
3. Lightweight and comfortable
NS nails feel much lighter than acrylics. This makes them a lot more comfortable to wear, especially for people who want the manicure to feel more natural.
4. Long-lasting and durable
The good thing about SNS nails is that they do not chip for up to three or four weeks, making them a great low-maintenance manicure. Powder formula is also strong and crack-resistant, like acrylics.
5. Odour-free application
Acrylic nails usually smell very chemical when applied, but SNS does not have such an odour. This way, the technician and the client are both better off.
6. Variety of colours and finishes
SNS provides an extensive range of colours and finishes, such as matte, glossy, glitter, and even ombre effects. This allows for endless creative possibilities when it comes to nail designs.
Possible drawbacks of SNS nails
While SNS nails have many benefits, they also have a few possible downsides that need to be taken into consideration before opting for this type of manicure.
1. Removal can be damaging
- SNS nail removal is usually done by soaking the nails in acetone, which dries out and damages the nails if repeated too often.
- Therefore, it is important to do the removal process correctly so that the natural nails are not weakened.
2. Expensive
- SNS nails can be pretty pricey compared to gel and traditional acrylic.
- The cost will vary depending on the salon, however, but an SNS manicure is supposed to usually run between $40 to $70 in Australia.
3. Risk of cross-contamination
- In case salons use a community dipping well for multiple customers, there is the risk of bacterial contamination.
- Some salons avoid this by using individual servings of powder or by applying powder using a brush rather than dipping.
4. Less sculpting versatility
- Although SNS nails offer many colours, acrylics are more versatile when it comes to shaping and detailed 3D nail art.
- Those looking for highly sculpted or artistic nails may prefer acrylic options.
SNS nails vs gel vs acrylic – what’s the difference?
Still unsure whether SNS is right for you? Here’s how SNS compares to other popular nail treatments:
| Feature | SNS Nails | Gel Nails | Acrylic Nails |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curing method | No UV light | Requires UV/LED light | Air-dried |
| Durability | 2–3 weeks | 2–3 weeks | 3–4 weeks |
| Feel | Natural, lightweight | Flexible, glossy | Thick, heavier |
| Nail health | Enriched with nutrients | Can weaken nails | Harsh on natural nails |
| Cost in Australia | $50–$75 | $40–$65 | $50–$80 |
| Removal method | Acetone soak | Acetone soak | Filed or soaked off |
SNS is a solid middle ground for those looking for strength, shine, and a more natural nail feel without committing to gels or acrylics.
How to care for SNS nails
This is how to care for your SNS nails and maintain your healthy natural nails below:
1. Moisturise nails and cuticles
The nails can make your nails feel dry after some time, so one needs to keep applying cuticle oil and hand cream to maintain the moisture levels of the nails.
2. Don’t use your nails as tools
Try not to use your nails for opening cans or scraping off stickers or doing other things that will make them crack or chip off.
3. Wear gloves while cleaning
Household cleaning products typically contain chemicals that will strip your SNS nail. You can wear gloves to protect your manicure when washing dishes or using cleaning products.
4. Get regular refills
When your nail starts growing out, you do not need to have the whole thing taken off and reapplied. Instead, you can have them refilled, which keeps you looking great with minimal exposure to acetone.
5. Remove SNS nails properly
Never scrape or peel off SNS nails as these may damage your natural nails and should be allowed to dissolve while soaking in acetone for at least 10-15 minutes. It would be best not to remove yourself but to ask a professional nail technician to handle the removal.
Why SNS nails are trending in Australia
From Melbourne to Brisbane, SNS nails have become a staple at nail salons across the country. The Australian climate, with its warm weather and outdoor lifestyle, makes chip-resistant nails a major plus. Whether you’re swimming at the beach, hiking through the bush, or heading to the office, SNS offers a manicure that can keep up.
Plus, with growing awareness around UV exposure and nail health, more Aussies are seeking alternatives to traditional gels and acrylics. SNS fills that gap perfectly.
Conclusion
SNS Nails revolutionized the nail manicure market by providing a safer and healthier alternative without compromising durability or looks. From pure nude to colourful and trendy ombre, SNS comes in a diverse variety of tones to suit your style. Sure, they might be a nuisance to remove, but the SNS nail proves to be worth it for its users. By knowing the advantages and disadvantages as well as care techniques, one can enjoy stunning SNS nails while maintaining a healthy natural nail.
