Silk wrap nails are having a resurgence in the nail industry. This technique used to be very popular in the 1980’s. Then it suffered a bit of a slump due to the popularity of acrylics and gels.

However, because it is so easy and affordable to do at home, people are choosing it over gel manicures. It helps that this is one of the healthiest nail enhancements you can try for your nails that actually leaves your nails healthier than before.

Personally, I have always struggled with brittle nails and gel nails have always left my nails weaker. That’s why I am always on the lookout for healthier, yet fashionable and aesthetically pleasing alternatives. I will walk you through silk wrap nails pros and cons, easy how-tos, and best products so you can try this method out for yourself.

What are Silk Wrap Nails?

Silk wrap nails are a wonderful thing to try if you have damaged nails, to repair a broken or split nail, or if your nails are prone to breaking. Silk wraps for your nails will also add durability to any regular manicure.

To use silk wrap nails, you apply pieces of silk custom fit to your nail on top of the bare nail. Silk wraps may be used not only to reinforce the existing nail but also to add a little bit of length. Nothing like an acrylic nail though, of course!

Who Are Silk Wraps Great for?

This is a wonderful option for those who are looking for shorter nails and need a natural way to reinforce a nail that is very aesthetically pleasing. If you are looking for a nail enhancement option that will help heal a damaged nail while providing durability over a regular manicure, this is hands down the best choice. And it’s so easy and affordable to do at home.

However, do keep in mind that if you are constantly washing your hands or working with chemicals, you should definitely wear gloves and apply lotions to your hands or this manicure will likely not last as long.

Are Silk Wraps Good For Your Nails?

Silk wraps are great for your nails! They are very lightweight and thus look very natural on the nail while reinforcing it. The removal process is safe as well. Many other products claim to strengthen your nails. However, most of them may damage the nail during the removal process. Acrylics and gels come to mind.

Another alternative to consider are fiberglass nail wraps. Many people use them interchangeably, but they are in fact different though offer similar benefits.

Pros of Silk Wrap Nails

Silk wrap nails add strength and structure to natural nails
They reduce the risk of nail breakage
The removal process will not damage the nail
Silk is a breathable material unlike acrylic and gel
Super lightweight; this makes them very comfortable
Look so natural that you do not need to paint over or add nail art
You can paint your normal polish over and add nail art if you like
May be used for adding a bit of length to your natural nail
Great for fixing a broken, torn, or otherwise damaged nail
May be used for hiding nail discoloration or other cosmetic issues
Easy to learn and apply and/or remove at home
Silk nail wraps are very affordable
Does not require the use of UV or LED lamps
Great for those with sensitive nails or allergies to acrylics or primers
Last up to 2 weeks with proper care (avoid too much water exposure).

Cons of Silk Wrap Nails

Silk wraps are not as tough or durable as gels or acrylics
It will not last as long as other artificial nail extensions or covers
It may come off sooner if you expose your hands to water a lot
Not all nail salons offer this service.

How to Apply Silk Wrap Nails at Home?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply silk wrap nails at home.

Prepare and lay out the necessary items.
You will need silk wraps (pre-cut or full sheets), nail polish remover, nail file, nail glue, and a glue resin to seal it.
Clean, trim, and file your fingernails.
Trim your nails, file them, wash your hands, and use an acetone nail polish remover to get rid of any nail polish or oil residue.
I do not recommend filing the top surface of the nail, especially if you’re not blessed with strong thick nails.
Prepare the silk wrap.
Either match the right size if you’re using pre-cut silk wrap nail strips or cut to size if you’re using silk wrap sheets or roll. You may need to trim the length as well, but let it extend a bit beyond the nail tip for now.
Apply the silk wrap on your nails.
If using silk wrap nail with an adhesive (highly recommended), just apply the correct size to the nail starting from the nail bed to the top of the nail and from center down to sides. Watch out for bubbles.
If using silk wrap without an adhesive, apply some nail glue to the nail first. And make sure not to glue yourself (speaking from experience!)
Seal the silk wrap.
Use a sealing substance like a water-soluble sealant or a resin to seal the nail. Once dry, you can buff, shape the nail, and even out the surface.
Paint or add nail art.
You can forgo this step, or add a nail polish of choice. Any nail art can be added now just like a regular nail.

How to Remove Silk Wrap Nails at Home?

Prepare all the necessary items. You will need an acetone-based nail polish remover if you used glue resin for sealing, or just water if it was a water-soluble sealant, cotton balls, a bowl, and a way to warm the acetone/water. Also, a place to wash your hands with soap, some cuticle oil, or hand lotion.
Warm the acetone-based polish remover. In a small bowl warm the polish remover until lukewarm. I like to place it in another larger container filled with warm/hot water OR use a coffee mug warmer to gently heat and keep the solution warm.
Soak your nails. Soak your nails in the acetone solution for a couple of minutes.
Remove the silk wrap. At this point you should be able to take a cotton ball dipped in acetone and gently slide the silk wrap off. If this is difficult, repeat the soak again.
Condition your hands and nails. Use the cuticle oil and hand lotion to condition your nails and hands. Especially important if you had to use acetone to remove the wrap.

Pro Tip #1

Opt for pre-cut sheets of silk wrap that come with an adhesive, especially when starting out. You don’t run the risk of gluing yourself and this significantly speeds up the process.

Pro Tip #2

When applying the silk wraps, I find it easier to work out from the pinky finger to the thumb and to apply to the non-dominant hand first.

Favorite Products and Accessories

Swiss Silk Tabs – These already have an adhesive side and are pre-cut. Highly rated and very easy to use.
IBD 5 Second Brush-on Gel Resin
Cuticle Oil
Acetone-based Nail Polish Remover
Super Nail Pure Acetone Remover
Double Wall Stainless Steel Bowl – great for warming up an acetone solution and serves as a gorgeous bowl as well
Electric Coffee Mug Warmer – I love this mug and coffee warmer with several heat settings. And it works great for removing your nails.

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XO, Marina

Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor or Registered Dietitian. The information presented is not medical advice. It is purely to share my experiences and opinions based on the linked research. As always, check with a doctor before making any fitness or nutrition changes. The author and blog disclaim liability for any damage, mishap, or injury that may occur from engaging in any activities or ideas from this site.