What Are Full Set Nails?

Are you curious about the perfect manicure and what “full set nails” means in the world of nail fashion? 

Get the flawless finish your hands deserve with a full set nails manicure! Perfect for special events or just a touch of everyday elegance, full set nails deliver a long-lasting, polished look that outshines regular polish.

This guide dive into the ins and outs of full set nails, explaining the process, types, and maintenance so you can decide if it’s the right choice.

Is it your next style statement? Read on to find out!

What Is A Full Set of Nails?

A full set of nails involves applying artificial enhancements like acrylics, gels, or dip powder to natural nails for a durable, stylish look with various design options, adding length and strength.

The Process of Nails Full Set

The process of getting a full set nails typically involves the following steps:

Figure 01. The process of applying full set nails.

Preparation

The nail technician starts by cleaning, trimming, and filing the natural nails. Cuticles may be pushed back or trimmed to ensure a smooth surface for the nail enhancement.

Application of Tips or Forms

If length is desired, the technician will apply tips with glue or use forms at the nail ends where the artificial product will be sculpted.

Applying the Product

Depending on the type of full set chosen (acrylic, gel, or dip powder), the nail technician will apply the product onto the natural nail and/ or tips.

• Acrylic nails: A mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer is applied and shaped.
• Gel nails: A pre-mixed gel is applied and then cured under a UV or LED light.
• Dip powder nails: The nail is painted with a base coat, dipped into the powder, and then sealed with a top coat.

Shaping and Buffing

Once the product is applied and set, the technician shapes the nails into the desired style (e.g., round, square, stiletto) using files and buffers for a smooth finish.

Polishing

The nails are then polished with a base coat, color, and topcoat. Nail art or design may be added at this stage if requested.

Curing

If gel products are used, the nails will need to be cured under a UV or LED lamp after each coat.

After Advice

Finally, the technician provides aftercare advice to maintain the longevity and appearance of the future set nails.

Different Types of Full Nail Sets

A nail bar provides a range of full nail sets services to meet diverse client demands. They may extra treatments to these full sets to define the services clearly and align prices with the value offered. 

Gel Full Set Nails

When getting a full set of gel nails, it's important to ask about the brand of gel used, as there are variations and personal preferences may apply. If you want gel extensions, verify if they're part of the full set pricing, because not all brands provide them. 

The gel nail application is lengthy, involving several coats—base, color, and top—that each require curing under a UV light, taking anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours to complete.

Acrylic Full Set Nails

Acrylic nails involve an overlay made from a mix of powder and liquid monomer applied to the nails, with the option to add extensions. This method is quick since it doén’t need UV light curing, unlike gel polish. 

A full acrylic nail set can be completed in 75 to 120 minutes, and it’s usually cheaper than bia-gel nails, with more cost information available.

Dip Powder Ful Set Nails

Dip powder nails are a modern manicure option offering durability and ease of application. The process includes nail prep, applying a bonding agent, and then dipping the nails into colored powder until the right shade is reached. It’s finished with a sealant for a glossy look.

Typically, a full set of dip powder nails can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Add-Ons To Full Nail Sets

Additional treatments such as nails for both hands and feet. These require a separate request and may involve extra charges and time, as they are not part of the basic package.

• Nails and toenails: A full set typically covers only the hands. Toenails are extra and requies additional cost and time.
• Tips: Adding tips to natural nails in an added cost not usually included in a full set unless specified as “full set with tips”.
• Nail art: Embellishments like gems, glitter, or stickers are additional and charged per nail, but don’t significantly change the service time.
• Paraffin hand wax mask: Often thought to be part of a full set, this moisturizing treatment is an extra service that adds about 30 to 40 minutes to the session.
• Hand massage: A full set may end with a quick lotion application, but an extensive hand massage is not standard and requires extra time.
• Soak: Removing an old set before applying a new one is not part of the full set service and must be requested separately.

When Should You Refrain from Requesting A Full Set of Nails?

There are particular instances when opting for a full set of nails might not be the best choice:

• You only want regular nail polish: Opt for a basic manicure or "buff and paint" instead of a full set.
• You have dry cuticles: Choose moisturizing treatments over a full set to address dryness.
• To fix your nails: Select treatments that strengthen and moisturize damaged nails rather than masking them with a full set.
• You have health-related issues: Consult a doctor before getting acrylics or gel nails if you have health concerns, are pregnant, or awaiting surgery.

Visit the Nail Exams Website to learn more about the Nail Technician Exam and get advice on how to pass the exams and get your Nail Technician License. 

With the Nail Test App, we provide a series of state-by-state and exam-like tests that will prepare you for the Nail Technician Exam.