The World's Biggest (and Best!) Nail Knowledge Centre

How can we help?

Search for answers you are looking for.

Can u tell me the story about dual forms and upper forms?

You are here:

144 Views

Dual forms, also known as upper forms, fast forms and ‘pop it’s’, they have had many names over the years and have a pretty cool story in the world of nail enhancements! They were created as a time-saving and user-friendly alternative to traditional nail forms and sculpting techniques. They have been around for a very long time but have recently become very on trend and are now available in various lengths, shapes and structures. Here’s how it goes:

Once upon a time, applying acrylics or gels involved a lot of skill and effort, requiring nail techs to meticulously sculpt each nail from scratch using forms or tips. But then, along came dual forms—pre-shaped plastic molds that act like a “nail press.” You apply the acrylic or gel into the form, press it onto the natural nail, let it cure, and voila! Once you pop the form off, you’re left with a beautifully sculpted, smooth nail.

The beauty of dual forms is that they cut down on filing time since the surface is already super smooth. They’re a game changer for anyone who wants salon-quality nails in less time, without needing advanced sculpting skills. So, whether you’re a pro or a DIY enthusiast, dual forms have made nail enhancement easier and faster for everyone!

Banner Image Credit: Andreea Ignat

Shopping Basket
en_GBEnglish
\n

The nail that is produced by the nail matrix and covers the end of the finger or toe.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_45eb09e37877670f7fedeadbb322551b":"

Enhancement<\/div>
\n

A term used to describe any artificial nail, including acrylics, gels, and nail wraps.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_bd6a6a1abd1d267eb92dfeaa16f99e28":"

Nail forms<\/div>
\n

Nail forms - adhesive strips or reusable plastic forms that attach to the finger to help shape and extend the natural nail.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_5c525ee1d52bc291bccb4abb30f8d973":"

Nail technician<\/div>
\n

Someone who is qualified to provide a wide range of nail services.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_69660afc724640a74f9dd6bc238b21d1":"

Acrylics<\/div>
A huge family of chemicals that create plastics. It was, for many years, descriptive of the liquid monomer and powder polymer system of nail enhancements. However, many nail products are acrylics so the term is not accurate.<\/div>","cmtt_18181bb5d8b564d8528c27ba7c7a6058":"
Forms<\/div>
\n

A type of reusable template that is placed under the free edge of the natural nail to guide the application of acrylic or gel product, helping to create a consistent and symmetrical shape.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_4eb428598c1d8f289e6897779124e77d":"

UV Gel<\/div>
\n

A nail product that cures (or polymerizes) under a UV lamp.
There are various types of UV gels, categorized by the way they can be removed, or by the way they can be used.

<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_6e4b2c42b82604c2f739d01368901b8a":"

Cure \/ Curing<\/div>
\n

This is the term used to describe the polymerization process for the acrylics (whether uv gels or l&p systems) used in nail coatings. A 'proper cure' is what should be achieved which is when, at least, 80% of the coating has been polymerised. Anything less than this is considered to be 'under-cured' and can cause an allergic reaction. \"Over-curing\" would be when the nail coating is cured in a lamp that has a stronger output than what the manufacturer recommends, and it will make the nail coating brittle.<\/p>\n<\/div>"}}; -->