Mikita Jhaveri discovers that enhanced nails are becoming an every day grooming must for women on the go.

The latest in nail enhancement technology has transformed the manicure industry. Artificial nails no longer have that fake look that transforms an elegant hand into a weapon-like talon. Instead, advancements in acrylic, gel and soak-off gel nails are making it easier for women to achieve a natural, polished look with minimum effort, even if they have busy work schedules. Chilly Yeung, who has been a nail technician at ManiPedi, owned by Christine Cheng, for over seven years, reports that office ladies, OLs, are the salon’s main clientele.

Nail enhancements come in three forms: acrylic, gel and soak-off gel. Acrylic nails are the oldest form of nail extensions. They are formed by the chemical reaction of a liquid and powder to form a rigid structure that dries into a hard resin, binding to the nail. This lasts three to four weeks. Acrylic nails are not as glossy, and frequent usage tends to damage the fingernail. Helen Leung, owner of Rainbow Nails, notes that they are also thicker than other nail enhancements, making nail looks slightly lumpy.

Fret not, because there’s an even better nail solution.