Solar nails are a type of artificial nail, similar to acrylics. They have the appearance of a French manicure, with a pink nail bed and white tips. Some nail salons simply refer to regular acrylic nails in a French manicure style as solar nails, but others use a slightly different formula that offers a number of improvements over standard acrylic artificial nails.

Solar nails are often more expensive than acrylics, but they do not have to be filled as often. They should be touched up every three weeks, as opposed to every two weeks for acrylics. Solar nails are more durable than traditional acrylic products, and do not discolor in the sun or in tanning salons, whereas standard acrylics have a tendency to turn yellow over time. Some people find that solar nails have a glossier appearance than other artificial nail types that do not dull between fillings. While solar nails are resistant to cracking and chipping, it is important not to let them grow too long between fillings, or they may become more susceptible to breakage.

Acrylic artificial nails are sometimes applied as an extension on the end of the natural nail, while solar nails are always applied directly to the nail bed. They are applied in two steps, after the nails are prepared. Before solar nails are applied, the natural nails are cleaned, buffed, and filed to allow the artificial nail material to adhere. Next, the white portion is applied to the entire nail, then the pink part is painted onto the nail bed, leaving the tips white.

While taking care of one's natural nails is always the healthiest option, it is time consuming and labor intensive. With solar artificial nails, one does not have to worry about being easy on the nails, as they are very strong. Also, it is not necessary to use nail polish at all because of their French manicure appearance, unlike some other artificial nail products.

It is still important, however, to look after the health of your natural nails. A skilled manicurist will take care not to let artificial nail products touch your skin, as they can cause irritation or allergy. Also, make sure your manicurist uses a hand file to prepare your nails rather than an electrical tool, and lets old artificial nails soak off gently in acetone rather than prying them off.