I am going to settle this debate once and for all. Should nail technicians use hotfix rhinestones for nail art or no hotfix rhinestones? Hotfix stones are cheaper, available at craft stores nationwide and look exactly same, right? You are absolutely right! (Almost)
But doesn’t that sound a little suspect? I mean what's the point of no hotfix if they cost more, aren’t available in stores (except Kreativ Nail Supply) and look exactly the same?
First, we need to understand what hotfix even means. I'll use HF and no-HF as abbreviations. HF rhinestones are coated with a heat-sensitive glue on the back. Grab your stone collection and take a look for yourself. This glue is obsolete for nails because we can't use the recommended heat press on someone's hands to activate the glue on the back.
HF rhinestones are only recommended for fabric. You now have a stone with a layer of glue that isn't compatible with acrylic or the nail glue. You've put yourself behind the 8-ball trying to glue over glue. This weakens the bond between nail glue and rhinestone. Obviously, you can still use HF Rhinestones on nails. Girls do it everyday B.
So what is the purpose of No HF rhinestones? First off, its plain back allows nail glue to adhere to the entire back. On a HF rhinestone, the glue is not properly adhered to the entire back since there is a layer of unnecessary glue. Secondly, and probably most importantly, the No-HF rhinestones are enhanced with platinum foiling for extra brilliance and protection.
There you have it. The difference is that HF rhinestones were made for fabric and to withstand high heat to secure the pre-applied glue. No-HF rhinestones shine more and are more compatible for nail art since you can glue them down to the acrylic nail properly. So it's really a matter of preference! HF are cheaper, No-HF work better for nail art. Here at Kreativ Nail Supply, the only stones we carry are Swarovski Flat Back No-HF Rhinestones. You now know the facts about your rhinestones and are free to apply whatever stones you choose to bring your nail creations to life! Subscribe to my blog!