Celebrity nail artists sound off on the best of the best in today’s world of trending nail extensions.

What it entails: According to celebrity manicurist Mar y Sol Inzerillo—her clients include Oprah and Angelina Jolie—acrylic nails are made using a liquid monomer and powder polymer thatare applied to the nail using a Kolinsky brush. “Once combined, small beads are applied on the nail, nail tip or form, and then sculpted into a preferred shape.”

Who it’s for: Lauren London’s nail artist, Jenny Bui, says acrylic nails stand the test of time. “These nails ensure perfect structure and are resistant against breakage,” she says. If you prefer thick, sturdy nails, these are the ones for you.

Artist’s tip: ”Acrylic nails last virtually forever if you get them filled,” says Selena Gomez’s nail guru Tom Bachik.

What it entails: “Gel-X is also known as soft gel tips,” says Bachik. “The client chooses from a selection of pre-made tips. Generally, a soft gel will be applied to the underside of the nail, pressed to the natural nail and then cured with UV light. This adheres the tip to the natural nail. When cured, the nail is filed into the desired shape and length.”

Who it’s for: Julie Kandalec, who’s created many looks on Jessica Chastain, says this extension is best for those who want shape and strength in one step. “These tips come in many lengths and sizes, like long, square, short, and even intricate cutouts.”

Artist’s tip: “This method cuts nail service time in half,” says Megan Fox’s manicurist Brittney Boyce.

What it entails: “CND Plexigel consists of two gel products called Shaper and Builder,” says Kandalec. “Shaper repairs cracks while Builder sculpts and builds. Both are brushed onto the nail, and then another bead of product is dropped onto the center of the nail to create a stronger shape. It settles before curing for a glossy extension.”

Who it’s for: Best for those who struggle keeping nail enhancements on and want more strength than a gel manicure, “Plexigel nails apply clear, so they’re great for nail art,” Kandalec says. “Plus, they’re ideal for anyone who dislikes the smell of acrylic.”

Artist’s tip: Kandalec says Plexigel should only be removed by a nail professional to avoid excess damage.

What it entails: “ORLY Builder Gel is a sculpting gel that’s easy to apply,” says Boyce, adding that these extensions are her favorite to use. “The formula comes in both a clear and concealer shade and applies like a soft gel, but wears like a hard gel. It also has a self-leveling formula that’s not sticky or messy and can be easily removed by soaking in acetone.”

Who it’s for: There are two versions of this extension: clear and concealer.Boyce says, “Use the clear version to make the perfect set of glass nails or the new concealer for a flawless set of milky coverage that looks amazing on any skin tone, light or dark.”

Artist’s tip: According to Boyce, these extensions can be built out with help from perfect forms or fast forms.

What it entails: “Press-on nail tips come pre-painted and ready to be shaped with a nail file to attain a perfect fit to the cuticle,” says Kandelac. Unlike the flimsy, low-quality press-ons popular in the ‘80s, “today’s are durable and can be applied with either double-stick tape for temporary wear—one to four days—or nail glue for up to two weeks.”

Who it’s for: If you’re short on time or don’t have the patience for a manicure, press-ons may be your best bet. “Today, press-ons are very comparable to gel extensions, but at a fraction of the cost, and they only take 10 minutes to apply,” explains Boyce.

Artist’s tip: “Press-on nails that are made with a hard gel may last longer than others,” says Inzerillo.

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