Understanding Gel Overlay Nails: What You Need to Know

Question
I just got my nails done today and I'm a little confused.  I asked for acrylic w/gel overlay.
The tech first put the tips on, then she applied this white powder mixed w/a liquid, then she filed the nails and shaped them, then she applied this clear nail polish and had me put it under a lamp.  It seemed like I had an acrylic
procedure done. I hope I didnt get ripped off.
I heard good things about this salon. Please advise.  TIA!!! Gina

Answer
Hi Gina,

If you asked for acrylic with a gel overlay, it seems that is very likely exactly what you recieved.
Acrylic is applied with a brush that is first dipped in liquid, then dipped in powder to create a ball. That is then applied to either a natural nail, or a natural nail with a tip extension.  
A UV Gel overlay, however, may be questioned.
UV Gel is NOT a runny liquid like a polish. THAT would be a UV Sealant and not the same. This is to prvent acrylic nails (particularly cheap and illegal toxic ones) from yellowing.
True UV Gel is thick like hair gel and there is absolutely NO powder used at any point.

Please refer to these two pages on my site that describe the differences between enhancements and the other page that describes how to find a great tech who will not damage your nails, nor use toxic illegal products on you.
http://ongles-chez-victoria.tripod.com/victoriasnails/id16.html
http://ongles-chez-victoria.tripod.com/victoriasnails/id18.html

hope that this helps.
best regards
Victoria