Nail Question from My Mom

[#1]

I'm not exactly sure how to help her with this issue, so I figured I'd ask for some advice on here.  I've heard of people having acrylic overlays added to their natural nails (no false tip applied) to protect them from their work environment or to help keep them strong due to their work.  My boyfriend's mom has really long and strong nails, but had the overlays applied to protect them, especially since she is a hair stylist.

My mom works in a factory that produces various car parts for Japan vehicles.  The machine she works with now is really rough on her nails.  Would getting acrylic overlays help her maintain her nails?  Or would something else work better, such as the gel nails that are quite popular. 

[#2]

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[#3]

Thank you everyone for your replies! My mom and dad left this morning for an overnight trip to Gatlinburg and Dollywood, so I'll have to share this with mom when they return. I'm not familiar with silk wraps. Mom and I may have to do some research about that, and look into pricing. If she gets anything done to her nails, it'll probably be at the beauty shop my boyfriend's mom works at since I've had a pedicure there before,.