The Beginner’s Guide to Acrylic Nails
“Read this before you go Unreal”
Acrylic nails have been around for decades, but they’ve had a resurgence in recent years thanks to a combination of celebs, Instagram, and our collective nail art obsession. Great for those looking to add length and strength to their nails, acrylics can also create a larger, more evenly shaped canvas for those who love intricate nail designs. Thinking of trying out the look? We asked Hannah Lee, Sally Hansen nail expert and professional manicurist, to break down the process, how to keep them in tip-top shape, and all the other good-to-knows.
What Are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are basically a combination of a liquid monomer and a polymer powder, which are merged into a flexible combination of materials. The application of this mixture to the natural nail is personalized. The monomer is polymerized in the air causing the result to be the increased strength, length, and thickness of the nail.
How Are Acrylic Nails Different Than Gel Nails?
Acrylic nails are created using a liquid monomer and a powder polymer for the perfect combination of durability and visual appeal. This method strengthens the nails and lets them have a variety of shapes and lengths. In contrast, gel nails are most often made of a UV or LED light responsive gel and hardened under UV or LED light, which results in a more natural looking and shiny finish that is flexible.
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Cherry Acrylic Nails
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Cow Print Nails
Navy And Gold Nail
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4. Sunset Acrylic Nail
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Are Acrylic Nails Safe?
“Although I hate to admit it, acrylics have a bad reputation, but they are not any more harmful to your nails than other artificial nails,” the manicurist said. Nevertheless, there are still negative sides to acrylics—their harmful effects become more aggravated when not cared for as they should. “Taking off the artificial nails can damage the natural nails’ condition, but if executed properly, the experience will not contribute to the damaged nails’ condition, which is why professional removal is essential,” says the expert. Besides gentle removal, another great way you can maintain the health of your natural nails is to get them some fresh air every now and then in the middle of the appointments. “The practice would generally be better if you kept off from acrylic nails for three to six months between visits to allow your nails to rejuvenate,” Lee suggests.
How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?
“Acrylics should last six to eight weeks with a fill needed about every two to three weeks, depending on your nail growth,” says Lee. Not only does getting a fill—a.k.a. a touchup between the bottom of the nail and the cuticle—improve the appearance of the manicure, but it also helps it last longer. “Fills are very important because once your nails start to grow is when lifting begins to happen,” says Lee.
How Can You Make Acrylics Last Longer?
Contrary to popular belief, you can still use your hands when you have acrylics; however, Lee recommends wearing gloves while doing things like cleaning. “Also, use moisturizer and cuticle oil to keep your hands and nails healthy. I love Sally Hansen’s Vitamin E Cuticle Oil,”.
As with any treatment, do your research on the salon—the right care and attention to detail can help extend the life of your manicure in the long run. Beyond that, the biggest enemies to acrylics are wearing them beyond their lifespan and not keeping up with fills, says Lee.
What’s the Best Way to Remove Acrylics?
Whatever you do, resist the urge to pluck them off yourself. “The best and safest way to remove acrylics is to go to your nail professional to get them properly removed,” stresses Lee. “It’s important to not try to peel them off yourself or remove them in an unsafe way because it can cause damage.” It takes a bit more time and effort than typical polish removal, but it’s worth it. “Your nail tech will most likely use an electric file to remove the top layer of the acrylics. Then, your nails are typically wrapped in foil with an acetone-filled cotton ball inside to soak for about 15 minutes. A cuticle pusher is used to remove any excess acrylic followed by cuticle oil to rehydrate the nails.” Then, you’re good to go—with your natural nails mercifully still intact.
The Best Products for Acrylic Nails
Essie Gel Couture Top Coat
Clarins Hand and Nail Treatment Cream
HUM NUTRITION Killer Nails® Supplement
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