Acrylic Nails – How To At Home Guide

Acrylic nails are a combination of a liquid monomer and a powder polymer that creates a hard, protective layer over your natural nails.

Your nail technician will mix a liquid with a powder and brush the mixture onto your nails. They’ll usually cover your entire nail, though sometimes they’ll just add tips or a flexible form that they can sculpt to extend your nails.acrylic nails don’t require a LED or UV lamp but harden naturally when exposed to air. When applied, acrylic forms a hard, clear shell that shields your nail beds, and thereafter a nail colour of your choice is painted over. They are perfect for people who want the look of long nails but have trouble growing out their own nails or have weak nails that break easily. However nails are strong while the acrlic is in place.

acrylic nails

How long do Acrylic nails last?

Over time, acrylics grow out with your nails. Failing to keep up with your manicures may lead to more long-term damage to your nail beds. Every two to three weeks, you should return to the salon to have your nails filled in. Try to avoid prolonged exposure to water and wear protective gloves for household cleaning.

acrylic nails

Are acrylic nails bad for you?

To get your acrylic nails to stick, the surface of your natural nail bed must be filed until they feel rough. This thins your natural nails, making them weaker overtime. Furthermore the chemicals used to apply acrylic nails are notoriously unhealthy and include such offenders as resins and formaldehyde. Risk of infection is a common area of concern for those tempted to try acrylics. Avoid getting acrylic extensions if your nails and skin are prone to chipping or splitting. Dirt and bacteria could get trapped between your natural nail and acrylic nail, catalysing unwanted infections.

For at home infills

Kiss Acrylic Sculpture Kit

Create multiple Salon Looks using the French Acrylic Kit. Several different applicators for the easiest French Acrylic Application.

When you decide to have your acrylic nails removed, your nail technician will remove them quite easily. Should involve no forcing or prying, after soaking your hands in nail polish remover for 15 minutes.

Salon visit

If you choose to have artificial nails applied in a salon, take steps to minimize the risks:

  • Stick to salons that display a current state license, and work only with technicians also licensed by the state board.
  • Make sure your nail technician properly sterilizes all tools used during your treatment. Furthermore ensure they  wash his or her hands between customers.
  • Request a new nail file or consider bringing one from home.
  • Return to the salon every two to three weeks for maintenance.

To remove acrylic nails at home try to avoid filing off the acrylic using sharp implements or an abrasive file, as this affects the nail bed. Instead lightly buff the acrylic to break the surface, then place a cotton pad which has been lightly soaked in acetone over the finger and wrap the nail in foil.

Acrylic nails could be dangerous and cause nail problems if the wrong products are used or if they are removed incorrectly.