Acrylic Nails 101: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Next Manicure

The acrylic nails have been a beauty staple since ages, offering strength, length and style versatility. Whether you are new to acrylic nails or considering them for the first time, understanding the process, benefits and features of maintenance is essential. Hence, this guide will help you in knowing everything you would need before the next manicure.
What Are Acrylic nails?
Acrylic nails are artificial nail extensions that are created from a mixture of a liquid monomer and a powdered polymer. This mixture creates a dough like structure that hardens itself when it comes in contact with air giving a strong and durable nail. It is then filed, shaped or polished to the desired look.
Acrylic nails do not require a UV lamp for curing unlike gel nails. This makes it a suitable choice for people looking for long lasting nails that will endure daily activities.
The Acrylic Nail Application Process
Getting acrylic nails done by a professional ensures you get the best results. For the best results, certain basic steps are taken.
1. Nail Preparation
The natural nails are cleaned, filed and buffed. The technician shall first push back the cuticles and remove excess oil in order to help the acrylic adhere properly.
2. Applying Nail Tips (If Needed)
But if longer nails are desired, tips are glued onto the nails using specialized glue before they are shaped to the desired length.
3. Acrylic Application
Using a brush, acrylic powder is mixed with liquid monomer, and applied on each finger. The acrylic is shaped/sculpted before it’s set.
4. Shaping and Buffing
Once the acrylic is dry, buffing and filing is done in order to achieve a realistic shape and smooth finish.
5. Polishing and Designing
Add polish or nail art for a more stylish finish, or simply opt for a natural look with or without a glossy top coat.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Acrylic Nails
There are many advantages and disadvantages that one must consider before choosing acrylic nails.
Benefits:
Long-lasting
Acrylic nails are durable and can last up to three weeks.
Customizable
They can be shaped, colored, or designed in numerous ways.
Great for weak nails
Provides added strength for those with brittle nails.
Easier repair
If a nail breaks, it can be fixed without removing the entire set.
Drawbacks:
Requires maintenance
Regular fills are necessary to maintain the look.
Strong odor
There is a strong smell during the application process.
Possible risk of nail damage
Misapplication and bad removal practices wiping out the natural nail.
Risk of getting allergic reactions
Not everyone has the same tolerance against chemicals.
Taking these factors into consideration can help make up your mind regarding acrylic nails.
Maintenance of Acrylic Nails
To preserve their beauty, acrylic nails are not so forgiving. Use these tips for prolonged wear:
Keep Your Nails Dry
Wearing gloves while you do house chores such as washing dishes is necessary as too much moisture can lead to lifting of the nail which can open possibilities of infections.
Apply Cuticle Oil on a Daily Basis
Consider using car oil every now and then to get rid of dryness, it will help make the acrylics stick on for a longer period.
Regular Filling Appointments
During the natural growing phase of the nails, there will be gaps visible between the acrylic and the cuticle. Filling every two to three weeks keeps the polish on looking fresh.
Finally, do not use nails as tools, the cracks will not levitate or disappear. Opening cans or scratching surfaces with acrylic nails will cause breakage. Rather than doing this, treat them gently.
Harsh expands weak, so be careful with them.
Using any cleaning products that consists of strong chemicals will tamper the strength of the acrylic nails and are best handled while wearing gloves.
How to Remove Acrylic Nails Safely?
All of these methods remove acrylic nails without damaging the natural nails. Here’s a description of a safe procedure to follow:
1. Soaking Acrylic Nails In Acetone
Fill a bowl with pure acetone and soak your nails for 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, place acetone soaked cotton balls on each nail and wrap them in foil.
2. Removing Nails Gently
When the acrylic nails begin to soften, use a cuticle pusher to scrape it off gently. In cases where soaking the acrylic nails in acetone does not seem to work, try soaking them for a few minutes longer. With sufficient time these nails should come off with ease.
3. Buffing And Moisturizing
After removals polish your nails by buffing the surface of your nails to smooth them out. It’s best to restore moisture and avoid the nails from going brittle by applying cuticle oil or hand’s cream.
Comparison Between Acrylic Nails And Other Nail Enhancements
Out of the various nail enhancements acrylic nails are one of the most well known. This is how they compare to other well known enhancements:
Feature |
Acrylic Nails |
Gel Nails |
Dip Powder Nails |
Durability |
Very strong |
Flexible but sturdy |
Long-lasting |
Application Time |
1-2 hours |
45 minutes – 1 hour |
30-45 minutes |
Removal Process |
Soak in acetone |
Soak in acetone |
Soak in acetone |
Maintenance |
Requires fills every 2-3 weeks |
Requires fills every 2-3 weeks |
Requires fills every 3-4 weeks |
There's an advantage to each of the above options, meaning it really comes down to personal choices and personal way of life.
Conclusion
Acrylic nails not only improve the appearance of your nails, but also make them stronger. They can last for weeks if cared for properly, Irrespective of whether it is a simple style or complex design, acrylics can do it all. Cheryl's Company should be your first choice when looking for a professional and best in class acrylic nail service. You will receive the best customer care along with proper maintenance of your nails. Moreover, expert nail professionals guarantee perfect application accompanied by long-lasting results making every one of your manicure services unique.