Aside from wanting a beautiful and shiny coat of nail polish, many individuals also book manicure appointments in order to get a specific nail length and shape that they may not be able to achieve naturally. Acrylic manicures are one of the most popular manicure treatments for this goal, but how much do you really know about this popular manicure type? Here’s everything you need to know about acrylic manicures!
What is an Acrylic Manicure?
An acrylic manicure is a manicure treatment that lengthens the nails by overlaying and shaping a paste. This paste is made with a special blend of liquid and powder polymers that create a strong bond with the natural nails. When it dries and hardens, this powder adds impressive length to the nails, while also acting as an extra layer of protection against everyday wear and tear.
What’s the Difference Between Acrylic Manicure and Gel Manicure?
There are a few differences between acrylic nails and gel nails:
- While both acrylic manicures and gel manicures offer enhanced protection for the nails, acrylics are significantly stronger and more durable compared to gel nails, mainly due to their unique formulation.
- Acrylic manicures can also increase the length of the nails in a way that gel manicures can’t. The acrylic paste can be extended and shaped to your preferences to leave you with your ideal nail length and style.
- Acrylics don’t need to be cured underneath a UV lamp the way gel nails do. In this way, you can rest assured that the skin around your nails isn’t being damaged during your manicure appointment.
What are the Steps Involved in an Acrylic Manicure?
The steps involved in an acrylic manicure will slightly vary depending on the salon that you go to, but here are the general steps you can anticipate:
- The nail technician will remove any old nail polish from your nails.
- Your nails will be trimmed and shaped to your preference. The surface of your nails will also be buffed to create a better surface for polish application.
- Your cuticles will be gently pushed back and trimmed if needed.
- If you’re opting for increased nail length, tips or nail forms may be applied to and formed around your nails.
- The nail technician will create the acrylic nail paste and apply it over your nails before shaping and sculpting it to your preference. After the acrylics have dried and set, the technician will often file, buff, and shape them to ensure that there are no imperfections.
- A base coat will be applied, followed by several coats of color or gel polish. This will then be sealed in with a layer of top coat.
- Once your nail polish has dried, the nail technician may massage some hand cream or lotion into your hands and nails to ensure that they’re nourished and well-hydrated.
How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?
Acrylic nails can last anywhere between six to eight weeks, but they will need to be touched up and filled in every few weeks, depending on how quickly your nails grow. Here are some tips to maintain your acrylic nails for as long as possible:
- Avoid picking at or peeling your acrylic nails, which will not only ruin the look of your manicure but also compromise the health of your natural nails.
- Keep your acrylic nails protected by wearing gloves during certain activities, such as household cleaning and dishwashing.
- Moisturize your acrylic nails by massaging a moisturizer or cuticle oil into them regularly.
Are Acrylics Bad for Your Nails?
Acrylic nails aren’t necessarily bad for your nails, so long as you take care of them. This means having them regularly filled, keeping them dry and protected, and making sure that they’re removed by a well-trained professional. Failure to do any of these things may compromise the appearance of your manicure, potentially even damaging your natural nails.
How Much Does an Acrylic Manicure Cost?
With acrylics being a type of nail extension, you can easily avail of this nail treatment at your nearest salon. However, if you want to go with a more convenient option, then you can also book Luce’s at-home manicure service and enjoy an acrylic manicure for $98.
The Takeaway
Acrylic manicures are great for individuals who want to improve the length and shape of their nails, while also keeping their natural nails protected. While this type of manicure comes with some potential issues, all of this can be mitigated by adopting some lifestyle habits and ensuring that your acrylic nails are properly removed. Acrylics may be hard to do on your own, but most nail salons and at-home nail services offer them to clients.
