Some women are blessed with strong nails, but not me. My nails break if I grow them out. Fortunately, I can always count on the magic of acrylics.
Acrylic nails are great for anyone who wants long nails, but can’t get their ideal nail shape or shape on their own. But before you head to
Hollywood Nails salon to get acrylic nails, you need to know that they’re not without challenges. In fact, if done incorrectly, these things can damage your natural nails.
What Are Acrylic Nails?
Put simply, acrylic nails are a mix of liquid and powder to make a blob that is then shaped onto your nails using a brush. After your acrylic nails are shaped, each one is then painted with base coat, followed by nail polish color, and finally top coat. Nails are then allowed to dry using a fan.
A nail technician will use nail forms or put on tips to achieve a more natural look. It’s safe to get acrylics frequently but you need to make sure your nail technician is properly trained in applying them. Acrylic nails are ideal for people who want more length or change the shape of their nails.
If you’re wondering whether or not acrylic nails require a lot of maintenance, the answer is yes. You’ll need to go back to your nail salon every two to three weeks to get your acrylic nails filled. However, a set can be worn for up to 8 weeks before they should be removed. To remove them, each nail is soaked in acetone until the acrylic softens.
Acrylic Nails vs. Gel Nails
While both acrylic nails and gel nails are a great way to try out different trends, the right style and technique can vary for each person. Let’s break down the differences between these two:
Gel nails require a 3-step process. The first step involves brushing of the base coat, nail polish, and top coat. The nail is placed under UV light after each coat, for up to 2 minutes to cure. Then once dry, the layer of gel polish is applied and hardens. The final result is glossy nails that look freshly manicured.
Although gel and acrylic nails provide nearly the same results, there are key differences with each option. Gel nails usually consist of brushing coats of polish on your nails then placed under a UV lamp. The process is a lot faster compared to acrylic, and the nails have a more natural look to them. Gel nails can last 2 weeks without chipping.
Acrylic nails have a hard, protective layer due to the liquid and powder hybrid mixture. They are a lot more durable so you don’t have to worry about cracking or breaking your nails. But it doesn’t mean they are foolproof and if you’re not careful they can break.
They last much longer than gel nails but you do need to get them filled every 2-3 weeks. After you remove them, you’re often left with nails that may be slightly weaker than what they were.
Caring for Your Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are nice to look at and can last a very long time. But these things also need a lot of TLC.
Proper care will keep them looking great for a while, and prevent injury, potential deterioration and even nail infections.
The first thing to keep in mind is to treat acrylic nails gently. Avoid using your nails to pry things open or lift heavy items.
Next, keep them dry. Don’t expose acrylic nails to water as this may lead to lifting and fungal growth. It will also cause the acrylic glue to loosen.
Make sure to keep the skin surrounding your nails healthy. You can do this by moisturizing your hands and making sure you are eating a balanced diet.
Lastly, wash your hands regularly using antibacterial soap and wipe it dry after.