component of some paint and nails

2023 Tutorial on Acrylic Nails – Guide to Achieve Beautiful and Long-Lasting Nails

Acrylic nails have long been a popular option for those wanting to add length and strength to their natural nails. Whether you are looking to achieve a classic French manicure or experiment with bold and colorful designs, acrylics can offer endless possibilities. The process of applying acrylic nails may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done easily at home. Check out these steps to achieve long-lasting acrylic nails.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are a type of artificial nail that is made by applying a mixture of liquid and powder to your natural nails. This mixture forms a hard, durable layer that is then shaped and polished to create the desired look. Acrylic nails can be applied in a variety of shapes and lengths, and can be customized with different colors, patterns, and embellishments.

Materials Needed

Before you begin the process of applying acrylic nails, it is important to make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. Here is a list of items you will need:

  • Acrylic nail kit (includes acrylic liquid, acrylic powder, and a brush)
  • Nail file
  • Cuticle pusher
  • Nail buffer
  • Nail polish remover
  • Cotton balls or pads
  • Paper towels
  • Nail clippers
  • Nail glue
  • Optional: nail tips, nail primer, and top coat

Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have gathered all your materials, it’s time to start the process of applying acrylic nails. Follow these steps carefully to achieve the best results:

Step 1: Prepare Your Nails

Before you begin, make sure your nails are clean and dry. Remove any old nail polish with acetone-based nail polish remover and cotton balls or pads. Use nail clippers to trim your nails to the desired length, and file them into the desired shape. Be sure to file in one direction to avoid damaging the nails.

Step 2: Push Back Your Cuticles

Use a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles. This will create more space on your nails for the acrylic to adhere to. Be careful not to push too hard or damage the delicate skin around your nails.

Step 3: Apply Nail Tips (Optional)

If you want to add extra length to your nails, you can apply nail tips before applying the acrylic mixture. Choose tips that match the shape and size of your natural nails, and use nail glue to attach them to the tips of your nails. Trim the tips to the desired length using nail clippers, and file them into shape.

Step 4: Apply Nail Primer (Optional)

If you are using nail tips, it is recommended to apply a nail primer to help the acrylic adhere better. Apply a small amount of primer to each nail tip, and let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Mix the Acrylic

Now it’s time to mix the acrylic liquid and powder. Follow the instructions on the kit carefully, as the ratio of liquid to powder may vary depending on the brand. Use the brush included in the kit to mix the two components together until they form a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 6: Apply the Acrylic

Using the brush, apply a small amount of acrylic mixture to the back of the nail tip (if you are using tips) or directly onto your natural nails. Be sure to apply the mixture evenly and smoothly, starting at the base of the nail and working your way towards the tip. Repeat this process on each nail, but work quickly to avoid the mixture drying out.

Step 7: Shape and Buff the Acrylic

Once the acrylic mixture has dried, use a nail file to shape and smooth out any rough edges or bumps. Be careful not to file too much, as this can weaken the nails. Next, use a nail buffer to gently buff the surface of the nails until they are smooth and shiny.

Step 8: Apply Top Coat (Optional)

For added protection and shine, you can apply a top coat of clear nail polish over the acrylic nails. Be sure to let it dry completely before using your hands to avoid smudging or chipping.

And that’s it! You have successfully applied acrylic nails at home. With proper care and maintenance, your new nails should last for several weeks before needing to be filled in or removed.

Tips for Maintaining Your Acrylic Nails

To keep your acrylic nails looking their best, here are some tips for maintaining them:

  • Avoid exposing your nails to harsh chemicals or excessive water, as this can cause the acrylic to lift or chip.
  • Wear gloves when doing household chores or working with your hands to protect your nails.
  • Moisturize your cuticles and nails regularly to prevent dryness and cracking.
  • Avoid biting or picking at your nails, as this can cause damage to both the acrylic and your natural nails.
  • Get your nails filled every two to three weeks to maintain their strength and appearance.

FAQs

  1. How long do acrylic nails last? Acrylic nails can last for several weeks if properly maintained, but it is recommended to have them filled in every two to three weeks to keep them looking their best.
  2. Can I remove acrylic nails myself? While it is possible to remove acrylic nails yourself at home, it is recommended to have them removed by a professional nail technician to avoid damaging your natural nails.
  3. Will acrylic nails damage my natural nails? If applied and maintained properly, acrylic nails should not cause damage to your natural nails. However, if they are removed improperly or left on for too long without being filled in, they can weaken and damage your natural nails.
  4. Can I paint my acrylic nails? Yes, you can paint your acrylic nails with regular nail polish. Just be sure to let the polish dry completely before using your hands to avoid smudging or chipping.

7 BEST BIRTHDAY NAIL SET IDEAS WITH LASTING QUALITY

Calling all birthday nail enthusiasts with a birthday coming up! Ready to ditch the chip worries and rock a stunning manicure that lasts? Look no further! We’ve curated 7 of the best birthday nail set ideas specifically designed for birthday nails, ensuring both eye-catching designs and long-lasting wear. Get ready to celebrate your special day with fabulous nails that won’t quit!

OUR TOP PICKS

BEST POLISH: ESSIE GEL COUTURE LONGWEAR NAIL POLISH + TOP COAT KIT

If you’re aiming for a gel manicure look without the UV drying light, Essie Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish is an excellent choice. This polish, which has a thick, non-dripping formula, applies like regular polish and dries to a hard, glossy finish that mimics a professional salon manicure. We wore these nails for over two weeks and experienced minimal chipping, comparable to professional gel manicures. Removal is straightforward with acetone, leaving your nails healthy and undamaged.

While lamp-cured gel polishes dry faster, Essie Gel Couture takes about 15 minutes to fully dry. However, its staying power is impressive, and we loved the vibrant colors and the well-preserved condition of our nails after removal. If you want a gel-like manicure without the need for a UV lamp, this polish is the best option.

  • Shades: 1
  • Dry Time: 15 minutes
  • Lamp Included: No

BEST FOR TRAVEL: LE MINI MACARON LE MAXI DELUXE GEL MANICURE SET

The Le Mini Macaron compact kit is ideal for on-the-go manicures. We gave it top marks for ease of use, drying time, finished appearance, and nail health post-removal. Despite gel kits often being intimidating for beauty newbies, this kit from Le Mini Macaron is user-friendly and fun, even for beginners. The gel lacquer dries quickly with the included LED lamp, leaving nails glossy and hard in just one minute. However, the travel-friendly lamp is small, so you’ll need to dry your thumb separately.

While we loved the quick-drying, glossy finish, the polish began peeling within a few days and was completely gone soon after. Longer-lasting results might be achieved by using a nail-prepper product, applying thinner coats, or drying nails for a longer time. Despite the short staying power, our nails were not damaged, making this kit an excellent travel choice.

  • Shades: 2
  • Dry Time: 1 minute
  • Lamp Included: Yes

BEST VALUE: GELLEN GEL NAIL POLISH KIT

For a more comprehensive option, the Gellen Gel Starter Kit is a great choice. We awarded this kit perfect scores for ease of use and were impressed with the 12 included bottles of polish, various nail embellishments, grooming tools, and UV lamp. The instructions recommend drying each coat for 60 seconds under the light, but we found our nails were still tacky after a minute. Extending the drying time to 90 seconds yielded better results.

Once painted and dried, we loved the appearance of our gel manicures. The colors were vibrant, and the polish dried smooth with a glossy finish. However, the lacquer began to chip around day six and was completely peeled off by day eight, making soak-off removal unnecessary. While we wish the polish lasted longer, this feature-rich kit offers great value.

  • Shades: 12
  • Dry Time: 90 seconds
  • Lamp Included: Yes

BEST FOR BEGINNERS: SALLY HANSEN SALON PRO GEL STARTER KIT

If you’re new to gel nails, Sally Hansen’s beginner-friendly Salon Starter Kit is perfect for you. This kit earned a perfect score for ease of use, thanks to its simple three-step process and lightning-fast drying time. Curing your nails with the included LED lamp takes only about 30 seconds.

Once dried, our nails were smooth, super shiny, and hard without any stickiness. Although the kit comes with only one color, additional bottles can be purchased separately. Despite the promise of up to two weeks of wear, our manicures didn’t last very long. The gel began to peel when we cleaned around the house, even with gloves on. This kit may not be ideal for those who work with their hands, but it’s a great option for anyone looking to try gel nails at home.

  • Shades: 1
  • Dry Time: 30 seconds
  • Lamp Included: Yes

BEST BUDGET: SENSATIONAIL GEL STARTER KIT

Looking for a budget-friendly option? The SensatioNail Gel Starter Kit is a solid choice. The instructions can be a bit confusing, so we recommend reading through them thoroughly before starting. While this kit wasn’t the easiest to use initially, the process should be smoother the second time around. We were pleasantly surprised by how quickly the lacquer dried with the included LED lamp, but for the best results, we suggest applying thinner layers of paint and taking your time.

The brand claims up to two weeks of wear, but we noticed chipping after about a week—slightly longer than regular polish but not as durable as a professional gel manicure. Although this affordable kit comes with only one polish color, you can purchase additional bottles individually to expand your collection.

  • Shades: 1
  • Dry Time: 3 minutes
  • Lamp Included: Yes

BEST FOR NAIL CARE: RED CARPET MANICURE PRO 45 STARTER KIT

If you prioritize skincare, it’s important to care for your nail beds and cuticles too. This comprehensive kit includes everything from cuticle oil to sealing top and base coats, along with cleansers, foil wraps, cuticle pushers, and more. The gel hardened into a shiny gloss on our nails in just 45 seconds and stayed smooth with minimal chipping for nearly two weeks.

We did notice that the brushes were a bit uneven and frayed, making it challenging to cover all the edges perfectly. However, with a steady hand, we applied the glossy shades, confident that our nails and skin were protected. After removing the polish two weeks later, we were pleased to find our nails as strong as ever.

  • Shades: 1
  • Dry Time: 45 seconds
  • Lamp Included: Yes

BEST OVERALL: MOROVAN NAIL KIT

Morovan’s Poly Gel Kit earned perfect scores for drying time, finished look, staying power, ease of removal, and nail integrity post-removal. We only marked it down for ease of use due to a slight learning curve. However, the instructions were thorough and easy to follow, and the illustrated how-to booklet was very helpful.

This set includes everything needed for a professional-level manicure, plus some fun embellishments and extras. It comes with eight polish shades, including six solid opaques and two ombrés. The kit also includes a primer, a dehydrator, a base coat, a top coat, an LED lamp, and various tools for grooming your nails and cuticles.

The most challenging component was the nail extensions, as the kit includes extension gel and shaping foil to help you create your desired length and shape. Once the gel was applied, the drying process was smooth and straightforward.

After two weeks, only two extensions had fallen off, and the stunning color and shine remained. When it was time to remove the polish, the gel came off easily with the help of a scraping tool. If you’re up for the challenge of DIY gel extensions and want a long-lasting manicure, this kit is an excellent choice.

  • Shades: 8
  • Dry Time: 2 minutes
  • Lamp Included: Yes

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING AN AT-HOME GEL KIT

STAYING POWER

One of the main attractions of at-home gel nails is their promise of professional-level longevity. The products, tools, and formulas should provide similar results to what you’d get at a salon. However, many kits we tried didn’t last more than a week. Various factors can influence this, including improper use of the kits, daily wear and tear on your nails, and not thoroughly removing natural oils from your nails before painting. For best results, carefully read all instructions and follow the manufacturer’s nail care suggestions, and consider wearing reusable gloves when cleaning and doing dishes.

INCLUDED SHADES

While some at-home gel kits come with multiple polish shades, many starter sets only include one or two. However, additional colors are often available for individual purchase, allowing you to gradually expand your collection with shades you’ll actually use. An extra bottle of white nail polish is great for classic French manicures and the trendy “glazed donut” nails.

CURING LAMP

Most kits come with a UV or LED lamp, which is essential for curing and drying gel polish. As celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein explains, “Gel polish needs a UV light to cure/dry and provides a chip-free manicure that lasts much longer than regular nail polish.” Depending on the lamp’s bulbs and wattage, each coat will take anywhere from 30 seconds to three minutes to cure. Most of our top picks, except for Essie’s Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish, include an LED/UV lamp.

REMOVAL

Gel manicures typically require soak-off removal. This involves soaking 10 cotton pieces in pure acetone, placing them on your nails, wrapping them in foil, and letting them sit for about 15 minutes. After soaking, the polish usually scrapes off easily. If you prefer not to make multiple trips to the store, consider the Red Carpet Manicure Pro 45 Gel Starter Kit, which includes foil wraps, gel polish remover, and more.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it! With these seven fantastic nail set ideas, you can celebrate your birthday with stunning nails that last. Whether you crave a classic French manicure, a touch of playful glitter, or a bold, eye-catching design, there’s a perfect option for you. So go forth, embrace your beautiful nails, and rock a birthday mani that shines as bright as you do!