How to Use Acrylic Nail Supplies at Home

There is a learning curve involved with the application of acrylic nails. So the first few times you use acrylic nail supplies at home, the end results may be less than desirable. But if you keep at it, you’ll eventually get the professional results you want. Here are a few basic tips to applying acrylic nails at home.

If you are unsure of what types of acrylic nail supplies to purchase, ask the clerk in the store for help.  You can also take the hassle-free route and buy an all-in-one kit from a large-chain discount or drug store. These all-in-one kits take the guesswork out of buying acrylic nail supplies as they contain everything you’ll need to apply your nail enhancements at home.

Clean and dry your natural nails thoroughly. Apply a properly-fitted nail tip to the end of the nail and adhere it with nail glue. Follow the mixing instructions on the package for the liquid and powder acrylic. Dip the application brush into the acrylic mix and let it drop off the end of the brush onto the nail. Move the acrylic mixture around the natural curve of the nail until it’s completely covered. Use the acrylic nail clippers to cut the nails to the desired length. After the acrylic dries, shape and buff the nails. Remove excess dust from the fingernails and then polish.

Properly caring for your acrylic nails helps you get the most wear out of them. To prevent damage to the acrylic, always wear gloves when using chemicals. Don’t use your acrylic nails as tools. Avoid placing pressure on the nails. And use a soft brush during hand washing to remove food, dirt and bacteria that may lurk under the nail.

The dirt and moisture that gets between the natural and acrylic nail when it lifts can harbor dangerous bacteria and cause fungus growth. So if the acrylic nail lifts, don’t glue it back down. Instead, remove the lifted nail, clean and dry the area and apply a new acrylic nail.

To remove acrylic nails, soak them in acetone for an hour. Never pull, bite, or peel acrylic off as this can cause damage to your natural nails.