Last Updated on January 7, 2023 by Hooria Batool
What is acrylic on nail?
The acrylic-on-nail method has been around for decades, thanks to its simplicity and low upkeep. Acrylics are a cosmetic product that closely resembles real fingernails when applied over a nail bed. A clear base coat is followed by two coats of colored polish, followed by a topcoat containing glitter or crystals.
Here is detail description of how to do acrylic nails step by step at home (DIY). It is much cheaper than getting them done professionally but make sure you follow all the steps carefully because an incorrect application can lead to various problems like infections, nail damage etc. Keep reading this step by step guide on how to do acrylic nails yourself. Just follow the steps given below:
Material required
- A nail file
- 100 grit nail file (for prepping the nails)
- 400 grit nail file (for smoothening the nails after filing)
- 100, 200 and 300 grit sandpapers for shaping them to perfection
- Get the stuff you need
- Acrylic Nail Paint -3 colors of choice (Optional)
- Nail Art Rhinestones -the size of rhinestones are up to your preference, but it’s good to have big ones so that doesn’t look weird.
- Clear Top Coat Glossy Finish by OPI
Preparing nails
Prepare your nails, so that they can handle acrylics longer and there won’t be bumps or any irregularities when applying the manicure. Here is my tutorial on how to put on a false nail tip. However, instead you can just apply a thin coat of orange stick to smooth out the ridges in my nail beds and then use 100% pure acetone to wipe down my nail bed, gently file it down just a bit, then apply the IBD Just Gel Nail Preparation, wait for it to dry completely before moving on.
Prepare acrylic material
Prepare your acrylic materials, you can get these at Sally’s Beauty Supply or any other beauty supply stores -a pair of disposable gloves -small cup(s) with about 2 inches of warm water -1 packet of Rapid Clear 50% off coupon.
You only need 1 packet if you’re doing one hand (2 hands=2 packets). You might also want big bowl filled with about 4 inches of warm water to soak your acetone jar in for easy application.1 regular nail brush -2 or 3 rat-ta-tat mini nail brushes (optional).
Add acrylic on brush
Add the acrylic to the brush. This part seems a bit confusing at first but once you understand better, it’s not that hard. It is important for beginners that they mix their own colors and don’t use premixed paints, because premix paints usually come with a lower quality and a less precise dosage of chemical ingredients. This makes it harder for beginners to create the right consistency. If you want to do acrylic nails step by step, then you need to mix your own colors.
How you do acrylic nails step by step at home?
Step 1
Start off with an ordinary clear base coat. Let this dry well before moving on to the next steps. You may now proceed to filing your nails into shape if you desire so just use a medium or coarse grade nail file for it (100/180). If you are satisfied with their form, skip this step and move on to step 2.
Step 2
Apply a thin coat of bond aid to the nails and let it dry before going any further. This prep will help the acrylic to adhere well to the nail bed, so be patient.
Step 3
Now apply a slightly thicker second coat of acrylic (ideally by brush not spray as it can be too runny). Make sure you avoid skin contact as it could cause irritation, fever and such! Cut away any excess material that might form at the edge with a sharp blade or scissors for an even finish after drying.
If you prefer square-edged nails like then use 400 grit sandpaper and gently file them down for smooth edges (it is advisable not to file them much as it may weaken and crack your nails). You can now clean up any mess by brushing away the excess acrylic with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol.
Step 4
Lastly, seal off your look with a thin coat of topcoat containing glitter/crystals after allowing it to dry thoroughly for at least 10 minutes. I prefer to use quick-dry topcoats because they are less likely to chip or peel off! Let them dry completely before you jump into bed as they may become brittle if exposed to moisture overnight. And voila, if all goes well you’re done.
Suggestions
You should always prepare and do your own nails at home and not get a manicure or pedicure at a nail salon. While some salons see acrylic nails as “cheap” and of less value, they can also be hazardous to one’s health, we all know that we need to stay away from infectious diseases when doing our own nails. If you want to apply acrylics step by step, learn the correct way for DIY nails.
How safe are polygel manicures for your nails?
Your nails are perfectly safe when Polygel manicures are applied and removed correctly. Due to the fact that polygel does not emit chemicals into the atmosphere when applied, it can be considered a safer alternative to other nail enhancements, such as acrylic. Nevertheless, Polygel nails should permanently be removed by a professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can we do this nail art at home?
Yes, we can do it easily at home. You do not need to go at salon. This is very simple and easy. You just need to follow the process.
- How much expense we need to prepare acrylic nail?
Average cost of acrylic nail is $35 to $45. Now it totally depends on your choice which type or which material you needed to do this art.
