Applying acrylic nails by yourself can seem daunting, but with the right guide and enough practice, you can easily create amazing and durable acrylic nails right from home.

That’s why in this article I am going to guide you through step-by-step how to easily DIY acrylic nails at home.

Now, there are 3 main ways you can apply acrylic nails, you can:

1. Use glue on plastic nail tips to build out the acrylic extension.
2. Use paper nail forms as a temporary platform to build out the extension.
3. Apply it directly onto your natural nails as an overlay. If you are interested in how to do an acrylic overlay click here.

Things You Need to Do Acrylic Nails

1. Liquid Monomer – this is the liquid that you damp your brush with to pick up the powder. Click here to learn more about liquid monomer.
2. Powder Polymer – this is the powder that forms the acrylic nail.
3. Either Nail Forms or Nail Tips – to build out the nail extension. Not needed if you are doing an acrylic overlay.
4. Acrylic Nail Brush – I highly recommend a size 8 oval shaped for beginners, click here to learn more.
5. Nail Primers & Dehydrators – applied before application of acrylic nails. Helps to prevent lifting, click here to learn more.
6. Nail File & Cuticle Pusher – Used to Prep Nails.
7. Nail File – you are gonna need a medium-grit and a fine-grit nail file
8. Rubbing alcohol or acetone to clean the nails

If you are a beginner to acrylic nails then I highly recommend you check out my article – 6 Beginner Tips to Make Acrylic Nails Easier to Apply

Recommended Acrylic Kit

Modelones has a really nice acrylic kit, that comes with high-quality acrylic products at a decent price making them perfect for beginners.

It comes with acrylic powder, liquid, an acrylic brush, paper forms,

The only thing they don’t include is a nail primer and dehydrator but you can easily buy that separately.

You can click here to see the price for the Modelones Acrylic Kit on Amazon.

1- How to Apply Acrylic Nails Using Plastic Nail Tips

If you are a beginner to acrylic application, then I recommend starting off by learning how to apply acrylic nails using plastic nail tips.

Plastic nail tips are glued onto your nails using nail glue and then acrylic is applied on top of it. Now since the tips are glued on, they tend to allow you to work with more confidence that it won’t fall off.

When I just started applying acrylic nails, I found nail tips to be easier to use but this will vary with everyone since some people find the tips harder to glue on and work with.

Step 1 – Prep Your Nails

Start by washing your nails with soap and warm water. This cleans your hands, and nails and softens up your cuticles.

Then use a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles.

Next, use a medium grit nail file to buff away the sheen from your nails. This removes the oily layer over your nails allowing the acrylic to adhere better.

Finally, wash your nails with soap and water. Then wipe them down with a cotton pad soaked in rubbing alcohol or acetone.

Video Showing How to Prep Nails for Acrylic Application

Step 2 – Fit the Nail Tip

Once your nails have been prepped, you must put the nail tip on.

First, choose the correct size of the nail tip, ensure you choose one that is not too wide or too thin. If needed you can file the sides down to get a perfect fit.

Apply a little nail glue on the edge of the nail tip and then fit the nail tip onto your nails. You need to act fast before the glue dries.

Finally, use a scissor to trim the nail tip to the size and shape you want.

Also, I always buff the plastic tips to remove the sheen and then try to file down the area where the nail tip fits on the nails to give a nice smooth look.

Finally, wipe your nails down with a cotton pad soaked in rubbing alcohol or acetone.

Video Showing How to Fit Nail Tips

Step 3 – Apply the Nail Primer & Dehydrator

Both nail primers and dehydrators are used to prevent premature lifting. Primers work to bond the acrylic onto the nails whilst dehydrators remove moisture and oil from the nail plate.

• First, apply a coat of the dehydrator to your nails and let them dry for 10 seconds.
• Next, apply a coat of the nail primer onto your nails.

Only apply the dehydrator and primer onto your nail plate not onto the plastic nail tips.

You can click here to read my recommended brands of Nail Primers and Dehydrators.

Step 4 – Make the Acrylic Bead.

The next step for acrylic application is to make the acrylic bead. The key to making good acrylic beads is to get the right liquid-to-powder ratio.

• First, you need to wet your acrylic nail brush with the liquid monomer,
• Then simply dip the brush into the acrylic liquid.
• Next, take the damp brush and gently press it onto the acrylic powder.
• Avoid dragging the brush on the powder,
• Just simply press the brush down and then pick up the powder.
• The bead needs to be not too dry or too wet.
• You can check out the video below to see how it’s done.

Once you have made your acrylic bead you have about 1 minute before the bead hardens.

Step 5 – Apply the Acrylic Bead to the Nails

Once you have your acrylic bead, you can proceed to apply it over your nails. Take your time and gently apply and mold the acrylic over your nails and the plastic nail tip.

One bead might not be enough so you can use as many beads as needed, and I recommend for beginners try using small beads to build out the nail.

Also, you probably won’t get the exact shape during the application of the acrylic. But that’s ok because, in the next step, you will shape the nails to your liking.

Once you have applied the acrylic to the nails, you need to leave them to dry and harden for around 10 minutes.

Related Article – Dangers & Effects of Acrylic Nails- Can it Cause Cancer

Step 6 – Buff & Shape Acrylic Nails

Now once the acrylic has been applied and has hardened you need to shape the nails.

• First, take a medium grit (180 grit) nail file and then file the edges of the nails into the shape that you want.
• Next, take the file and then use it to buff the top of the nails to remove any excess bulk and make it into a more consistent shape.
• Finally, use a high-grit nail file 400-600 grit to buff the nail to make it very smooth.

Finally, once your acrylic nails have been filed apply any nail product like nail polish onto them.

Also, filing is very important, you can check out the video below for a full guide on how to apply acrylic nails.

Video of How to Apply Acrylic Nails with Nail Tips

2- How to Apply Acrylic Nails Using Nail Forms

Nail forms are where a paper structure is temporarily placed under the nails giving you a temporary structure to build out your acrylic extension.

Nail forms require less work and are probably the most durable and long-lasting way to apply your acrylic nails. This is because the acrylic is allowed to bond completely with the natural nails.

Unlike nail tips where the tips adhere to the nails by using nail glue which is more prone to lifting.

But nail forms also, are a bit more difficult since the paper isn’t so fixed onto the nails so it can come off if you don’t know what you are doing. But once you get the hang of it forms are much better than nail tips.

How to Apply Acrylic Nails Using Nail Forms

1. First, prep your nails by pushing back your cuticles and then filing them to remove the sheen with a medium grit nail file.
2. Next, wipe the nails with a cotton pad soaked with rubbing alcohol or acetone.
3. Then apply a coat of the dehydrator and then a coat of the nail primer.
4. You can then fit the nail form under the nails, check the video below to see how it’s done.
5. Next, make the bead by dipping the acrylic brush into the liquid monomer and then into the powder
6. Take the bead and start to build out the acrylic nail.
7. Once the acrylic nails are dried and hardened, remove the nail form.
8. Then you can use a medium grit nail file to shape the edges and remove any bulk on top of the nails.
9. Finally, use a fine grit nail file to buff your acrylic nails as smoothly as possible.
10. Now you can apply any nail product like nail polish onto your acrylic nails.

I have a video below that will guide you through how to apply acrylic nails using nail forms.

Video of How to Apply Acrylic Nails Using Nail Forms

3- How to Apply Acrylic Nails without Nail Tips or Forms

Now if you don’t want to extend your nails but still want a durable and long-lasting manicure, then you can just apply the acrylic onto the natural nails.

This is called an acrylic overlay and is usually used to reinforce the natural nails. I have an entire article on Acrylic Overlay where I will guide you on the Benefits & How to DIY it, click here to read it.

Or you can also check out the video below to learn more.

The post 3 Ways to Apply Acrylic Nails at Home- Step by Step W/Video appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

I have been working with acrylic nails now for almost 10 years and for me it is like riding a bike. But I can tell you at the beginning it can seem extremely intimidating and challenging to work with.

Now honestly, with a few simple tricks you can quickly start to work with acrylic and in no time you can master it.

That’s why in this article I am going to share with you some tips that I wish I knew when I had just started working with acrylic nails.

6 Beginner Tips to Apply Acrylic Nails Easier

1. Practice as much as possible
2. Use an oval-shaped size 8 acrylic nail brush
3. Work with odorless slow-setting monomers
4. Always prep your nails before application
5. Get the liquid-to-powder ratio right
6. Start with nail tips instead of nail forms

I also have a great article on the 3 Different methods How to Apply Acrylic Nails, click here to read.

1- Practice Makes Perfect

The best thing you can do to improve your skills with acrylic nails especially when you are new to working with it is to PRACTICE.

By constantly practicing making the beads and then sculpting the nails you will get better in no time.

To practice I recommend using a fake practice hand. These come with removable nails that allow you to apply the acrylic as if you were applying it on a real person.

You can click here to see the price of one on Amazon.

Now if you can also use nail tips to practice on, since it creates a similar surface like your nails. I recommend gluing the nail tip down with double sided tape to keep it still and then practice the application.

2- Use the Right Acrylic Nail Brush

Acrylic Nail Brushes come in different sizes and shapes and each one of them has a slightly different purpose and advantage over each other.

Now for beginners I recommend using an Oval shaped brush either size 6 or 8. This will big enough to create a bead big enough to cover the nails but small enough so that you can control it.

You can click here to see the Pana Oval Shaped size 8 Kolinsky Acrylic Nail Brush on Amazon. Its a bit pricey but it will make applying acrylic nails easier which is important when you are now starting out.

Bigger brushes like 10 and above tend to work faster but requires more skill. Whilst smaller brushes below 6 are meant for detailed work like nail art and fill-ins.

You can click here to learn more about What Size & Shape Acrylic Nail Brush is Best and Easy to Use

3- Use Odorless Acrylic Liquid Monomer

The type of monomer will dictate the rate at which the acrylic bead dries, sets and hardens. For beginners its best to use a monomer that takes longer to dry.

This allows you more time to work and sculpt out your nails as you want without rushing.

Now I recommend using odorless monomers as a beginner because they have:

1. Very low odor and scent profile – making it easier to breathe during the application process.
2. Longer setting or drying time – which is perfect if you are new to acrylic nails since it gives you more time to work with them.

I usually use Young Nail’s Low Odor monomer, click here to see the price for a bottle on Amazon.

Or you can also click here to learn more about odorless monomer.

4- Always Prep the Nails

One of the things that a lot of beginners to acrylic nails fail to do is to correctly prep their nails before applying the acrylic.

If you fail to prep your nails the acrylic won’t bond to the nail plate and will lead to premature lifting.

To prep your nails you need to:

1. Firstly use a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles.
2. Then use a medium grit nail file to buff away the sheen from your nails.
3. And finally, you need to wash and dry your hands and nails and then clean your nails by wiping them with rubbing alcohol or acetone.

By preping your nails before application will allow your acrylic nails to last for a very long time without lifting.

Also you should read my article on How Long Acrylic Nails Last & 11 Tips to Make Last Longer

Video of How to Prep Nails for Acrylic Application

5- Get the Liquid to Powder Ratio Right

Making the beads with the right ratio of liquid to powder is essential. You see if you don’t get the right ratio it can cause the beads to come out poorly and lead to your acrylic nails not forming properly.

One simple method is to lightly wet the acrylic brush in the liquid monomer and then gently press it in the powder for 3-4 seconds.

It’s important that you practice making the beads a few times before trying it on yourself or a client. I have a great video below that will guide you on how to make acrylic beads

Video Showing How to Make Acrylic Beads

6- Use Nail Tips

Their are 2 main ways to make acrylic nail extensions either by using; nail tips or nail forms.

Nail tips are where you use nail glue to paste the tip onto the nails and then apply the acrylic ontop of it. Nail Forms is where you place a paper form under the nails and then you apply the acrylic ontop of it building it out.

Now for me when I was starting out I preferred using nail tips. This is because nail tips:

• Are glued on so they hold on better to your nails – which allows you to move around better without worrying it would come off during application
• Create a fixed surface, which you can build out the acrylic.
• Tend to be easier to apply- all you need to do is get the sizing right and then glue it on. Whilst with nail forms you have to practice putting it on your nails.

Now the advantage with nail forms is that they are more durable and long-lasting. To learn more I highly recommend you read my article on Nail Forms Vs Tips – Which One is Really Better & Stronger.

The post 6 Beginner Tips to Make Acrylic Nails Easier to Apply appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

The liquid acrylic monomer is essential when making acrylic nails. Without it, the powder would never be able to form the extension or overlay.

That’s why in this article we are going to be discussing the liquid monomer and tell you:

• What is Acrylic Monomer,
• Best and Safest Brands to Get,
• And any possible side effects.
• Tips to prevent potential side effects

What is Acrylic Nail Monomer

Acrylic monomer is the liquid used when working with acrylic nails. It is the liquid that you soak your brush to dip into the powder to form the acrylic beads.

The liquid monomer works by turning the polymer in the acrylic powder into long fibers that interlock and form a strong solid structure. This process is called cross-linking and is how the powder and liquid create a solid nail structure.

The liquid acrylic monomer is made primarily of either MMA (Methyl methacrylate) or EMA (Ethyl methacrylate). Monomers also tend to contain some amount of alcohol and other chemicals as well.

Related Articles –

Best Odorless Monomers- Pros, Cons, Is it Safer & Better

6 Beginner Tips to Make Acrylic Nails Easier to Apply

Types of Acrylic Monomer

Monomers can be classified based on what they are made of and they are 2 main types:

1. EMA Monomers – which is the safest and currently the most popular type of monomer.
2. MMA Monomers – MMA monomers tend to be cheaper, have stronger odors, and have been linked with causing health issues.

I highly recommend sticking with monomers that are made of EMA and you need to avoid any that contain MMA.

Related Articles –

Can You Use Substitutes for Liquid Monomer – Acrylic nails

3 Ways to Apply Acrylic Nails at Home- Step by Step W/Video

Best & Safest Acrylic Nail Monomer

The 4 best and safest acrylic nail monomers are:

1. Young Nails Monomer – Effective formula with very a low odor.
2. Mia Secret Monomer – Most popular and very affordable
3. Kiara Sky Monomer
4. Karlash Monomer

All of these monomers are non-yellowing, MMA-Free meaning that they are made using EMA. And they are capable of working with any brand of acrylic powders.

Related Article – Are Acrylic Nails Safe When Pregnant -Debate For & Against

1- Young Nails Monomer

Young Nails is a premium brand and I think they have one of the best acrylic monomers on the market. They are the brand that I use when I am doing acrylic nails at home.

Their monomer has a nice formula meaning it hardens and cures at a good pace – not too fast and not too slow.

But the main thing that I like about Young Nail’s Monomer is that it has a very low odor profile – so much so that it is considered an odorless monomer.

Another great thing about Young Nails Monomer is that it takes a little longer to harden compared to other monomers. This is perfect if you are a beginner to acrylic nails since it allows you more time to sculpt the nail out with no need to rush.

Where to Get Young Nails Monomer

Now the only issue with Young Nail’s Monomer is that it is pricey but I think it’s worth paying for.

You can click here to see the price for a bottle of Young Nails Monomer on Amazon.

2- Mia Secret Nail Monomer

Mia Secret has a very affordable and nice monomer. They are one of the largest players in the acrylic nail market and their products can be found in a lot of salons.

I tend to use Mia Secret when working with clients because it is affordable and it hardens and cures faster which is important when dealing with limited time.

The only issue with Mia Secret Monomers is that they are not an odorless monomer and will have a scent just like most other regular monomers.

You can click here to see the price for a bottle of Mia Secret Monomers on Amazon.

3- Kiara Sky Monomer

Kiara Sky is another great premium brand of monomer. Their formula is top-notch and works with any brand of acrylic powder.

Now what I really like about them is that their monomer is made right here in the USA.

They are a bit pricey though. You can click here to see the price for a bottle on Amazon.

4- Karlash Monomer

Karlash Monomer is similar to Mia Secret it is affordable with a fast drying time.

You can click here to see the price for a Bottle on Amazon

Is Acrylic Monomer Bad for your Nails

Acrylic Monomer won’t affect or damage your nails once you use it correctly and you use brands that are MMA-free.

Now if you use monomers that contain MMA it can affect your nails. You can click here to read my article on How Acrylic Ruin Your Nails & Tips to Prevent Damages

Related Article – 7 Tips to Quickly Heal Damaged Nails After Acrylic Or Gel

Side Effects of Acrylic Nail Monomers

There are 2 ways acrylic monomer can affect you either when it gets on your skin or when you inhale

Smelling or inhaling acrylic monomer can lead to:

1. Coughing
2. Shortness of breath
3. Nausea
4. Headaches
5. Dizziness

Whilst if a good amount of monomer gets on your skin it can cause;

1. Development of rashes
2. Swelling
3. Itching
4. Redness
5. Skin to become very dry and start to peel
6. A slight burning sensation on the skin

Now, the long-term side effects of monomers will be different. They can occur if you are constantly exposed to monomer either by inhaling monomer or getting it on your skin.

Long-term side effects of monomers are:

1. Asthma – due to constantly inhaling monomer. Citation.
2. Allergic Reaction – constantly being exposed to acrylic monomer can lead you to become sensitive to acrylic products. Click here to learn more about allergic reactions to acrylic nails.

I have an entire article where I go through all of the possible health risks and dangers of acrylic nails, you can click here to read it.

How to Prevent Acrylic Monomer From Affecting Your

To prevent these side effects I recommend:

1. Avoid monomer that contains MMA
2. Wearing a mask during acrylic application
3. Stick with salons that are well ventilated
4. Use the correct amount of monomer when applying acrylic nails- if you use too much it can run onto your skin
5. Wear gloves if you are applying acrylic nails onto someone else – this prevents the monomer from getting onto your skin.

The post What is Acrylic Monomer- Best Brands to Use & Side Effects appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Acrylic nails are well known for their strong pungent scent during application. Now, this odor comes mainly from the liquid acrylic monomer.

And one of the best ways I have found to reduce the amount of acrylic fumes and odor is to use odorless monomers.

That’s why in this article, I am going to share with you some of the best brands of odorless monomers and answer some of the questions you might have about them.

What are Odorless Acrylic Nail Monomers

Odorless monomers are acrylic liquids that have a very low scent profile. They tend to have a milder and not-so-strong scent when compared to the regular acrylic liquid used to apply acrylic nails.

The first thing you need to know is that odorless monomers are usually not completely free of odor or scent. It is almost impossible to have a monomer that has no scent.

Now how much the monomer will smell will vary with each brand of monomer since different brands use different formulas.

Odorless monomers tend to evaporate more slowly and are made of EMA (Ethyl methacrylate) which has less odor and is much safer and better than monomers made of MMA (Methyl methacrylate).

To learn more about What is Acrylic Monomer, click here.

Related Articles:

Are Acrylic Nails Safe When Pregnant -Debate For & Against

Allergic Reaction to Acrylic Nails- How to Spot & Treat

Odorless vs Regular Monomer – Is it Just as Effective

Yes, odorless acrylic monomers are just as effective as regular acrylic liquid and they will work with most brands of acrylic powder.

I personally use odorless monomers especially when I am applying acrylic nails at home and I don’t want my entire house to smell like a nail salon.

Now the difference with odorless monomers is that they will have less odor, and they take longer to cure and harden when compared to regular monomers.

Related Articles –

Why you can’t Substitute Liquid Monomer with Acrylic nails

3 Ways to Apply Acrylic Nails at Home- Step by Step W/Video

Best Odorless Acrylic Nail Monomers

The best odorless monomers when applying acrylic nails are:

1. Young Nails Monomer (A premium really nice low-odor monomer)
2. Mia Secret Odorless monomer (A very low odor monomer that requires a UV LED lamp to set)

1- Young Nails Monomer

Young Nails Low Odor Monomer is one of my favorite monomers to use. Not only does it have a low odor but it also has a nice setting time meaning it doesn’t harden too fast or too slow.

This makes it an easy-to-use monomer. The scent can be described as a very mild monomer odor and will quickly dissipate within 10 to 15 minutes. Compared to other brands where their odor can take hours to move away.

Young Nails monomers also don’t contain any MMA and instead are made of EMA.

Where to Get Young Nail Monomer

Young Nails is a premium brand so they are a bit pricey but I think they are worth it.

You can click here to see the current price for a bottle on Amazon.

Or you can check out their website here.

2- Mia Secret UV Fusion Odorless Monomer

Mia Secret has one of the lowest-odor monomers on the market. But the catch is that it requires a UV-Led nail lamp to fully cure.

The monomer will work on most brands of acrylic powder and turn it into a thick gel-like bead but to fully harden and set it you would need to cure it under a nail lamp.

I think Mia Secret UV Monomer is ideal if you are a beginner to acrylic nails. This is because it won’t completely harden unless exposed to a UV-Led Nail lamp this allows you to take your time to sculpt out the nails which can be tricky when you are now getting started.

Mia Secret Fusion monomer tends to have a very mild sweet fragrant scent You can click here to see the price for the Mia Secret UV Monomer on Amazon.

Benefits of Odorless Monomer

1. Very low or almost nonexistent scent profile
2. Easier to Use – since odorless monomer takes a bit longer to harden this allows you more time to sculpt your extensions. Making it perfect for beginners.
3. Uses less liquid monomer – odorless monomer tends to hold onto the acrylic powder better so you won’t need to use so much liquid when compared with regular liquid monomer

Related Article – How Acrylic Ruin Your Nails & Tips to Prevent Damages

Drawbacks of Odorless Acrylic Monomers

Now the main issues with odorless monomers are:

• Have a longer setting time – meaning they take a bit longer to harden and dry when compared to regular acrylic liquid-monomer meaning slower application time.
• Some brands of odorless monomer will dry with a tacky-wet layer – which needs to be wiped off with a cotton pad soaked in warm water or filed away.
• More expensive than regular monomers. This is why most salons don’t really use them.
• Increases the application time for the manicure – by using odorless monomer the acrylic beads will tend to take longer to dry and set.

Related Article – Acrylic Nails turn Yellow or Brown: Causes & How to Fix

Are Odorless Acrylic Nail Monomer Safer

Odorless monomers tend to be safer to use this is because:

• Odorless monomers are usually made of EMA which is safer than MMA. And MMA can be dangerous to your health.
• Less odor means less fumes to be inhaled. Constantly inhaling large amounts of acrylic odor can be very irritating to your lungs and can pose health hazards – which is why I recommend wearing masks during application for both the technicians and clients.

I have a whole article on the health risks of getting acrylic nails and How you can avoid some of the risks, click here to read.

Video Comparing Odorless Monomer to Regular Monomer & How to Use

Who Should Use Odorless Monomers

Odorless monomers are perfect for:

• Individuals now starting to learn how to apply acrylic nails – longer setting time allows you to take your time and not be rushed
• Applying acrylic nails in rooms that are not well-ventilated – but I still recommend wearing masks and opening windows when working with acrylic nails

Related Article – Gel vs Acrylic Nails – Which One Is Right For You

Tip to make nail monomers not smell

Now you can’t really get rid of acrylic odor, especially from regular acrylic monomer but you can help to change the scent by using monomer odorizing drops.

These drops are applied when you pour the monomer out into your container. They work to change the scent of the odor and to some extent reduce it.

Mia Secret has a nice cherry-scented one, you can click here to see the price for a bottle on Amazon.

Some other great tips to reduce the odor are:

1. Do acrylic application in a well-ventilated room
2. Wear masks during the application
3. And you can also keep baking powder in a container on your working desk. The baking powder will help to absorb the acrylic odor.

The post Best Odorless Monomers- Pros, Cons, Is it Safer & Better appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Acrylic nails have a reputation for not being the safest form of manicure. But do they deserve this bad reputation?

In this article we will discuss:

• The potential health hazards of acrylic nails
• Tips to Make Acrylic Application Safer
• Acrylic nails and Cancer
• Safer Alternatives to acrylic nails

Dangers of Acrylic Nails

Most of the health hazards from acrylic nails can easily be prevented usually by using safe products, wearing masks, and avoiding getting acrylic nails done too frequently.

But when you don’t take enough precautions, acrylic nails can in the long term lead to a higher risk of developing:

1. Contact Dermatitis / Allergic Reaction – Usually from years of exposure to acrylic or by using MMA products
2. Nail Damage – Due to over filing and exposure to harsh chemicals
3. Nail and Skin Infection – This occurs when tools are not sterilized properly or when the acrylic nails start to lift.
4. Asthma – from frequent inhalation of acrylic dust during the removal process.

Now in the short term, the health effects of getting acrylic nails will vary depending on the cause.

• An allergic reaction – your fingers and nails can start to burn and peel. Click here to learn how to spot an allergic reaction.
• Inhaling acrylic fumes can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and irritation. Citation.
• Over filing of your natural nails during acrylic application can cause them to hurt and become tender and swollen. Click here to learn more about why acrylic nails hurt and what to do.

Are you pregnant or breastfeeding and thinking of getting acrylic then you need to read my article Are Acrylic Nails Safe When Pregnant -Debate For & Against

1- Lead to Contact Dermatitis

Even if you are not allergic to acrylic nails frequent exposure to the acrylic liquid can over time lead you to develop contact dermatitis which is a form of allergy to acrylic products.

Contact dermatitis usually occurs when you use acrylic liquid that contains Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) or when you constantly get the acrylic liquid on your skin and nails.

I have an entire article on Allergic Reactions to Acrylic Nails and How to Spot & Treat these Reactions, click here to learn more.

2- Nail Damage

Acrylic nails can greatly weaken your nails. This usually happens due to over-filing, the use of harsh nail primers, or improper removal of the acrylic nails.

This has happened to me several times and it can lead your nails to become very thin and brittle. The best way to prevent this from happening is to:

• Avoid over-filing your nails before application
• Avoid using strong acid nail primers.
• Correctly remove your acrylic nails.
• Take breaks from getting acrylic nails.

I have an entire article on How Acrylic Ruin Your Nails & Tips to Prevent Damages, click here to read.

3- Nail & Skin Infection

Acrylic Nails can cause you to develop a nail and skin infection. This usually occurs when the tools such as the cuticle pusher or nail file were not sterilized correctly.

Nail infection can damage your nails, slow their growth and be very painful.

Related Article – Acrylic Nails turn Yellow or Brown: Causes & How to Fix

4- Asthma

When removing acrylic nails a lot of dust is produced. Now constantly inhaling this dust can lead to the development of asthma. Citation.

To prevent this from occurring I always wear a mask. And you should go to nail salons that have dust vents at their manicure table to suck up any dust.

I also prefer using odorless monomer which produces less acrylic fumes, click here to learn more.

Related Article – Why you can’t Substitute Liquid Monomer with Acrylic nails

Can Acrylic Nails Cause Cancer

There have been no studies or reports to show that acrylic nails can increase the risk of developing cancer.

And most experts tend to agree that once safe products are used and proper precautions are followed then getting acrylic nails will not cause any severe long-term illnesses like cancer.

Now there are certain chemicals found in some nail products that can increase the chances of getting cancer. So you need to read your labels and check for:

1. Formaldehyde
2. Toluene
3. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
4. Benzene

Avoid these chemicals as much as possible. I usually use nail polishes that are 5- Free meaning they don’t contain these toxic ingredients.

Related Article – What is Acrylic Monomer- Best Brands to Use & Side Effects

Can Acrylic Fumes Damage Your Lungs

Inhaling acrylic fumes in large amounts is not safe for your lungs and your overall health.

In the short term inhaling a lot of acrylic fumes can cause burning in your throat. Whilst in the long run it can potentially cause health issues like asthma.

This is why it is important they you wear a mask and use salons that are well ventilated.

Safety Tips to Follow When Getting Acrylic Nails

1. Wear a mask during the application and removal of your acrylic nails.
2. Go to salons that are well ventilated
3. Avoid using acrylic liquid containing MMA – ask your nail tech what monomer they use & read your labels. Check for monomer with EMA.
4. Use products that are from reputable brands
5. Go to salons that are registered and that follow guidelines on sanitation.
6. Sterilize your tools
7. Take regular breaks from acrylic nails – go natural or wear press-on nails with nail tabs.

Dangers of Using Acrylic Products with MMA

Avoid using acrylic monomers that contain Methyl Methacrylate (MMA). MMA has some serious side effects and is banned in many countries. This is because MMA:

• Increases the risks of developing severe contact dermatitis
• Damages to your nails
• Can damage your lungs and lead to respiratory problems
• Eye, Nose, and Throat irritation.
• Loss of feeling in your fingertips.

Recommended Acrylic Monomer

My favorite monomer to use is Young Nails – its MMA free and has low odor profile. It is a bit more pricey but I think it’s worth it. Click here to see the price for a bottle on Amazon.

Safer Alternatives to Acrylic Nails

They are many alternatives to acrylic my 2 favorites are Dip Powder and Press on Nails. Both of which will be safer for your health and easier to DIY.

You can click here to learn more about Dip Powder vs Acrylic Nails: Difference & Which is Better

And click here to read about Press on Nails Vs Acrylic: Differences & Which is Better.

Also for more alternatives to acrylic nails click here.

Citations

Formaldehyde and Cancer Risk

Nail Care Products FDA

DBP – Health Risks

MMA Health Risks

Health Risks of Benzene

The post Dangers & Effects of Acrylic Nails- Can it Cause Cancer appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Acrylic nails are well known for using a lot of strong chemicals with intense odors during the application process.

This is why many individuals wonder if acrylic nails are safe to get when pregnant or breastfeeding. That’s why in this article we are going to be answering:

• Can You Get Acrylic Nails Done When Pregnant or Breastfeeding
• What are the Arguments against getting acrylic nails when pregnant or breastfeeding?
• And Some Easy Tips to make acrylic nails safer during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Can You Get Acrylic Nails Done When Pregnant or Breastfeeding?

Now it’s important to note that as of writing this article on February 2023 there have been no studies done to show the effects of getting acrylic nails when pregnant or breastfeeding to either confirm or deny if it’s safe.

But most experts agree that once proper procedures are followed and good quality products are used you can safely get acrylic nails when pregnant or breastfeeding. Citation.

Now there is a study that has shown that some of the chemicals used during acrylic application in very large quantities can increase the chances of miscarriages, deformities, and other pregnancy issues. But this has been shown to occur when women were exposed to extremely large quantities which are not typical in a salon environment.

I personally don’t recommend acrylic nails to my pregnant clients because of the many unknowns and also they are so many safer options available, keep reading to learn more.

One of the best types of manicures is Press-on Nails. When applied using nail tabs, press-on nails are probably the safest nail extension manicure for pregnant women. You can click here to learn more.

Related Articles –

Dangers & Effects of Acrylic Nails- Can it Cause Cancer

What is Acrylic Monomer- Best Brands to Use & Side Effects

Arguments For Acrylic Nails

1- Not much exposure to chemicals

Most experts and nail techs will tell you that most of the chemicals used during the acrylic application won’t be absorbed into the bloodstream to affect the mother or child.

And if any do get absorbed it will be in very negligible amounts.

This is the main reason why a lot of nail techs and other experts are ok with pregnant and breastfeeding women getting acrylic nails and are not deterred from getting them.

Related Article – Allergic Reaction to Acrylic Nails- How to Spot & Treat

2- No Evidence to Show any Dangers

There has been no evidence to show that acrylic nails, once proper precautions are taken and safe products are used, can affect you or the child when pregnant or breastfeeding

Also, a lot of nail techs will be quick to point out that pregnant women all over the world get acrylic nails every day and there haven’t been any significant reports of it causing any major health side effects.

Related Article – Acrylic Nails turn Yellow or Brown: Causes & How to Fix

3- Can Take Precautions to Reduce Risks

Now you can take precautions to reduce any possible effects that acrylic nails can have on women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Gonna share some easy tips you can do at the end of the article, so keep on reading.

Related Article – How Acrylic Ruin Your Nails & Tips to Prevent Damages

Arguments Against Getting Acrylic Nails When Pregnant or Breastfeeding

1- Chemicals used in Acrylic Application May Pose a Risk

No official studies have been done to show chemicals in Acrylic Applications are totally safe for women that are pregnant or breastfeeding.

The argument that acrylic is safe for pregnant women most experts would put forward is that these chemicals, like the monomer, acetone, and primer, are usually used in small amounts, and little if any would be absorbed into the body.

But a lot of times when actual health studies are done they can find things that were once considered safe actually pose a risk.

One such case is with UV nail lamps which were once considered very safe but now studies have shown actually can increase the chances of getting skin cancer. Citation.

You can click here to read my tips on How to Protect Your Hands from UV Nail Lamps.

2- Some Salons use unsafe Acrylic Products

Low-quality acrylic products can contain a chemical called Methyl Methacrylate or MMA usually found in the acrylic liquid.

Now the health risks of MMA acrylic products are extremely bad even in individuals who are not pregnant. Since it can cause: light-headedness, trembling of hands, rashes and so much more. Citation.

The effects of MMA acrylic products on pregnant women will be more likely and more intense due to them being more sensitive and vulnerable.

MMA products are banned in some countries and states but some salons still use them because they tend to be cheaper.

Related Article – Acrylic Nails- How Long to Wear & When to take a Break

3- Strong Odor Can Cause Nausea

Now if you have ever gotten acrylic nails then you will know that it has a strong odor. This is usually from the acrylic liquid which is the monomer.

This strong odor from the acrylic liquid can cause nausea to pregnant women especially in the first trimester when they are the most sensitive to strong odors. Citation.

Additionally, acetone which is used in large quantities during the removal of acrylic nails has a distinct odor that can be unpleasant for pregnant women.

I highly recommend using odorless acrylic monomer when pregnant since it produces less odor, click here to learn more.

Related Article – 7 Tips to Quickly Heal Damaged Nails After Acrylic Or Gel

4- Higher Risk of Nail Infections

When you get a manicure such as acrylic or gel nails, you tend to be at a higher risk of nail infections.

This is either from unclean nail tools or products or from bacteria buildup under the acrylic nails if they start to lift.

Any type of infection is not good when pregnant since your body tends to be more vulnerable and weak.

Related Article – Why do Acrylic Nails Hurt & Easy Tips to Relieve the Pain

5- Safer Alternatives

They are so many other safer types of manicures that you can get when pregnant, that are safer and use less harsh and strong chemicals.

I recommend to women who are pregnant and breastfeeding and who don’t what to get acrylic or gel nails but still want extensions to get Press on Nails and use nail tabs to glue them on, click here to learn more.

You can also click here to learn more about Press on Nails & other forms of healthier and safer types of Manicures.

Tips to Make Acrylic Nails Safer For Women that are Pregnant or Breastfeeding

1- Avoid Using Products with MMA

You need to read labels and ask your nail tech if their liquid monomer contains Methyl Methacrylate also known as MMA.

One sign that your salon uses MMA products is a presence of an intense overwhelming scent usually a sharp fruity one when you go into the salon.

Instead, you should use products that contain ethyl methacrylate (EMA) which is generally considered safer to use.

MMA products tend to be cheaper and have a strong pungent scent when compared to EMA.

2- Wear Masks

I recommend anyone getting acrylic nails done, to wear a mask during the application and removal process.

A mask will prevent you from inhaling fumes from the liquid monomer or acetone and dust when removing the nails.

3- Ensure the Salon is well Ventilated

Along with wearing a mask, I recommend going to a salon that is well-ventilated. A good salon should have vents to constantly pull stale air in and pump out fresh air.

This will prevent a buildup of chemicals such as acetone and monomer which can then easily be absorbed.

4- Avoid Using too Many Harsh Chemicals

Products like nail primers and dehydrators are used to make the acrylic adhere better to your nails. But when you are pregnant you need to try to avoid getting exposed to potentially harsh chemicals.

This is why you can tell your nail tech not to use any nail primer or dehydrator instead they can clean your nails with rubbing alcohol.

Rubbing alcohol won’t be as effective as a nail primer so your acrylic nails might be prone to lifting but it’s best to be on the safer side when pregnant.

You can also click here to read my How to DIY Nail Primers and Dehydrators.

5- Avoid Cutting Cuticles

Cutting your cuticles puts you at a much higher risk of developing an infection. So pregnant or not you should tell your nail tech to push back your cuticles and not cut them.

You can click here to read more about why it’s a bad idea to cut your cuticles and what to do instead.

6- Only go to Qualified and Skilled Nail Technicians

Skilled and experienced nail techs will know what they are doing and not use too much acrylic liquid when making acrylic beads. This reduces how much you are exposed to.

A good nail tech will also ensure that all of their tools such as brushes and cuticle pushers are sterilized which reduces the chances of getting a nail infection.

7- Avoid Nail Products that Contain Toxic Chemicals

It’s recommended that you avoid nail polishes and other nail products that contain:

1. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) – can potentially affect pregnant women. Citation.
2. Toluene – has been suspected to be damaging to fertility. Citation.
3. Formaldehyde – is a known carcinogen. Citation.

Some of these chemicals have even been banned from nail products by the EU but can still be found in some nail products. They should be especially avoided when Pregnant or breastfeeding.

Instead, I would recommend using nail products that are 5 free. You can click here to see the price for Eternal’s 5 free nail polishes on Amazon. It doesn’t contain toluene, formaldehyde, or DBP.

Is it bad to smell acrylic while pregnant?

Yes, it’s very bad to smell acrylic fumes when pregnant or not pregnant. It can make you feel nauseated and can cause other severe health risks.

Can Acrylic fumes cause a miscarriage?

Inhaling a lot of acrylic fumes in large amounts can pose a risk. This means you should avoid being exposed to it either when pregnant or not pregnant. Citation.

This is why I always wear a mask and try to keep the room well-ventilated when dealing when acrylic nails and I recommend to all my clients to do the same both pregnant and non-pregnant ones.

Citations/Sources

Is it safe to get acrylic nails while pregnant?

Is it safe to get a manicure or pedicure while pregnant?

What to know about getting your nails done during pregnancy

Researching Risk of Birth Defects Among Pregnant Nail Salon Workers and Hairdressers

The post Are Acrylic Nails Safe When Pregnant -Debate For & Against appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Acrylic nails are one of the most popular forms of manicures available, with millions of women and even some men getting acrylic applications done every month.

But can someone be allergic to them or even develop an allergy or sensitivity toward them?

Can You Be Allergic to Acrylic Nails

Yes, you can be allergic to acrylic nails, and even if you don’t have an allergy you can develop one.

That’s why in this article I am going to share with you some tips on:

• How to spot an allergic reaction to acrylic nails
• How to treat an allergic reaction to acrylic
• How to prevent becoming allergic to acrylic nails

Now it’s important to note that I am not a doctor so if you have a very bad reaction I highly recommend seeing a medical expert.

Related Articles:

How Acrylic Ruin Your Nails & Tips to Prevent Damages

Why do Acrylic Nails Hurt & Easy Tips to Relieve the Pain

Symptoms of An Allergic Reaction to Acrylic Nails

The main signs that you have an allergy or that you are sensitive to acrylic nails are:

1. Swelling of the finger– especially around the nails and fingertips
2. Rash– appearing on your fingers.
3. Burning especially on the nail plate and nail bed.
4. Itching– a mild or intense itch on your fingers
5. Redness– around the nail area and/or fingertips
6. Dryness and Peeling of the skin around the nails and fingertips

Now even if you do have one of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you are allergic to acrylic nails. These symptoms could also be an indicator of;

• An Infection can cause most of the symptoms such as itching and swelling
• An Expired acrylic product was used which can cause irritation
• A harsh nail primer was applied that you are not accustomed to which can cause burning especially if it got on your skin.
• Rough application or Over filing of the nails can also cause soreness and some amount of swelling.

To accurately diagnose an acrylic allergy you would need to visit a dermatologist or if you notice that you are constantly getting these symptoms after every acrylic application.

Related Articles –

Dangers & Effects of Acrylic Nails- Can it Cause Cancer

Click here to understand what it means if your acrylic nails turn yellow or brown.

How to Treat an Allergic Reaction to Acrylic Nails

1- Have them Removed

If you have symptoms of allergic reaction to acrylic nails the first thing you need to do is have them removed as soon as possible.

If you don’t remove them it can get worst. And even if the symptoms are from an infection or bad product you would still need to have them removed.

Once the acrylic nails have been removed the symptoms should start to disappear.

Related Articles:

When to Remove Acrylic Nails & When to Get it Filled

How to Easily Remove Acrylic Nails Without Acetone

2- Get Medical Help

If your symptoms are not getting better meaning they are staying the same way or getting worse even after removing the acrylic nails you will need to seek medical attention so that they can prescribe treatments.

Related Article – 7 Tips to Quickly Heal Damaged Nails After Acrylic Or Gel

3- Over the Counter Topical Treatment

A pharmacist can recommend using certain creams that contain drugs such as Hydrocortisone which can help to relieve any itching and treat rashes from an allergic reaction.

Also, calamine lotion and antihistamine products are commonly used. But I recommend talking to a medical expert before trying any topical treatment. Citation.

Related Article: Gel vs Acrylic Nails – Which One Is Right For You

How long will an Allergic Reaction to Acrylic Nails Last

The duration of the reaction will vary with every individual based on how sensitive they are and how serious the reaction was.

But once the acrylic nails were removed your nails should start to recover from the reaction within a few days.

Any burning and pain should ease within a few hours and the rash should start to fade.

Related Article – Best Odorless Monomers- Pros, Cons, Is it Safer & Better

When Will Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction to Acrylic Nails Show

When these symptoms show up will vary with every individual. They can show up during the application process or a few hours or even a few days after.

This really depends on how sensitive you are to the acrylic monomer.

I have seen clients whose skin and nails would start burning and itching during the application process. And I have had clients who reported a few hours after getting their nails done that they developed a rash.

Can you develop a sudden allergy to acrylic nails?

Yes, you can over time develop a reaction or sensitivity toward acrylic nails which can appear suddenly.

This is because most reactions to acrylic nails are classified as Irritant Contact dermatitis. This is where your skin becomes sensitive to things like chemicals usually from repeated exposure.

Most individuals develop contact dermatitis towards the acrylic liquid monomer and not necessarily to the powder or beads themselves.

Related Article – Acrylic Overlays: Cost, How to DIY, How Long will they Last

How to Prevent Becoming Allergic to Acrylic Nails

1 – Reduce how often you get acrylic nails done

One of the best things you can do to prevent developing sensitivity towards acrylic nails is to reduce how often you get them.

I always recommend taking breaks for 2-3 weeks after getting your acrylic removed. Now during the break, you can use regular nail polish.

By taking breaks and reducing how often you get acrylic nails prevents your skin and nails from becoming sensitive to all the chemicals used.

Related Article – What is Acrylic Monomer- Best Brands to Use & Side Effects

2- Avoid Getting Any of the Acrylic Liquid onto your skin

As mentioned before the development of contact dermatitis from acrylic nails comes from repeated exposure to acrylic liquid on your skin.

This can happen when the nail tech makes the beads too wet and allow the liquid monomer to go on your skin or if the brush accidentally touches your skin.

So ensure your nail tech is experienced and knows to make good beads with the right ratio of powder to liquid and is accurate and using the right brush to avoid any of the liquid going onto your skin.

Related Article – Why you can’t Substitute Liquid Monomer with Acrylic nails

3- Apply vaseline over your cuticles

Another way you can prevent acrylic liquid from going onto your skin is to apply a light coat of vaseline on the skin around your nails.

The Vaseline will act as a barrier and prevent the monomer from getting to the skin. Just don’t apply the vaseline onto the nails this will make the acrylic not adhere well. Citation.

4- Avoid MMA Products

Acrylic products that contain MMA also known as Methyl Methacrylate have a higher rate of causing allergic reactions. Instead, your acrylic liquid should be made with EMA.

So check your labels and ask your nail tech if they use MMA acrylic products. One way to spot MMA products is that they usually have a very intense fruity scent.

5- Wash Your Hands After Getting Your Nails Done

Always wash your hands and fingers with soap and water after getting an acrylic manicure. This helps to wash away any acrylic product that may have gotten on your skin.

6- Wear Gloves if you are applying the acrylic onto someone else

Nail technicians need to wear nitrile gloves when working with acrylic products. The gloves will help protect themselves from becoming sensitive to the acrylic product.

So if you are applying acrylic nails onto someone, protect yourself by wearing gloves.

Did you know that you can also have Acrylic Toenails & Pedicures -click here to learn more.

7- Use Alternatives

Acrylic nails are not the only way to get great manicures you do have other options. But the caveat is that most other alternatives such as nail polish or gel nails also contain acrylic-based ingredients.

Now, these are a few options that are perfect if you are allergic or sensitive to acrylic nails:

1. Press-on Nails – most brands of press on nails don’t contain acrylic-based ingredients. Instead, they are made of plastic and use nail glue to paste onto your nails. Click here to see Press on Nails Vs Acrylic Nails.
2. Nail Stickers & Wraps – are usually made of vinyl and should be very safe if you are allergic to acrylic nails. Click here to learn more about nail stickers.
3. Henna Nails – uses an all-natural dye to coat your nails. You can click here to learn more about Henna Dyes for Nails

I have an entire article that goes through some of the best Alternatives to Acrylic Nails. But not all of the are recommended if you are allergic to acrylic products.

You can also check out my article – 5 Healthiest & Safest Manicures that Won’t Damage Your Nails

Can an acrylic allergy go away?

There have been no official studies to indicate if contact dermatitis or allergies to acrylic can go away. But there have been cases where other types of allergies do disappear.

But from my experience, once your skin has developed a sensitivity towards acrylic products it won’t go away so easily.

Related Articles:

Gel X Nail Allergies: How to Spot, Treat & Prevent

The post Allergic Reaction to Acrylic Nails- How to Spot & Treat appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Have you noticed your acrylic nails have developed a yellowish or brownish tinge?

Over the years have seen this occur in a few of my clients, all of which were panicking thinking their nails had gone bad, but do you need to worry?

So that’s why in this article I am going to share with you the reasons why your acrylic nails can become discolored and what you can do to fix and prevent it from occurring.

The main reasons why your acrylic nails turned yellow or brown are:

1. Low-quality or very old acrylic powder or liquid was used
2. The acrylic product wasn’t allowed to harden before applying the top coat
3. You have had the acrylic nails on for too long – constantly getting fill-ins.
4. Using a strong nail primer
5. Too much exposure to sunlight
6. Your acrylic nails got stained from dyes from cooking like turmeric or curry powder
7. Acrylic nails were exposed to harsh chemicals such as bleach and other detergents

In most cases if your acrylic nails have changed color it won’t pose any risk to you or your nails, keep reading to learn more.

Fixing your acrylic nails that have changed color will depend on what caused the change in color.

• If your acrylic nails were stained from dyes such as turmeric or curry powder you can use lemon or lime juice, vinegar, or maybe even try hydrogen peroxide.
• Now with acrylic nails that turned yellow from sunlight, bad application, or low-quality products then your best bet is to cover up the discoloration with a very dark nail polish.

I go into more detail on how to use these methods later on in the article so keep on reading.

Related Articles – Allergic Reaction to Acrylic Nails- How to Spot & Treat

Dangers & Effects of Acrylic Nails- Can it Cause Cancer

What causes Acrylic Nails to turn Yellow or Brown

If your acrylic nails turned yellow or brown and they haven’t been exposed to harsh chemicals like bleach, food dyes, or too much sunlight. Then it is most likely either an application issue or a product problem.

1- Low-Quality Acrylic Products were Used

Acrylic products can lead to the yellowing or browning of acrylic nails if they:

1. Are very low-quality meaning the liquid monomer and powder polymer isn’t up to standard. Very cheap products tend to have too many additives.
2. Went bad – maybe your salon has had the liquid or powder for a long time. Acrylic liquid and monomer can go bad after 18 months or faster if not stored correctly.
3. Mixed – if your nail salon has a tendency to mix old liquid or powder with newly opened ones.
4. Or if you mix different brands together which sometimes can lead to negative reactions.

If the reason for your acrylic nails becoming yellow is due to bad products I recommend removing them. This is because bad products could pose other health risks.

Related Article – What is Acrylic Monomer- Best Brands to Use & Side Effects

How to Prevent

I recommend sticking with extremely reputable and certified nail salons. They tend to use better quality products. Read reviews and ask questions.

If you DIY your acrylic nails always invest in good quality products and ensure they are stored correctly in places that are not too hot or too cold.

Related Article – How Acrylic Ruin Your Nails & Tips to Prevent Damages

2- Acrylic Nails weren’t allowed to completely harden

This is less rare but it can happen. You see if you don’t allow the acrylic nails to completely harden and dry before applying the sealant it can leave the acrylic nails mushy and incomplete which can lead to discoloration.

You see when you apply the sealant which is usually a gel top coat it stops the acrylic liquid from evaporating meaning the acrylic won’t be able to harden properly.

Related Article – 5 Best Alternatives to Acrylic Nails That are Safer & Better

How to Prevent

The best way to prevent this from occurring is to allow enough time for the acrylic to harden and dry before applying the sealant, this is why you need to read the directions for the acrylic products.

But if you don’t have any direction what I do is apply all of the acrylic nails and then lastly apply the gel top coat. This allows them to cure completely.

Related Article – 10 Reasons Why Acrylic Nails Lift & How to Fix & Prevent

3- Had the Acrylic Nails on For Too Long

Acrylic nails can last you up to 6-8 weeks once you get them filled-in every 2-3 weeks. But when you do a fill-in you leave old product on.

I have seen the old leftover product develop discoloration over time especially if you pass 8 weeks of wear.

Related Article – Why do Acrylic Nails Hurt & Easy Tips to Relieve the Pain

How to Prevent

The best way to prevent this from occurring is to completely remove all of the acrylic product from your nails once they pass 8 weeks of wear even if they aren’t lifting.

I also recommend taking a break from acrylic nails, click here to learn why and for how long.

4- Strong Nail Primers

Your nail primers can also lead to your acrylic nails becoming yellow. This usually happens when you are doing a fill-in and the primer reacts with the leftover acrylic product. Citation.

Now, this happens more when you use stronger acid-based nail primers. This is another reason why I recommend using a non-acid primer, click here to read learn more about nail primers.

4- Too Much Exposure to Sunlight

When acrylic nails are exposed for a long period of time to harsh sunlight they can become discolored. The UV light from sunlight can break down the acrylic which can cause them to change color.

This is especially true for low-quality acrylic products or when you don’t wear a top coat over your acrylic nails.

Related Articles-

When to Remove Acrylic Nails & When to Get it Filled

How Long Acrylic Nails Last & 11 Tips to Make Last Longer

How to Prevent

• Avoid having your nails exposed to sunlight for long periods of time maybe consider wearing finger gloves
• Apply a good top coat over your acrylic nails – this will help to protect your acrylic nails from the sun, click here to read my recommendations for a good top coat for acrylic nails.

5- Acrylic Nails Got Stained

Acrylic nails can be stained by things like food dyes, hair dyes, certain makeup, turmeric, and curry powder. All of these things can leave them discolored.

How to Prevent

If you know you are going to be handling anything that may stain your nails then wear a good pair of gloves that will protect your acrylic nails.

Related Article – 7 Tips to Quickly Heal Damaged Nails After Acrylic Or Gel

6- Acrylic Nails were Exposed to Harsh Chemicals

Certain strong and harsh chemicals like bleach, paint products, hair treatments, pesticides, etc can cause a chemical reaction with your acrylic nails.

This reaction can cause your acrylic nails to become discolored.

How to Prevent

When handling any strong chemical please wear proper protective gloves. This will protect your skin and your acrylic nails.

Related Article: Gel vs Acrylic Nails – Which One Is Right For You

How to Fix Acrylic Nail turned Yellow or Brown

1- Use Lemon/ Lime Juice or White Vinegar

If the discoloration of your acrylic nails is from stains such as dyes or food coloring you can use this method:

1. Damp a cotton pad with lemon juice or white vinegar
2. And then wrap your acrylic nails with the cotton pad.
3. Leave it on your acrylic nails for 5 to 10 minutes
4. Then wash your nails with running water.
5. Repeat as many times till your nails are back to normal.

This method won’t work if the yellowing or browning of your acrylic nails is from a chemical reaction such as sunlight or bad acrylic products.

Reactions are permanent and cannot be wiped off. Instead, you need to cover them up.

2- Cover Your Yellowed Acrylic Nails with a Dark Nail Polish

If your acrylic nails are still in good condition meaning that they aren’t lifting or chipping. But have become discolored, then one of the best things you can do is wear a dark-colored nail polish to hide the yellowish-brownish tinge.

This will work regardless of the cause of the nails becoming discolored.

The post Acrylic Nails turn Yellow or Brown: Causes & How to Fix appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Acrylic nails are extremely durable and long-lasting and if you get a fill-in every 3 weeks, they can last you up to 6-8 weeks.

But should you really have your acrylic nails on for so long and do you really need to give your nails a break from them? Let’s see.

How Long to Wear Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails can be safely worn for 6-8 weeks and then they should be removed. This is what I and most experts recommend.

Even if your acrylic nails are not showing any sign of lifting, chipping, or peeling. You should still remove them after 8 weeks of continuously wearing them and not attempt to do a fill-in and then continue wearing them.

Now some nail techs might tell you otherwise but remember nail salons profit when you consistently pay for acrylic nails. And if everyone took breaks from acrylic nails their business will decrease.

If your nails are damaged I recommend checking out my article on 7 Tips to Quickly Heal Damaged Nails After Acrylic.

Also, check out my article on The Dangers & Effects of Acrylic Nails- Can it Cause Cancer

When to Take a Break From Acrylic Nails

You should take a break from acrylic nails if you have:

• Worn them for more than 6 weeks
• Had acrylic manicures applied twice in a row.

Taking a break from acrylic nails allows:

1. Your nails to heal and grow naturally – since they won’t be constantly filed and have the acrylic weighing on them
2. You to examine the health of your nails – without any acrylic blocking your view.
3. Prevent infections and the development of allergic reactions.

Related Article – How Acrylic Ruin Your Nails & Tips to Prevent Damages

How long to take a Break From Acrylic

You should let your nails rest for 2-3 weeks after removing your acrylic nails.

If you remove your acrylic and your nails are in good health meaning they are strong and have no signs of infection then a 2-week break should suffice.

But if your nails are showing signs of infection and brittleness then don’t apply any acrylic or other nail products until they are completely healed.

Related Articles –

When to Remove Acrylic Nails & When to Get it Filled

Allergic Reaction to Acrylic Nails- How to Spot & Treat

6 Beginner Tips to Make Acrylic Nails Easier to Apply

What Happens if You Have Acrylic on too Long without a Break

If you keep on wearing your acrylic nails pass 8 weeks and continue getting fill-ins and without taking a break it can:

1- Make your nails Thinner & Weaker

Your nails can get weaker with constantly being filed and exposed to harsh chemicals like acetone and acid-based primers.

Acetone is very harsh on both your nails and the cuticle skin around them. Constantly using acetone can lead to slower and weaker nail growth.

And too much filing and buffing and using nail primers will leave your nails thin and brittle.

Related Articles –

How to Easily Remove Acrylic Nails Without Acetone

3 Ways to Apply Acrylic Nails at Home- Step by Step W/Video

2- Cause a Nail Infection

Acrylic nails, especially if not applied correctly, can lead to a bacterial or fungal infection.

This happens when:

• The acrylic nails are lifting and dirt and water get lodged under them which is a perfect breeding ground for microbes.
• Nail tools were not properly sterilized before using like cuticle pusher or nail file which can spread infections.

Related Article – 10 Reasons Why Acrylic Nails Lift & How to Fix & Prevent

3- Lead to a nail infection not being spotted

Infections are usually spotted when your nails are discolored. And by constantly covering your nails with acrylic you won’t see if your nails are infected.

4- Develop an Allergic Reaction to Acrylic

Even though you might not be allergic to acrylic nails. You can overtime develop either an allergic or irritation contact dermatitis towards acrylic nails.

This usually happens when the acrylic liquid frequently comes into contact with your skin. This can be avoided by taking breaks from acrylic application and by ensuring none of the acrylic products goes onto your skin.

Contact Dermatitis usually happens to nail techs but if you are frequently getting acrylic nails and some of the products goes on your skin it can happen to you as well.

5- Leads to Acrylic Nails Becoming Discolored

If you don’t take a break from acrylic nails and you keep getting fill-ins then the acrylic nails can even develop a yellowish-brown tinge. You can click here to learn more.

Related Articles:

Can You Use Substitutes Instead of Monomer Acrylic Nails

Using Top Coats for Acrylic Nails -Pros, Cons & Best Brands

Acrylic Overlays: Cost, How to DIY, How Long will they Last

Alternatives to Acrylic Nails

Now even though you might be taking a break from acrylic doesn’t mean your nails still can’t look good.

They are other great nail products that are less harsh on your nails and will allow them to heal. Some of them are:

1. Press on Nails – can give you lovely nail extensions without having to use any harsh chemicals or products.
2. Peel-Off Nail Polishes – these are very safe water-based polishes that are perfect to use on your nails when they are recovering. Click here to learn more about them.

You can check out my entire article on the Alternatives to acrylic nails.

The post Acrylic Nails- How Long to Wear & When to take a Break appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Acrylic nails are one of the most popular forms of nail extension available. And for good reason, since they are very durable and almost every nail salon knows how to apply them.

But did you know that over time they can potentially ruin your nails? Yes, acrylic nails can damage your nails if you don’t take certain precautions.

That’s why in this article I am going share with you how acrylic nails damage your nails & more importantly how to prevent that and keep your nails safe and healthy.

How Acrylic Nails Damage Nails & How to Prevent

Acrylic Nails by themselves haven’t been shown to damage your nails instead the issues usually arise from:

1. When acrylic nails are not removed correctly
2. Using too much of harsh acid-based nail primers
3. Aggressive filing to prep nails before application
4. Use of acrylic products that contain MMA
5. Not giving your nails time to recover in between manicures.
6. Higher risks of getting a nail infection.

If you are DIYing your acrylic nails then these simple tips can help prevent nail damage. Or if you are getting them done in Salon you can use this article to ask for certain things to be done and even walk with your own products. A good nail tech will listen to you.

If your nails are already damaged from acrylic you need to check out my article where I share 7 Tips to Help Heal Nails After Acrylic Nails.

I highly recommend you read my article The Dangers & Effects of Acrylic Nails – Can it Cause Cancer

1- Not Being Removed Correctly

Most of the damage to your nails from most nail products comes during the removal process. This is especially true for the removal of acrylic nails since they require a lot of filing and acetone.

Soaking your nails in acetone for too long and improperly filing off acrylic can severely damage your nails. This is because:

1- Acetone is extremely harsh on your nails, it damages them by dehydrating the nail plate. And if the cuticles are consistently soaked in acetone for too long it can even affect the nail matrix which is the part responsible for nail growth.

2- Filing during removal especially when done aggressively and incorrectly can ruin your nails. This is because it removes a layer of your nail plate, leading to your nails becoming thinner and weaker.

Related Articles:

When to Remove Acrylic Nails & When to Get it Filled

How Much to Remove Acrylic Nails & How Long does it take

Tip 1- Safely Remove Acrylic Without Damaging Your Nails

The best and safest way to remove your acrylic nails without ruining your natural nails is by using a combination of both filing and acetone.

Some nail techs only use one way either filing off or soaking off. But by using a combination, you prevent filing off the nail plate and the need to soak your nails in acetone for too long.

1. First, you use a nail file to remove the top layer of acrylic.
2. And then use acetone to soak off the rest of the acrylic.

Also when using acetone I recommend applying it by soaking a cotton pad with it and then putting the pad directly on your acrylic nails and then wrapping it with foil. This keeps the acetone from going on your cuticles.

You can see how it’s done in the video below.

Video of How to Safely Remove Acrylic Nails

2- Use of Strong Acid Based Nail Primers

Nail Primers are used to prep the nails for the acrylic application they are used to prevent lifting. They are 2 main types of primers used: acid-based ones and non-acid-based ones.

Acid-Based Primers are the primers that tend to work the best which is why nail techs love to use them. But they are very harsh on your nails and they are the ones that cause the most damages

They work by creating microscopic holes on your nail plates which allow the acrylic the grip onto the nail allowing them last longer but these etchings are also bad for the health of your nails.

Related Articles:

Why do Acrylic Nails Hurt & Easy Tips to Relieve the Pain

How to Easily Remove Acrylic Nails Without Acetone

Tip 2- Use Non-Acid Based Primers

I recommend using a non-acid primer these don’t contain any strong acid and are much safer for your nails and still work to prevent lifting.

You can click here to see the price for safe non-acid based primer on Amazon.

Or you can click here to learn more about nail primers.

3- Too Much Filing Was Done Before Acrylic Application

One of the main reasons your nails tend to feel sore after getting acrylic is that they were filed too much or the wrong grit of nail file was used.

Part of preparing your nails for acrylic involves filing. This helps to roughen up your nails and remove the sheen which allows the acrylic to hold on better to your nails.

But too much filing will make your nails thin, brittle, and very weak.

Related Articles –

5 Best Alternatives to Acrylic Nails That are Safer & Better

Acrylic Overlays: Cost, How to DIY, How Long will they Last

Tip 3- Avoid Over Filing & Use a Medium Grit Nail Filer

They are 2 things you need to do when filing your nails for acrylic application

1- Use a medium grit nail file – this will help to remove the sheen from your nails whilst not over-filing your nails.

I recommend a 180 grit when prepping your nails. A low grit such as a 100 or a 80 grit will damage your nails and is usually used to remove acrylic product, not for nail prep.

2- Focus on just removing the sheen from the nails – lightly file your nails to just remove the glossy sheen. You do not need to buff too much especially if you are nails are already damaged.

Related Articles –

Acrylic Nails turn Yellow or Brown: Causes & How to Fix

3 Ways to Apply Acrylic Nails at Home- Step by Step W/Video

4- Using Acrylic Products with MMA

MMA stands for Methyl Methacrylate and is found in some acrylic products, especially the liquid monomer.

Acrylic Products that contain MMA can be:

• Damaging to your nails – MMA products tend to make your acrylic nails very rigid with a strong bond to your nails. This means any and all impact to the acrylic nails can be transferred to the natural nails which can lead to them breaking.
• Very harsh on your skin such as increasing the chances of you developing an allergic reaction to the acrylic
• Cause other health concerns such as dizziness and nausea which is why you need to avoid using them, they are actually banned in some countries. Citation.

MMA is usually found in very cheap and low-quality acrylic products.

Related Article – Allergic Reaction to Acrylic Nails- How to Spot & Treat

Tip 4- Avoid MMA Acrylic Products

You can avoid MMA acrylic nail products by;

1. Sticking with reputable and registered nail salons
2. Reading labels, especially on the liquid monomer, and check for MMA- Monomers should contain EMA which is safer to use
3. If the monomer has an intense fruity odor it could contain MMA which has a very intense odor.

Related Articles –

Best Odorless Monomers- Pros, Cons, Is it Safer & Better

Can You Use Substitutes Instead of Monomer Acrylic Nails

5- Not giving your nails time to recover in between manicures.

If you constantly get acrylic nails without taking a break your nails can get damaged. This is due to how frequently they are being filed and exposed to strong chemicals.

Tip 5- Give Nails time to Recover after Acrylic Removal

I recommend resting your nails for 2-3 weeks after getting an acrylic manicure 2 times in a row or if you have had them on for more than 6 weeks.

This allows your nails to grow naturally without the weight from the acrylic and allows you to give some TLC to them directly by applying cuticle oil.

Related Article: Acrylic Nails- How Long to Wear & When to take a Break

6- Higher Risks of Nail Infections

Acrylic nails will put you at a higher risk of developing a nail infection which can greatly weaken your nails and slow down growth.

Acrylic Nails can lead to infections by:

1. Using products and tools that are unsanitary
2. Lifting – which can allow water to get trapped under the acrylic nails and be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

Tip 6- Use Sanitary Tools & Avoid Lifting

To decrease the risk of getting a nail infection you need to:

1- Ensure that all tools such as cuticle pushers, and acrylic brushes are sanitized correctly.

Ask your nail tech questions, go to reputable salons, and if you are DIYing it ensure you use rubbing alcohol to clean your tools before and after using.

2- Avoid Lifting: I have an entire article where I share tips on How to Prevent Lifting click here to read it.

Bonus Tip

I highly recommend applying a good cuticle oil to your cuticles as often as possible even with acrylic nails on you can apply the oil. Click here to read about which cuticle oil I recommend using for the best results

Cuticle oil will help promote stronger nails and fight off nail infections, click here to read the benefits of cuticle oil.

Can Acrylic Permanently Ruin or Damage Your Nails

Acrylic nails won’t permanently ruin your natural nails, your nails will recover even if they are severely damaged.

You will need to give them time and care and your nails will bounce back.

You can learn how to heal damaged nails by clicking here.

Related Article – Acrylic Toenails & Pedicures -Is it Safe, Cost, Pros & Cons

Citations

Artificial nails: Dermatologists’ tips for reducing nail damage

The post How Acrylic Ruin Your Nails & Tips to Prevent Damages appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.