Everything you need to know about acrylic nails

While acrylic nail application involves a lot of chemicals, if done safely and with proper ventilation, the process shouldn’t pose any risks. As with any beauty procedure, make sure the environment is clean and all the tools have been properly sterilised. The removal process, on the other hand, can cause problems if done incorrectly, including injury to the nail bed and even infections. Proper, gentle removal is key, ideally by a professional nail technician.

How do you take off acrylics?

Our advice? Get it done professionally by experts who know what they’re doing. Normally, they’ll start by using an electric file to polish off the top layer of acrylic before wrapping nails in acetone-soaked cotton wool and foil for 15 minutes. Then, they’ll use a cuticle pusher to gently ease the acrylic away.

If you have to do it at home, though, check out our step by step guide to safely removing acrylic nails and keep scrolling to make sure you have all the necessary equipment to not only make the most of your acrylic manicure but also to remove it when the time comes. The main thing is do not peel them (say it with us). 

Which is better acrylic or gel nails?

It’s easy to get confused between acrylics and hard gels, especially since more and more salons are offering both. The two share a lot in common – both are part of the acrylic family, last for weeks on end and can be used to add length to nails. The difference lies in the type of plastic they’re made of. Acrylics tend to be stronger, and gels require a UV light to set them into place.

How much do acrylic nails cost?

This will depend on your area and whether you have add-ons such as nail art, but a set of acrylics should start from around £25.

If you’re having problems with nail ridges or white spots on your nails, we got you.