How to Apply Acrylic Nails Like a Pro

Applying acrylic nails yourself saves money.

Applying acrylic nails at home may take a bit longer than having them applied at a nail salon, but you will never have to wait for an appointment. Additionally, you will have complete control over the shape and size of your acrylic nails. Throughout the process of applying acrylic nails, be careful not to place the chemicals on exposed skin. If you accidentally splash or spill the acrylic primer, liquid or powder on skin, wipe that skin immediately with a damp towel.

Things You'll Need

• Nail brush
• Nail polish remover
• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Buffing block
• Dampen dish
• Hand towel
• Acrylic primer
• Acrylic brush
• Liquid acrylic
• Powdered acrylic
• Nail oil

Instructions

1. Scrub your nails with a nail brush, and use nail polish remover to clear away all traces of old nail polish. Clip your nails as far back as possible without causing discomfort. Doing that minimizes the risk of your natural fingernail tearing if its acrylic nail breaks.

2. File your nails so the edges are free of irregularities. Buff the surface of each nail with a buffing block to provide a smooth surface for adhering the acrylic nails.

3. Fill a dampen dish with warm water. Dip a hand towel in the water, and keep it close so you can use it to clean chemical spills or drips.

4. Apply a couple drops of acrylic primer to the center of each fingernail, and carefully spread it out. Keep the primer away from your cuticles because it may cause an unpleasant burning sensation. Allow the primer to dry for one minute.

5. Dip an acrylic brush into a jar of liquid acrylic, and gently wipe the acrylic brush against the lip of the jar to remove excess liquid acrylic. Use the same acrylic brush to pick up a bit of powder acrylic by twisting the brush to create a small. malleable ball of acrylic.

6. Apply the malleable ball of acrylic to the tip of one fingernail, and use the acrylic brush carefully to spread it over the nail. Apply two more layers of the acrylic to the nail. Shape the acrylic with the brush to achieve a natural appearance. Repeat the procedure for each fingernail.

7. Wave your hands in the air gently for two to three minutes to allow the acrylic to set. Apply nail oil to each cuticle and nail bed to protect them from dryness.

References

• Flawless Complexion: How to Apply Acrylic Nails
• Manicare: How to Apply Acrylic Nails
• Nails Guide; The Way to Apply Acrylic Nails; October 2008