How to Do Acrylic Nails

Fake nails can be applied at home with the right steps.

Acrylic nails are fakes that attach to a real nail. It should improve the look of the nail since the acrylic can be shaped and colored to the exact specifications of the user. A salon can apply acrylic nails, but it is possible to apply them at home.

Things You'll Need

• Nail File (course grain)
• Cuticle scissors
• Orange stick
• Cuticle cream or oil
• Nail polish and remover
• Acrylic powder
• Acrylic solution
• Base coat
• Top coat
• Brush
• Buffer

Instructions

1. Remove any existing nail polish with a non-acetone remover. Buff the tops of the nails, and use the orange stick to push back the cuticles.

2. Apply a small dab of nail glue to the tip of the fake nails. Apply pressure to the glue for 30 seconds. Cut and file the nail to the to length desired.

3. Dip a brush in the acrylic solution, and then into the acrylic powder. A pea-sized amount of this mix will do.

4. Press the acrylic paste on the french tip and wet the brush in the solution. Smooth the paste evenly across the natural nail tip. Repeat until the nail bed is completely covered. Do not get any of the solution on the cuticles. Apply cuticle cream or nail polish to avoid exposing the cuticles to the chemicals.

5. Allow the acrylic to dry. After 10 minutes, file the sides with a grit nail file and shape the nails to look natural. Scrub the nails with a nailbrush and dip them in soapy water to get rid of any leftover acrylic dust.

Tips & Warnings

• The acrylic will have a strong smell. Apply it in a well-ventilated area.

References

• Flawless Complexion: How to Apply Acrylic Nails