How to Activate Acrylic Powder
Acrylic powder is used in the application of false nails. It is applied to the end of the nail to create a French nail design. The acrylic powder needs to be activated with a chemical, known as a monomer. Combining the two substances creates a reaction, causing the mixture to harden and form a tough resin. The result is a plastic nail tip which resembles the strength of a natural nail. Before you activate the powder, prepare your nail by applying the nail plate. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Fill your dappen dish 3/4 full with monomer liquid. This is the chemical used to activate the powder.
-
2
Submerge the brush bristles in the liquid. This has two purposes: to releases air pockets and prime the brush. Wipe the brush against a paper towel to remove the excess liquid.
-
-
3
Paint a thin coat of primer onto the nail, if your acrylic system demands it. Leave the primer to dry. This might not be necessary if the acrylic incorporates a primer already. Check the instructions with your acrylic powder for its requirements.
-
4
Dip the end of the brush in the monomer liquid. Roll the end of the brush in the acrylic powder. Rotate the end of the brush lightly to pick up a small bead of acrylic powder. As you do this, count down from three to one. This gives enough time for the liquid to activate with the powder.
-
5
Transfer the activated acrylic powder to the tip of the nail. It needs to cover the top-third zone of the nail. Place the bead of liquid and powder onto the top. Wait for between 5 and 7 seconds for the mixture to settle and be manipulated.
-
6
Smooth out the bead of acrylic powder and monomer across the top third of the nail. Press lightly onto the bead, and brush it across the nail gently. Dab the brush onto the paper towel again to remove the excess moisture.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit Goodshoot/Goodshoot/Getty Images
