Acrylic nails, a staple in the beauty industry, offer a durable and versatile option for those seeking to extend the length and enhance the appearance of their nails. Composed of a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer, acrylic nails create a hard protective layer over the natural nails when applied, which can then be shaped and painted according to your customer’s preference. While acrylics provide a stunning finish and can last for weeks, their longevity can be significantly influenced by how they are cared for post-application. For professionals and clients alike, understanding how to prolong the life of acrylic nails is crucial for maintaining their aesthetic appeal and integrity. Here are Glitterbels' seven key tips for maintaining acrylic nails for ultimate longevity, something which your clients will ultimately thank you for.
1. Regular Maintenance is Key
Encourage your customers to schedule regular infills with a professional technician, i.e., you! As their natural nails grow, a gap forms between the acrylic and the nail bed, which can harbour moisture and lead to lifting or infections.
2. Practice Good Nail Hygiene
Nails should be kept clean and dry. Moisture and dirt can compromise the adhesive qualities of acrylic nails, leading to lifting or fungal infections. After washing hands or coming into contact with water, nails should be thoroughly dried.
3. Protect Your Nails
Advise the use of gloves when engaging in activities that could damage the nails, such as gardening or cleaning with harsh chemicals. Physical trauma or exposure to strong detergents can weaken the acrylic and cause it to lift or break.
4. Moisturise Regularly
Advise customers to apply cuticle oil and hand cream regularly to keep the skin around their nails and the nails themselves hydrated. Dryness can lead to cracks and breaks, not just in the acrylic but also in the natural nails underneath.
5. Nails Are Not Tools
Clients can be tempted to use their acrylic nails to open cans or remove stickers, but this can cause significant damage. Such actions can lead to lifting or even breakage. As our head of education, Charli Jepson says ‘Nails are jewels and not tools!’.
6. Be Mindful of the Products You Use
A general rule of thumb is if a product can harm your skin, it can harm your nails. Products that contain alcohol or substances like bleach will damage the longevity of your acrylic manicure.
7. Opt for Professional Removal
When it's time to say goodbye to acrylic nails, advise your customers to resist the urge to remove them at home. Picking or prying them off can damage natural nails. Professional removal minimises damage and leaves natural nails in the best possible condition.
Whilst acrylic nails are a robust beauty enhancement, their longevity heavily depends on the care they receive post-application. By following these guidelines, your clients can enjoy beautiful acrylics for longer. Giving clients the right advice for the care of their acrylics not only helps in maintaining the integrity of the work done but also enhances client satisfaction and loyalty (hopefully to you, their favourite nail tech!). Remember, the beauty of acrylics is not just in their initial appearance; with the right care and maintenance, they can look great for weeks.