Jan 27 , 2025

What Is an Acrylic Manicure?

What Is an Acrylic Manicure?

Long before gels and dips and socially acceptable press-on nails exploded on TikTok, acrylics were the nail enhancement of choice for anyone who wanted a longer look or wanted to add color or art to their natural nails.acrylic manicure But even though the manicure staple is a go-to for many, it's not without its risks. We asked experts to share everything you need to know about acrylic nails and how to get the best results from them, whether that's a full set or just a single manicure.

What Is an Acrylic Manicure?

An acrylic manicure is a service that includes false nails, which are applied to the tips of your real nails and topped with a clear coating to create the appearance of length. You can find them in any shape or color, from traditional French tips to edgy coffin-shaped nails. They are a great option for people who are not able to maintain a desired nail length on their own or for those who have damaged nails that are not strong enough to support long, beautiful nails.

The best thing about acrylics is that they're customizable to fit your personal style and nail health needs. "It's important to work with a nail technician who understands your nail health and can provide you with the right tools, products and techniques," says CND co-founder Jan Arnold. She adds that you should also choose a salon that ensures proper ventilation because all nail products have chemicals that can be harmful without adequate airflow.

According to Lee, a typical acrylic manicure lasts six to eight weeks and will need to be filled every two to three weeks, depending on your nail growth. This will help keep your nails looking healthy and also prevent them from lifting. She says that when lifting occurs, it is important to schedule a fill as soon as possible because the lift will only worsen over time.

It is also a good idea to wear gloves when performing tasks that may damage your nails. It's also important to keep your nails clean and moisturized. And, as with all nail services, it's essential to avoid picking at your nails, which can damage the acrylics and your natural nails.

While acrylics are safe to use as long as they're applied and removed properly, Hanna notes that a less toxic alternative like gel is becoming increasingly popular. The pros of gel include a more natural-looking appearance, a thinner layer that makes it easy to remove, and a range of customization options, such as glitter, pearls and chains.

Both gel and acrylics can be topped with nail art, but gel is better for those who want a more subtle look. "With gel, you can apply it thinly and add more detail, whereas with acrylics you can build it up and make it really bold," says Nail Artist Yvette Pham of CJ Artistry.

Pham estimates that a base acrylic manicure typically costs $30 to $70, but it can go up significantly if your nails are longer and you add art or other additional services. You'll also need to factor in the cost of the gel polish, which can vary widely by location and skill level.