Fresh-looking nails are the perfect way to complete any look and show off more of your fashionista side. Acrylic nails are a gorgeous nail enhancement that is applied by a nail technician. The acrylic nails are made from a combination of liquid acrylic and a powdered acrylic blend that is fashioned into a particular nail shape. Once it has been applied, the acrylic formula hardens on the nail and it can be filed and buffed to your liking.
You should get a new set of acrylic nails every 3 to 6 months. The longevity of your acrylic nails depends on how frequently you use your hands. Your acrylic nails need more refreshing if you use your hands and nails more frequently.
If you still have some more questions about acrylic nails and how to keep them looking pristine, then you're in the right place. In this guide, we'll discuss these things and more in greater detail. Just keep reading!
This article may include affiliate links and elements that were carefully created by our team using advanced ai to help you envision the best style advice.
Frequency Of A New Set Of Acrylic Nails
You should get a new set of acrylic nails every 3 to 6 months. Sometimes you can wait even longer. It truly depends on how well you take care of your acrylic nails and if you want to change things up. Acrylic nails are extremely durable and allow you to enjoy tons of customized designs.
While it is possible to just keep filling your set of acrylics, it's a great idea to have them taken off after those 3 to 6 months. Once they're taken off, your nail technician can check the health of your natural nails and take care of any abnormalities. You can also cut your natural fingernails without fear of breakage. Cutting back your natural fingernails before the next set of acrylic nails boosts their durability.
Another way to prolong the life of your acrylic nails is to clean them daily. Inevitably, gunk will get under your nails throughout the day. So, to prevent damage to your nails, you'll need to participate in some upkeep. Wash underneath your nails to keep them looking fresh.
The acrylic nail application takes a couple of hours. So be prepared for investing time into the process!
What Is The Difference Between A Fill And A Full Set?
An acrylic fill is performed when your acrylic nails have started to grow out and nail growth is exposed at the nail bed. The nail is shortened by filing and buffing to reshape it then the part of the nail that has new growth gets a new acrylic application. A fill can also be done on broken or damaged nails. Getting acrylic fills is much cheaper than getting a whole new set.
A full set of acrylics is going through the entire process of applying completely new nails. This process is more time-intensive.
Should I Get A Fill Or A New Set?
The answer to this question depends on the wear of your nails. If your nails are going to need a lot of TLC to look perfect again, you may want to consider getting a new set. Or if you want to change up the look of them.
We recommend that you get a new set if your nails start to show signs of lifting, have air bubbles underneath them, and/or are starting to look yellow. Getting a new set of acrylics is not cheap, so opt for a filler if possible.
If you only have one or a couple of damaged or chipped nails, then a fill will be sufficient. There's no need to go through the whole process of getting a new set if there are only a few minor things that need to be corrected.
How Many Times Can You Get A Fill On Acrylic Nails?
You can get a fill on acrylic nails as often as you'd like. We recommend that you get a fill once there is a visible gap between your cuticle and your existing acrylic set, about every 2 to 3 weeks.
Once you have filled your acrylics 3 or 4 times, it's probably time to get a new set. You have more control over the strength and look of your nails this way.
Can You Wear Acrylic Nails Forever?
Technically, yes. You can constantly get fillers or put on a new set. Wearing acrylic nails forever requires lots of maintenance though. If you're up for the task, by all means, go for it! Your style will certainly thank you.
Filing your acrylic nails helps with their upkeep. Keeping a shorter length makes the acrylics easier to manage, too. At-home nail filers are always an option.
Electric Nail Drill
Click here to see more on Amazon.
Keep in mind that neglecting their care can result in painful nail breakage. Letting the nails grow without maintenance make them top-heavy. A top-heavy nail is more susceptible to painful breakage. And nobody wants that.
Salon professionals are key to prolonging your acrylics. But, if you don't have time to go to the salon, you can trim your acrylics on your own. You can't use regular nail clippers though. Invest in specially designed clippers for acrylics.
Acrylic Nail Clipper
Click here to see more on Amazon.
How Long Should I Wait To Get Acrylic Nails Again?
You can wait as long or as little as you wish. The only time you'll have to wait to get a new set of acrylics is if your nails have been filed too short or have broken. Let your nails grow to an appropriate length for the acrylic application.
Your nail technician will be able to tell you if your nails need to wait a little longer before having acrylics applied, too.
Do Fingernails Need To Breathe?
Nope! While it may seem like that makes the most sense, your fingernails don't need to "breathe." Live cells do not make up your fingernails. Given this fact, it's not necessary to have bare nails for any length of time. If you take care of your nails, your fingers will be kept in good health.
The only time to let your fingernails "breathe" is if your acrylic nails were removed poorly. Damaged nails need time to recover. Fresh, healthy nails perform better with acrylics anyway.
Apply nail strengthener to increase the wellness and durability of your natural nails. This, without a doubt, allows for your acrylic nails to last longer. Strong nails result in a much more satisfying outcome.
Nail Strengthener
Click here to see more on Amazon.
Sometimes you may want to leave your nails bare, though. It can feel refreshing to go with bare-nails for a little while. It's one less thing to keep up with!
Do Your Real Nails Grow Under Acrylic Nails?
Yes! Even with acrylics on, your nails don't stop their natural growing process. In fact, you'll probably start to notice just how quickly your real nails really start to grow as you catch a glimpse of the gap between the colored acrylics and your cuticles.
Since your real nails are constantly growing, it's necessary to get acrylic fillers or a new set every few months to maintain the look.
In Closing
Have fun with your acrylic nails and let them help you express your personal style. Let us know in the comment section below how you like to wear your acrylic nails. Before you go, don't miss out on these other amazing style guides:
