Sometimes, you don't feel like dragging yourself all the way to the nail salon for a fill-in. Wouldn't it be much simpler if you could do your fill-in at home? Well, you actually can. We've looked into the best methods to use to perform your own DIY acrylic nail fill-in. In this post, we will discuss how.
Filling in your acrylic nails doesn't have to be an all-day project. You can complete it within about 30 to 45 minutes. Here are the basic steps to get it done:
- Buff the acrylic nails
- Apply nail primer
- Combine the acrylic monomer with the powder
- Dip and then apply the acrylic to your nail
- Dry your nails
- Buff your nails
- Apply nail polish
- Apply a topcoat
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Steps To Redo Acrylic Nails
If you have never done your own acrylic nail fill-in before, don't fret. This post will give you all the tips that you need to know about how to properly apply the acrylic so that your nails will look fantastic once you finish. Continue reading to learn more about an easy and quick way to do your own fill-in.
Things you'll need:
- Acrylic powder & liquid monomer
- A nail file
- Acrylic nail primer
- Fingernail clippers
- Nail buffer
- Acrylic nail tips
- Acrylic nail dehydrator
- Nail tip glue
1. Buff the acrylic nails
Take a nail buffer or a fingernail file and buff the acrylic nail at the top near your nail bed. Be sure to thoroughly buff over the area where your natural nail meets the top and of the acrylic. This is where the fill-in acrylic will be placed, so you want the area to be as smooth as possible. Your nails should be clean and dry before you buff them, as this will help from spreading bacteria across your nail bed, which could later lead to infection.
2. Apply nail primer
The purpose of the primer is to help the new coat of nail polish adhere to your nail and the acrylic. Take your bottle of nail primer and gently agitate it to mix up the solution. Then apply the primer to your thumb by first letting a single drop land on the top of your natural nail. Use the applicator brush to spread the primer across your nail and the acrylic nail. Be careful not to get the primer on your fingernails or your cuticle, as it can cause a bit of irritation. Apply anywhere from one to three coats of primer and let it dry for about 5 minutes.
Click here to find a primer on Amazon.
3. Combine the acrylic monomer with the powder
Next, take your acrylic powder and pour it into a small container such as a bottle cap or a garnish bowl. Then grab your acrylic liquid and dip your applicator brush into the liquid. After doing so, take the brush and gently dip it into the acrylic powder until it forms a small ball of taste on the tip. You may need to repeat this step three or four times to get a nice-sized bead of acrylic paste to apply to your nails.
Click here to find acrylic monomer on Amazon.
4. Apply the acrylic to your nail
Take the bead of acrylic paste and apply it to the natural part of your nail. Precision is an absolute must during this step, as you don't want to waste the acrylic solution and have to start from scratch. Carefully spread the acrylic across the natural part of your nail using a downward motion that extends to the acrylic nail's top. When applying subsequent beads, always be sure to start at your natural nail base where it meets the cuticle.
Once you have finished applying the acrylic solution to your thumb, move and apply the fill-in solution to the rest of your fingers and then your other hand. Be sure to brush the solution to the edges of your nail so that your natural nail is completely covered. Also, do not apply too much of the paste at once, as it will cause it to clump up and peel off of your nail within a matter of days. If you do get any of the mixture on your fingernails, take your polish remover and gently wipe it away with a cotton ball--or you can use a cuticle stick.
Find cuticle sticks on Amazon.
5. Dry your nails
After applying the fill-in solution to all of your nails, let them dry for about 10 to 20 minutes. If you have a nail dryer, turn it on, set the timer for 15 minutes, or follow the manufacturer's directions for acrylic nails. Be careful when turning on and handling your nail dryer, as you don't want to accidentally smudge your nails before they have a chance to dry completely.
Click here to see a nail dryer on Amazon.
6. Buff your nails
After your nails have dried, take your nail file or a buffer until the top layer has no bump between your natural nail and the acrylic layer-- it should feel completely smooth when you run your finger over the top of it.
7. Apply nail polish
Now it's time to add polish. Take your preferred polished and gently agitated for about 10 seconds to mix up the solution. Next, apply 1-3 coats of polish to your nails, making sure to spread it evenly over the acrylic. Make sure to let each coat dry before applying the new one. The drying time will vary depending on the polish and how thickly it's applied, but it can range anywhere from 5 minutes to 20 minutes. Try not to apply the polish too heavily, or it may peel off. Each coat should be thin and even.
8. Apply a topcoat
After you have let the last coat of nail polish dry, apply your topcoat. For this step, you will use the same process that you used to apply the nail polish. Apply one or two topcoat coats to help protect your nails from smudges, scratches, and cracks.
If you'd like to see this process step-by-step, check out this video on how to redo acrylic nails:
How Many Times Can You Fill Acrylic Nails?
There is no limit to the number of fill-ins that you can get for your acrylic nails. It's merely a matter of personal preference. However, most nail experts recommend getting a fill-in about every two or three weeks. This is usually when you will notice a gap forming between your cuticle and the acrylic nail, which is simply a result of your natural nails growing. You can have your acrylic nails filled anywhere from three to five times before getting a new set applied.
How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?
Typically, you can expect a new set of acrylic nails to last about three to five weeks. However, it depends on how well the nails were applied and how well you maintain them after the fact. To make your nails last as long as possible, it's best to refrain from activities that may cause them to chip, break, or top off. If you are new to wearing acrylic nails, this may take some practice, but you will get a feel for how to use your hands while protecting your nails within a matter of days.
Can You Repaint Acrylic Nails On Your Own?
Yes, you can re-paint acrylic nails all on your own without going to a salon. If you are looking to save money, this may be especially helpful to learn. To paint your acrylic nails, you'll first need to remove the polish from the previous nail application using a nail file or buffer. You can buy nail polish at local stores such as Walgreens or CVS or online for about $7.
After you have removed the previous color, you simply need to re-paint the nails with your preferred nail color and then add a top coat to seal in the color and protect your nails from chips. The most important thing to remember when re-painting your acrylic nails is to allow the new coats of nail polish and top coat to dry before adding another coat. Failing to do so or applying coats that are too heavy can result in premature peeling.
What Nail Polish Remover Is Best For Acrylic Nails?
Cutex Non-Acetone Nail Polish Remover
Cutex's nail polish remover is one of the best solutions that you can buy. Not only is it gentle on your natural nails, but it can remove acrylic nail polish fairly quickly. If you have sensitive skin or nails that have become irritated, this is the perfect solution.
Click here to find this on Amazon.
Onyx Professional Soak Off Gel Remover
Onyx products are one of the most widely used product lines in the health and beauty industry. And this professional-strength polish is no different. Not only does it quickly break down and remove the polish from your nails, but it also contains grapeseed and vitamin E oil to help nourish your natural nails in the process. You can use it to remove any polish, and you'll find it available at most beauty stores and pharmacies.
L.A Colors Nail Polish Remover Pads
If you prefer to use polish remover pads instead of liquid solution and cotton balls, look no further. This nail polish remover by L.A. Colors can help you to remove acrylic nail polish quickly--and it does so without the harsh odor that many nail polish removers may contain. Though it may take a bit longer than other polishes, it's worth it if you are sensitive to fragrances or are looking for a solution that doesn't completely strip your natural nails of moisture during the removal process.
Click here to see these on Amazon.
Can You Let Acrylic Nails Grow Out?
You can let acrylic nails grow out. However, they can become a burden if they are left on for more than six or seven weeks. In many cases, they may break before they even reach this length of time. As your nail bed grows, the acrylic nail will slide further down, making it more prone to breakage and tears, which can be pretty painful. It's best to get your nails re-applied about every three to five weeks.
Wrapping Things Up
We hope that this post helps you can quickly perform your acrylic nail fill-in in the comfort of your own home. Before you go, be sure to check out some of our other posts:
What Are The Best Nail Fillers For Acrylic Nails?
How To Do Paraffin Manicure At Home [Even Without A Machine]