Doing your own acrylic nails can save you a lot of money.
If you have your acyclic nails professionally done often, the cost can be quite expensive after awhile. Do-it-yourself kits are sold in many drugstores for a price that is considerably less. While the at-home nail kits can take time, patience, and a little practice, the savings you will realize make it worth learning to do your nails yourself. If you are ambidextrous, or can at least paint you nails on both hands, you will be able to use an at-home acrylic nail kit.
Instructions
1. Open your acrylic nail kit and set out all of its contents.Your kit should include acrylic solution, acrylic powder, nail tips, and a sculpting brush.
2. Match the nails that come with the kit with your natural nail. Line them up so that you know exactly which nail will be going on which finger and also so they are easily accessible.
3. Remove any existing nail polish using nail polish remover and cotton balls. If you are wearing tips already, you will need to soak your nails in acetone, or solution that removes acrylic nails, for about 30 minutes. You should let them soak off and dissolve in the solution. Do not rip them off; you will damage your natural nail.
4. Scuff your nail surface so that it is rough. Brush off any dust and wash your hands. Dry them completely before continuing.
5. Pour a small amount of the acrylic solution in a bowl. About 1 tbsp. is a good amount to start with.
6. Dip the brush into the solution, then quickly dip it into the acrylic powder. Do this so that the brush is a right angle with the powder. This should form a small ball on the brush.
7. Place the acrylic ball on the nail, approximately to the center. Using the brush, spread it so that it coats the entire nail.
8. Place the selected nail tip and dip it into the bowl of acrylic solution. Place on the tip of your nail. Hold it in place for about 15 seconds to ensure that it adheres to your natural nail.
9. Repeat these steps until you have adhered all of the tips to your fingers.
10. Allow your acrylic nails to dry for at least 15 minutes. Read the recommendations on the box of the nail kit to find the specific drying time.
11. Buff your acrylic nails using the cushion nail file. This will remove any bumps left behind by the acrylic solution and powder. Use the nail filer if you wish to change the shape or remove a snag from the tips.
12. Wash your hands to remove any powder. Dry them completely.
13. Paint your acrylic nails with the color that you selected. Put on two coats to ensure that you get the true color of the polish. Follow it with a clear top coat and allow the nails to dry for at least 20 minutes.
