Much like normal polish and gel polish, acrylic nails don't last forever. Artificial nails tend to break or flake off earlier than you might want. If you want your acrylic nails to last longer, make sure to keep them clean, use a top coat and more.
In this article
What Are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are nails made from a mix of liquid and powder monomer. This creates a malleable, dough-like substance. This makes it easy to shape your nails the way you want them.
How Long do Acrylic Nails Last?
Acrylics last between six to eight weeks. You will need to refill them every two to three weeks depending on how fast your nails grow. You can also refill your acrylic nails as they begin to grow out to keep the appearance of the nails for longer.
What Causes Acrylic Nails to Not Last as Long
The length of time your nails last depends on a variety of factors, from how they were applied to how you upkeep them. Here are some common reasons your acrylic nails may be chipping, breaking or popping off:
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Application
One of the main reasons for acrylic nails not lasting as long is application. Mistakes or oversights during the application process can cause your nails to pop off a lot sooner than expected. This can include not properly sanding the bed of your nails beforehand or using a weak glue.
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Weak Products
Another issue can be with the acrylic powder itself. Not all acrylic powders are the same, and bad quality acrylic powder that has been diluted can cause chips and cracks early on.
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Not Prepping Your Nails
It is crucial to make sure that your nails are properly prepped to apply acrylic nails. First, remove all existing product with a nail file and buff the top of your nails with a nail buffer.
Have a nail dehydrator and acid-free primer on hand. Primers strengthen and increase the durability of your nails, as well as prevent yellowing over time. A dehydrator will make it easier for the adhesive to seal the acrylic to your real nail.
How to Make Acrylic Nails Last Longer
Here are six steps to making your acrylic nails last longer, either before going to the salon or at home:
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Do Your Research For A Good Nail Technician
Making a set of acrylics last begins even before getting them done. Not all salons are created equal, and you want a highly-rated nail technician who knows what they're doing to give you your new set of nails. We also recommend trimming your cuticles at home before going, because some nail technicians don't do cuticle work and instead skip to sanding the surface of your nail.
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Keep Them Clean
Dirt and oils can often creep beneath your nails and between the acrylics and your real nails. This can create space and cause your acrylics to pop off. Make sure to keep your hands and nails clean by washing your hands with soap and warm water. Use a nail brush to scrub underneath your nails and a wooden manicure stick to get larger debris out. Everything you need to clean under your nails can be found in this disposable manicure kit.
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Use a Top Coat
Top coats are an important step that you shouldn't skip when doing your nails, even when it takes long to do acrylic nails. A top coat is made to protect the nail polish on your acrylic nails to keep it from chipping. Once the polish is dry, apply a top coat for extra protection for the liquid monomer. This will extend the dry time, but it'll be worth it!
Any top coat will do, but for extra long wear we like Morgan Taylor's React Top Coat. It's specifically formulated to extend the wear of nail polish, making it chip resistant for up to 10 days. Best of all, it has the durability of a gel top coat without needing a UV light.
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Moisturize Hands
Moisturizing your hands and fingers is a good idea anyway, but especially when you have acrylics. The more frequent washing can cause your skin to dry and crack. Use moisturizer and use cuticle oil frequently to keep your hands and nails moisturized to prevent chipping.
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Wear Gloves
Taking care of your acrylics is one of the simplest ways to make them last longer. If you work with your hands, wear gloves and/or choose shorter acrylics to avoid breakage and chipping.
This is also true if you work with chemicals. If you clean frequently or for a living, the chemicals you work with can affect your acrylic nails, so make sure to wear gloves.
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Take a Break Every 2-3 Months
While fake nails and acrylics are fun, you will need to give your natural nail bed a break every once in a while. Give your nails a break every 2-3 months from acrylics, gels and press on nails to let your natural nails grow. The health of your natural nail is key to maintaining your acrylics.
While you let your nails grow, you can still use regular polish or a nourishing top coat.
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Refill Your Nails Every 2 Weeks
Depending on the speed of your nail growth, you will generally need to refill your acrylics every 2 weeks. This maintenance is especially important to protect your natural nails underneath. As your nails grow out, space will appear between your cuticle and acrylic. Not filling in the new space makes it easier for acrylics to snap off, and sometimes take part of your natural nail with it.
You won't need to redo your full set of nails every two weeks, though. Simply fill them in or have them filled at a salon if you don't feel comfortable doing them at home.
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If you decide on visiting a nail salon instead of doing your nails at home, be sure to read reviews and scout out the best place. You will want a certified nail technician with experience and clean tools.
