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Looking to boost your #ManiMondays with longer, stronger nails?
You might want to consider making an appointment for acrylic overlays.
Keep reading for everything there is to know about acrylic overlays, straight from nail pros.
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What Are Acrylic Overlays?
They are a popular, protective nail technique designed to strengthen and support the natural nail.
Think of acrylic overlays as the no-makeup makeup of the nail world.
Other disadvantages and risks associated with acrylic overlays includeallergic reactions, infections, and time-sensitive maintenance routines.
Once your nails are prepped, the manicurist will apply a dehydrator or primer to remove excess oils.
Once hardened, the acrylic will be filed and shaped.
Maintenance
Acrylic overlays aren’t removed during each nail appointment; they’re filled in.
But if you wait too long, it will no longer be considered a maintenance appointment.
“Understanding the maintenance schedule is crucial,” De Los Santos says.
However, if you go beyond two weeks, it’s considered a rebalance.
Some nail technicians may view this as an additional service, potentially incurring extra costs."
“Nails are jewels, not tools,” she exclaims.
But if you feel patient enough for a DIY, Schwechler says to grab a bottle of acetone.
“like don’t ever let anyone, or yourself, rip or pry your acrylics off.
This is extremely damaging to the natural nail plate and should never be done.”
(More of a visual learner?Kandalec shared her go-to removal technique on Instagram.)
In general, acrylic overlays are more durable than gel manicures and about on par with dip powder.
Each of these techniques has benefits and drawbacks, though.
Acrylic overlays are unbeatably strong but gel manicures are cheaper and easier to remove.
Dip powder manicures can be reapplied freshly with each appointment, reducing the risk of infection compared to overlays.
Ultimately, it all comes down to preference.
“Acrylic overlays are not for everyone, just like dip or gel,” De Los Santos says.
They can help strengthen the nails, heal damage, and encourage growth.
