How Long Does It Take To Get Acrylic Nails

What to Know Before Getting Acrylic Nails

Consider this your pre-appointment guide.

As someone who can't grow out their nails without breaking at least two of them along the way, I get jealous whenever I notice someone's long, perfect, almond or square-shaped nails.

While some people are blessed with naturally strong nails, the ones I long for are often credited to the magic of acrylics. This faux nail method is ideal for anyone who wants long nails, but can't or maintain their ideal nail length or shape on their own. However, they're not exactly effortless: Acrylic nails come with a price tag — and they can damage your natural nails if they're done incorrectly.

All of this considered, it's important to have all the info before you visit the salon, and InStyle has you covered. Whether you're tired of having nails that are too short for fancy nail art or you want your nails to look as dramatic as Kylie Jenner's claws do on Instagram, see what a professional manicurist has to say about the process of getting acrylic nails.

Everything You Need to Know About Acrylic Nails (Update)

So, What Are Acrylic Nails?

To put it simply, acrylic nails are are a mix of powder and liquid monomer that's combined into a blob of dough, shaped onto your nails with a brush, and then air-dried. "Acrylics do not require a lamp to cure, and they're great for changing the shape or extending your nails," says Ariela Zuniga, director of operations at Vanity Projects, a nail salon with locations in New York and Miami.

According to Zuniga, acrylics are ideal for people looking to change the shape of their nails or want more length.

How Are Acrylic Nails Applied?

When you're getting a full set of acrylics, the nail technician will usually put on tips, or use nail forms to achieve a more natural look. "Each acrylic is then shaped as desired and painted with polish," explains Zuniga.

It's safe to get acrylics as often as you wish, but research nail technicians in your area so that you're sure you go to someone who is properly trained and experienced in applying them.

Can You Use Gel Nail Polish on Acrylic Nails?

Whether you're a diehard gel manicure fan or you usually go with regular old polish, the good news is that you can use whichever formula you prefer. The same goes for dip powder, too.

Are Acrylic Nails High Maintenance?

The hard truth: acrylics require a lot of upkeep. Zuniga says that most clients with acrylics generally come in every two to three weeks to get them filled. However, as long as any lifting of the acrylic is filled in, a set can be worn for six to eight weeks before they need to be removed.

How Do You Remove Acrylic Nails?

Removing acrylic nails isn't all that different from taking off a gel manicure. "Acrylics should be removed by soaking each nail in acetone until the acrylic is soft enough to remove gently," says Zuniga. "It is best to have a professional remove them to avoid damage to your nail bed."

Do Acrylic Nails Damage Your Natural Nails?

Acrylics aren't any more damaging than other forms of fake nails — as long as they're properly taken care of. That includes getting them properly removed, regularly filled, and keeping them clean and dry. All of which prevents bacteria from getting into the acrylic and causing infections.

How Much Do Acrylic Nails Cost?

If you think the promise of long, perfectly-shaped nails is worth the maintenance, expect to pay more for acrylic nails than you would for a regular polish change. The exact cost of a set of acrylic nails can vary based on where you live and the the nail salon, but expect to pay over $50. At Vanity Projects a full set costs $75, while a fill-in is $55, in addition to the price of gel polish — if that's your manicure of choice.

Now that you have all of the intel on acrylics, if you're willing to put in the extra work to maintain them, Instagram is full of reference material for your own set.