What are Acrylic Nails? A combination of liquid monomer and powder polymer is what forms the acrylic nail. Essentially it forms a hard protective layer over your natural nail. Once it is exposed to air the protective layer hardens fully, thus creating a “fake nail.”
Acrylic nails have become quite trendy over the past two years. The nails, most commonly called “Acrylics” by nail fanatics, have become a popular trend amongst teens and young women.
Acrylics appeal to various people simply because they can be manipulated to look the way customer desires and can increase nail length without the hassle and care of growing them out. But, like with all things in life, everything has positives and negatives, pros and cons.
Pro: Long-Lasting. Once the acrylic has dried your talons are a force to be reckoned with. The durability of acrylic nails is probably one of the greatest benefits when it comes to everyday life.
Con: Natural Nails have to endure. The acrylic on top of your nails leaves little room for natural nails to continue to grow healthy. The acrylic layer does allow for your nails to grow exceptionally long, but once it’s off, the only thing you’ll find is paper thin nails that are ready to break off. Your natural nail will look anything but healthy once you’ve removed the acrylic– starting the vicious cycle of applying a new set of acrylics, breaking not just your natural nails, but your bank account as well.
Pro: Can get Creative. You can do anything you want with your acrylics. You can customize the size: shape, color, finish, and even accessories (if you want) of your choosing. It’s a Build-A-Bear for nails! Think of all the possible designs, you’re paying for the nails, why not go crazy with it?
Con: Maintenance. As time goes on, getting your nails filled and redone can start to be a bit of a nuisance. If your nails grow faster than average, then visiting the nail salon will definitely start to be an inconvenience. Maintenance for acrylics also tends to make a significant dent in the bank account. I recommend you set aside some money that only goes towards your nails. You’ll need it!
Do acrylics have to be removed and replaced? Yes, your our acrylics have to be removed! If you were to leave them on, your natural nails would grow under your acrylics causing your nails to look like filthy jagged talons or the acrylics would simply come off because they no longer stick after a certain time period. The amount of time you keep your acrylics usually depends on the amount of stress you put on your hands throughout the day. The general time span to wear your acrylics is 2-3 weeks, after that, it’s back to the nail salon for you.
Acrylic nails are nice to wear, but they’re not worth having chipped, unhealthy nails. I’m not saying that people shouldn’t wear them, just that they need to take little breaks in-between. If breaks are taken in-between nail appointments, there is no risk of causing long-term harm to your natural nails.
Yes, they are very strong, you can do house chores without problems. But I would advise caution when it comes time for replacing acrylics. You have to be patient while removing them, do not use force because you can damage nail bed.