{"id":38596,"date":"2026-06-11T12:13:24","date_gmt":"2026-06-11T11:13:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.treatwell.be/en/treatment-files\/?p=38596"},"modified":"2026-06-12T12:22:16","modified_gmt":"2026-06-12T11:22:16","slug":"acrylic-nails-ultimate-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.treatwell.be/en/treatment-files\/acrylic-nails-ultimate-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Acrylic nails: your ultimate guide to styles, care and what to expect"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Do you ever do a double-take when you see someone\u2019s incredible nails and immediately need to know everything? The perfect almond shape, the glossy finish, the kind of length that looks effortless but definitely isn\u2019t natural. Chances are, those are acrylics. Whether you\u2019re after extra length, a stronger foundation for nail art, or simply want nails that are reliably robust, acrylic nails are one of the most popular enhancements out there. This guide covers everything, including what they are, how they\u2019re applied, the right aftercare, trending designs and how acrylics compare to other nail treatments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are acrylic nails?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Acrylic nails are enhancements made by mixing a liquid monomer with a powder polymer to create a malleable paste which hardens to a strong layer when applied over your natural nails or extensions. They air-cure without a UV lamp (one less thing to think about), and this sets them apart from gel formulas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Acrylics are popular for good reason. The chemical reaction creates a durable, resilient surface that resists cracks and chips. This makes them a great choice for nail biters, weak nails, and anyone wanting dramatic length or intricate designs. Your nail tech can use full tips for extra length, sculpt with forms for custom shapes, or apply overlays purely for strength. Plus, modern formulas have come a long way, with lower odour and improved consistency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Why choose acrylic nails?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Acrylics are the workhorse of nail enhancements. They provide serious durability for weeks of typing, texting and daily life (yes, even the intensive group chat scrolling). The ability to create dramatic shapes means you\u2019re not limited to what your natural nails can manage on their own. They\u2019re widely available and often more affordable compared to other enhancements, which is why you\u2019ll find acrylic services in nearly every nail salon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They can be filed into virtually any shape, like almond, coffin, square and stiletto. If you\u2019ve got weak nails, you\u2019re a reformed nail biter, or you want a strong foundation for bold designs and embellishments, acrylics are your best bet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Book your acrylic nails on Treatwell<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What goes into a professional acrylic set?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ever wondered what all those pots and brushes on the nail table are for? Here\u2019s a quick look at what a professional works with to create acrylic nails, and why quality matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Professional sets include an array of products and tools (a wonderland for nail techs). They\u2019ll have acrylic powders (clear, pink, white and colours), a compatible liquid monomer, specialist brushes, dehydrator, primer, nail tips or forms, files, buffers and a sealing top coat. The key ingredient to look out for? MMA-free monomers. Reputable salons always use ethyl methacrylate (EMA) formulas, which are safer for your natural nails and far less likely to cause allergic reactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The quality of the products your salon uses really impacts how long your set lasts, how it looks, and how healthy your nails stay underneath. Cheaper products can cause lifting, uneven results and need more frequent repairs. A good salon invests in professional-grade supplies, and you\u2019ll notice the difference from the first appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What happens during your acrylic nail appointment?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

An acrylic nail appointment starts with a nail tech pushing back your cuticles and lightly buffing the nail surface to remove oils and create a good base for adhesion. A dehydrator and primer go on first (skip this step and you\u2019ll have lifting within days, which is why the prep matters so much). If you\u2019re having extensions, then your tech will apply them next. Then the liquid monomer is mixed with the powder to create small beads of acrylic which are placed on the nail plate and smoothed across the nail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A skilled professional will build a strong apex (the highest point of the nail) to prevent cracking. Think of it like an arched bridge: the curve distributes pressure and stops breaks. This is one of the things that separates a decent set from a brilliant one, and it\u2019s exactly why professional application is worth it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Once the acrylic is set, everything gets filed and buffed into your chosen shape and a top coat seals it all for shine and protection. The whole process typically takes around an hour for a full set, and you walk out with nails that look incredible and feel strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Acrylic nail fills<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Fills every two to three weeks keep your acrylics looking fresh and prevent lifting. During a fill, any lifted product is removed, the cuticle area is prepped, and fresh acrylic is added to rebalance the shape and structure. Keeping up with your fills also minimises gaps where moisture can get trapped (which reduces the risk of fungal issues, so don\u2019t skip them).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process involves filing down the old acrylic, cleaning and priming the regrowth area, then blending new product in for a seamless finish. Your lifestyle and the speed of your nail growth both affect how often you\u2019ll need a fill. If you\u2019re someone with hands in water frequently (nurses, cleaners, keen dishwashers), you might need fills closer to the two-week mark. For everyone else, three weeks is usually the sweet spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How to care for your acrylic nails<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The good news is that looking after acrylics is straightforward. Moisturise daily and wear gloves during chores. And if the weather turns cold, your cuticles will thank you for a little extra oil. Just remember to avoid using your nails as tools (they\u2019re not bottle openers or parcel tape removers, no matter how invincible they feel).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For regular upkeep:<\/p>\n\n\n\n