How To Do Acrylic Nails At Home Step by Step [THE Guide] (2024)

So you want to do your acrylic nails at home, do you. But you are not sure what you need to use, and then how to use such supplies.

I get it.

I’ve been there.

Even though I’ve since become a certified manicurist and nail technician.

That was over 15 years ago.

But I understand how it feels. And what it’s like.

I remember it well.

So today, I’d like to share with you my expertise and let you in on some insider secrets that will help you create the acrylic nails at home (for a fraction of the price than at the salon) – well at least over the long-term!

What Do You Need To Do Acrylic Nails At Home?

Before we start, let’s make sure we’ve got all the necessary tools and materials.

Doing acrylic nails at home might seem intimidating at first, but once you’ve got all the right gear, you’ll be halfway there.

Here’s what you need:

• Acrylic nail kit: These kits usually include acrylic powder, acrylic liquid, nail tips, and a nail brush. If your chosen kit doesn’t include these items, you’ll need to purchase them separately.
• Nail file and buffer: These tools will help shape your nails and create a smooth surface for the acrylic to adhere to.
• Nail primer and dehydrator: These two are crucial to prep your nails and ensure that the acrylic nails last longer.
• Nail glue: To attach the nail tips.
• Cuticle pusher and nipper: For maintaining your nail bed.
• Nail polish and top coat: To give your acrylic nails the perfect finish.

Remember, quality matters.

The better your tools and materials, the better your end result will be.

How To Do Your Acrylic Nails At Home

Now that you have everything you need, let’s get started. Follow these steps closely, and remember – patience is key.

Step 1: Prep Your Nails

Start by cleaning your nails thoroughly.

Use a nail dehydrator to remove oils that might affect the adhesion of the acrylic.

Next, push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher and trim any excess skin with a nipper.

This will ensure that the acrylic covers the entire nail surface.

Step 2: Shape Your Nails

File your nails to your desired shape. Be sure to buff the surface lightly.

This will help the acrylic adhere better.

Step 3: Apply Nail Tips

Choose a nail tip that fits each nail perfectly.

Apply a small amount of nail glue on the tip, then press it onto your natural nail.

Make sure it’s straight and firmly attached. Trim the tips to your desired length.

Step 4: Apply Nail Primer

Apply a thin layer of nail primer on your natural nail.

This will help the acrylic to stick better and protect your nail from potential damage.

Step 5: Mix and Apply the Acrylic

Combine the acrylic powder and liquid as per the instructions on your kit.

Using your nail brush, dip it into the mixture and apply it onto your nail, starting at the base and sweeping upwards.

Make sure to apply it evenly, but avoid getting it on your skin or cuticles.

Step 6: Shape the Acrylic

Before the acrylic hardens completely, shape it using your nail brush.

If necessary, you can apply additional layers of acrylic until you achieve the desired look.

Step 7: File and Buff

Once the acrylic has fully hardened, file your nails into your desired shape.

Buff the surface to smooth out any bumps or irregularities.

Step 8: Paint Your Nails

Now the fun part! Paint your acrylic nails with your favorite nail polish.

Finish it off with a clear top coat to add a beautiful shine and protect the color.

Remember, practice makes perfect.

Step 9: Maintenance and Care

Maintaining your acrylic nails is just as important as the application process.

Keep your nails hydrated by applying cuticle oil regularly – this helps to prevent lifting.

Avoid using your nails as tools, and wear gloves when cleaning or doing any manual work.

If you notice any lifting, don’t try to fix it yourself; this could lead to damage.

Instead, visit a professional or remove the acrylic nails properly and apply a new set.

Step 10: Removing Your Acrylic Nails

When it comes time to remove your acrylics, don’t force or bite them off – this can severely damage your natural nails.

Instead, soak them in an acetone-based nail polish remover until the acrylic becomes soft and can be gently removed.

After removal, give your nails some time to breathe before applying a new set.

Tips and Suggestions When Doing Acrylic Nails At Home

I’m so excited to share some of my top tips and suggestions with you.

These nuggets of wisdom come from years of experience and will make your at-home acrylic nails journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Designate a Working Area and Keep It Clean and Decluttered

One of the best things you can do when doing acrylic nails at home is to create a dedicated workspace.

Having a clean and decluttered area not only makes the process more manageable, but it also reduces the risk of misplacing or spilling your materials.

Choose a well-lit area and lay out all the tools and materials you’ll need.

Make sure the surface is clean and free from dust or debris, as these could get trapped in your acrylic.

Also, remember to protect your working surface from any spills or stains by placing a mat or some old newspapers underneath.

Practice on Yourself, Friends, or Dummy Hand First

Practice truly does make perfect when it comes to acrylic nails. If you’re new to this, consider practicing on a dummy hand or even on your own nails first.

This will give you a feel for the materials and techniques, without the pressure of getting it right the first time.

Practicing on friends is also a fun option, and it allows you to get used to working on nails other than your own.

Plus, who wouldn’t love a free manicure? Just remember to be patient with yourself.

It might take a few tries to get it right, but don’t worry – each attempt will bring you one step closer to mastering the art of acrylic nails.

Take Your Time

It’s important to remember that doing acrylic nails is not a race.

Take your time with each step, ensuring that you’ve completed it to the best of your ability before moving on.

Rushing through the process can lead to mistakes or poor-quality nails.

Learn From Your Mistakes

If something goes wrong, don’t stress! Remember that every mistake is a learning opportunity.

• Did the acrylic lift?
• Maybe you need to prep the nail more thoroughly next time.
• Is the shape not quite right?

Practice your filing technique. The key is to keep learning and improving.

Keep Learning and Exploring

Finally, never stop learning.

The world of nail art is constantly evolving, with new techniques and trends emerging all the time.

Stay curious, keep exploring, and don’t be afraid to try something new.