Acrylic Nails: A Comprehensive Guide
What Are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are artificial nail enhancements that are made with a combination of liquid monomer and powder polymer. The monomer is a liquid ingredient that contains the catalyst responsible for the chemical reaction to form the acrylic nail. The powder polymer is a solid ingredient composed of tiny beads of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), which is a type of plastic resin.
The Process of Applying Acrylic Nails
Applying acrylic nails involves several steps:
- Preparation: The natural nails are cleaned, shaped, and buffed to create a smooth and even surface.
- Application of Tips (Optional): If desired, artificial nail tips can be glued to the natural nails to extend their length.
- Mixing the Acrylic: A small amount of liquid monomer is mixed with the powder polymer to form a pliable bead of acrylic.
- Application to the Nail: The acrylic bead is applied to the natural nail or the nail tip and shaped using a brush.
- Curing: The acrylic is left to cure and harden under a UV lamp or by exposure to air.
- Filing and Shaping: Once cured, the acrylic nails are filed and shaped to the desired length and style.
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