You’ve probably seen those gorgeous long, perfectly shaped acrylic nails and wondered, “How long do these things actually stay on?!” Well, let’s dive in.
Typical Lifespan of Acrylic Nails
Ideally, with proper care and a good application, acrylic nails can last around 2-3 weeks before needing a fill. A fill is basically a touch-up where your nail tech adds more acrylic to the new growth near your cuticles to keep that perfect shape. After this period, you’ll notice natural nail growth at the cuticle area, and the acrylic may begin to lift or chip.
NOTE: With proper care and upkeep, you can extend the life of acrylic nails to up to 4 weeks.
Factors That Affect the Longevity of Acrylic Nails
Several variables determine how long your acrylic nails will last:
1. Quality of Application
A sloppy application is a recipe for disaster. If your nail tech doesn’t prep your nails properly or seal the edges well, those babies are gonna start lifting or chipping.
Also, the durability of acrylic nails is heavily influenced by the quality of products used. Premium acrylic powders and liquids create a stronger bond and more resilient finish.
2. Maintenance and Fills
To keep your acrylic nails looking fresh and intact, schedule a fill in every 2 to 3 weeks. This process involves filling the gap between your cuticle and the acrylic extension. Addressing any chips or minor damages during this time prevents further issues and keeps your nails looking fresh and intact.
3. Personal Habits
Life Happens! We all bump our hands, use our nails as tools (oops!), and sometimes even drop things on them. So kindly, avoid using your nails as tools for opening packages or scraping surfaces.
To decrease the risk of cracks and breaks, wear gloves while doing household chores. This is especially beneficial when the work involves water or harsh chemicals.
4. Natural Nail Growth
Just like hair, nails grow at different speeds for everyone. If you’re a speed grower, you’ll notice the gap at the cuticle sooner, requiring more frequent fills.
5. Environmental Factors
Excessive exposure to water or humid conditions can weaken the bond between the acrylic and your natural nail. For example, in extreme cold or heat, acrylics become brittle and more prone to breakage.
6. Harsh Chemicals
Cleaning products, nail polish remover (especially the harsh kind), and even some hand sanitizers can weaken the acrylic.
When is it time to Remove Acrylic Nails?
Despite your best efforts, there comes a time when acrylic nails need to be removed or replaced. Look out for the following signs:
- Prominent Lifting
- Chipping or Cracks
- Significant natural nail growth
- Discomfort or Pain
If you have witnessed any of these symptoms, kindly get your acrylic nails removed by a professional. Basically, gaps between the acrylic and natural nails can trap moisture. This will create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, leading to infection and weak nails.
Conclusion
Acrylic nails are a fabulous way to enhance your look, offering both style and durability. With proper care and maintenance, they can last up to 3 weeks or longer. However, their lifespan depends on factors like application quality, personal habits, and regular upkeep. If you do the proper aftercare, you can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting acrylic nails while keeping your natural nails healthy and strong.