{"id":799,"date":"2024-01-07T16:44:43","date_gmt":"2024-01-07T16:44:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vampy-varnish.com\/?p=799"},"modified":"2024-01-07T16:54:43","modified_gmt":"2024-01-07T16:54:43","slug":"can-u-paint-over-acrylic-nails","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vampy-varnish.com\/can-u-paint-over-acrylic-nails\/","title":{"rendered":"Can You Paint Over Acrylic Nails? A Detailed Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"
Applying nail polish to your natural nails is easy enough, but what about painting over acrylic nails? If you’ve just had a fresh set applied at the salon, or have filled out your own acrylics at home, you may be wondering if you can paint over top with regular nail polish without damaging the acrylic.<\/p>\n
The quick answer is: yes, you can safely paint over acrylic nails using regular nail polish<\/b>. However, there are some tips and tricks to getting an even application and long-lasting manicure when painting on top of acrylics.<\/p>\n
Read on for a detailed guide on prepping acrylics for polish, choosing the right formulas, application techniques, and upkeep.<\/p>\n
Getting your acrylic nails ready for a fresh coat of polish is important for ensuring the manicure lasts. Here are some tips for prepping acrylics before painting:<\/p>\n
Make sure there are no oily residues on the acrylic nails before painting. Cleanse nails with soap and water or an acetone-free nail polish remover. This removes any traces of hand cream, lotion or oils which can prevent polish from adhering properly.<\/p>\n
Use a fine-grit nail file or buffer to gently smooth the acrylic surface. Be very gentle and avoid over-filing as this can make nails thin and brittle. Just lightly buff away any ridges and shine the nails.<\/p>\n
After buffing, wipe the nails with acetone or rubbing alcohol using a cotton ball. This helps dehydrate the nails and remove any dust for better polish application. Allow to air dry completely before painting. Acetone works well but can be quite drying, so rubbing alcohol is a good alternative.<\/p>\n
Properly prepping your acrylics helps the manicure last longer. Following these simple steps allows regular polish to adhere smoothly and evenly for a flawless, long-lasting look.<\/b> With the right prep work, your colorful nail polish will stay chip-free on acrylics for up to a week!<\/p>\nChoosing the Right Nail Polish Formulas<\/h2>\n
Regular creme polishes<\/h3>\n
Regular creme nail polishes, whether glossy or matte, tend to adhere the best on top of acrylic nails. The dense, opaque formula helps mask any unevenness or imperfections in the acrylic surface underneath. Popular brands like OPI and Essie have extensive creme color selections to choose from.<\/p>\n
When painting over acrylics, use thin coats and allow each coat to dry fully before adding the next to prevent bubbling or peeling.<\/p>\n
Gel polish can also work well over acrylics since it is formulated to be durable and long-wearing. However, removing gel polish requires soaking in pure acetone, which can weaken and damage acrylic nails over time with repeated use.<\/p>\n
If you wish to use gel polish on acrylics, look for “soak-off” gel options which can be removed more gently and limit the harsh effects of acetone exposure.<\/p>\n
Shellac and dip powder polishes create an extra-hard, armor-like coating on nails. Though very durable and chip-resistant, these polished can be difficult to remove from acrylic nails. The hard outer shell does not allow the acrylic material underneath to flex and breathe, which often leads to lifting, cracking, or breaking.<\/p>\n
If shellac or dip powders are used over acrylics, be extremely gentle during removal to avoid excessive damage to the acrylic nail.<\/p>\n
No matter which nail polish type you choose for your acrylic manicure, always prep the nail surface properly and use a high-quality top coat to maximize wear. Give your acrylics a break from polish every few weeks to maintain health and prevent excessive product buildup over time.<\/p>\n
With the right polish formulas and proper care, you can safely paint stunning nail looks over your acrylic nails.<\/p>\n
When painting over acrylic nails, it’s important to apply the polish in thin, even coats to ensure proper drying and prevent chipping or peeling. According to nail care experts at Sally Beauty (https:\/\/www.sallybeauty.com\/nails\/nail-color\/how-to-apply-nail-polish\/<\/a>), 2-3 thin layers of color is ideal, allowing each coat to dry fully before adding the next.<\/p>\n Rushing the process with thick, globby polish can lead to shrinking or cracking as it dries.<\/p>\n Additionally, wipe the nail plate with nail polish remover before painting to get rid of any oil or debris left from the acrylic application or filling process. This helps the polish adhere properly. When rolling the brush across nails, use straight central strokes along the nail, avoiding excessive brushing back and forth on the free edge.<\/p>\n It’s crucial to let each thin layer of polish dry thoroughly before adding another, usually 2-3 minutes between coats. Insufficient drying causes polish to drag and pull, muddying the color. Rushing also increases chances for imprints or dents from accidental bumps or touches before fully cured.<\/p>\n If you’re short on time, try a quick-dry topcoat or nail polish drying spray like Essie’s Spray de Mode (https:\/\/www.essie.com\/nail-care-and-nail-polish\/treatments\/spray-de-mode<\/a>) between layers. This seals in the color and allows you to apply the next coat faster without worrying about smudging.<\/p>\nLet Each Layer Dry Fully<\/h3>\n
Use a Top Coat for Protection<\/h3>\n