Acrylic nails

Acrylic nails are made by mixing a liquid monomer with a powder into a bead that is sculpted onto the natural nail, or onto a tip or form for length, and left to harden in the air. No lamp is needed. The result is a hard, thick, very strong nail that can be filed into any shape and painted with ordinary or gel polish.

The main difference from gel is that acrylic sets by a chemical reaction rather than light, is harder and has a distinct smell during application. A full set often takes one and a half to two hours; infills are needed every two to three weeks. Removal is by soaking in acetone and gentle filing, and rushed removal is the usual cause of thin, sore nails afterwards.

Hamd Beauty does not offer acrylic nails or extensions; for colour on your own nails, book the gel manicure. Acrylates can cause an allergy in some people; if you notice redness or itching around the nail, stop and ask your doctor. This is general information, not medical advice.