Strengthening nails with acrylic powder under gel polish is indicated for thin plates, their own or extended length, poor “wearability” of the usual coating, cracks and defects on them. The powder is used on an undried base. It is poured onto the nail with a spatula or the finger is dipped into a jar of the composition, polymerized in a lamp, and then the procedure is continued as usual.
There are transparent, colored, camouflage, glitter, and neon powders that are also suitable for design. Strengthening helps to extend the wearing of manicure for up to 1 month, if there is no allergy to acrylic. In the salon, the service increases its price to 1500-5000 rubles. Remove the powder by filing and soaking with a special liquid.
Strengthening nails with acrylic powder for gel polish: will it really help?
Strengthening nails with acrylic powder under gel polish provides:
- greater rigidity and density of nails, without making them “potbellied”;
- elimination of microcracks on plates;
- leveling their surface;
- long-term wearing of manicure;
- “repair” of the plate if part of the free edge breaks off;
- beautiful nails, even if they peel in their natural form;
- the opportunity not to rest from the coating without harming their condition.
The effect is real due to the special properties of the material. It is a powder of polymer particles, which, in combination with a monomer, hardens under the influence of light radiation. What the acrylic comes into contact with also becomes more rigid. Essentially, this is another layer on the nails that becomes their support. There is no healing effect when used, but acrylic powder does not cause harm. Nails retain some elasticity, so wearing a manicure can be quite comfortable.
Is it better to use powder?
Acrylic powder has a lot of advantages:
- beauty and naturalness of the appearance of nails when using it;
- a variety of species that give different external effects;
- ease of use, speed of the process;
- the ability to wear a manicure for up to 1 month;
- absence of bubbles on the surface, which happens when using gel polish;
- the ability to create original designs that cannot be made with other materials;
- ease of correction after the period of wearing the manicure has expired.
The product can be purchased inexpensively at any nail art supply store. You don’t need any special tools or equipment to use; what you already have for standard gel polish coating is enough.
Additional recommendations from the experts
- To do a chic, professional manicure at home, you not only need to train a lot, but also listen to the advice and tricks of real experts. It is advisable to include calcium, vitamins A and B, iron and foods rich in calcium in the diet, because the hardener does not treat nails, but only masks the problem of a fragile plate.
- The coating will ensure a long-lasting manicure, but as a precaution, still wear protective gloves for housework, especially laundry, wet cleaning and dishwashing.
- Don't forget to give your hands a gentle massage, use hand moisturizer, and stay hydrated.
- And most importantly, remember that your nails will need periodic rest from the material to prevent their condition from deteriorating. After using acrylic for a long time, take a break and provide the necessary rest from the procedure.
Strengthening with acrylic powder under gel polish step by step
Strengthening with acrylic powder under gel polish looks like this step by step:
- Perform a hygienic manicure.
- Nails are treated with a buff, wiped with a degreaser, and coated with primer.
- Apply the base product.
- Powder is poured onto the damp surface of the nail.
- Shake off excess.
- Dry in a lamp.
- Go over the nail with a brush.
- Cover it with another layer of base or gel polish.
- The composition is polymerized.
- Use the finishing coat and dry it.
Preparation
The first stage is disinfecting hands and nails and preparing them for the use of artificial materials. Spray an antiseptic on the skin and rub it over the surface. The nails are given the desired shape and the same length using a file. The keratinized part of the cuticle is cut off, the pterygium is cleaned, including from the area of the lateral ridges. The gloss is removed from surfaces with a buff. And then they and the skin nearby are wiped with a degreaser, carefully removing all dust and lint.
The cleanliness of the manicure is very important; it will ensure the absence of streaks, and later peeling, and an even, high-quality coating of materials.
Using a Primer
After degreasing the nails, a primer is applied to them, combined with acrylic material. It can be acidic or acid-free; there are liquids labeled Acrylic. For many, the coating also lasts on a weaker ultrabond with a low content of aggressive chemicals. The main thing is to apply the chosen product correctly:
- in a small amount, but on the entire plate and end;
- without affecting the skin;
- then dry it in air for 1-2 minutes, if the instructions for the composition do not indicate to polymerize it in a lamp.
Applying the base
For acrylic powder, choose a plastic base, that is, rubber. It should be of medium consistency and smooth out well. The product is applied in a thin layer, not reaching 1-1.5 mm to the cuticle. There is no need to level the base at this stage, nor do you need to dry it. If the product gets on the skin, it should be removed immediately with a cloth moistened with a degreaser or an orange stick.
Using powder
The powder can be applied to the nail in two ways:
- dipping your finger into a jar of it several times;
- sprinkle the plate with powder from a spatula.
In both cases, the finger should remain in one position - down, so that the undried base does not flow onto the cuticle, and the powder lies more evenly. You need to wait some time for it to mix on the nail with the liquid. The remains are shaken off by tapping the applicator on your finger. Then you can put your hand in the drying lamp. The process time is standard, depending on the type of device.
You should not apply powder under the cuticle or even to its very edge. After all, the base of the nail remains static even without acrylic composition; only the central part and the free edge should be strengthened. There is also no need to be afraid that unevenness will form at the border if the base is used in moderation.
Applying a second layer of base or gel polish
The powder must be fixed with the next layer of polymerizing material. Before applying it, brush the dried nail with a brush to remove excess grains. Then you can use your choice:
- another layer of base if the powder was decorative;
- gel polish
The base is applied with leveling, but the layer needed is quite thin. It should be dried in a lamp. Gel polish is usually used to paint nails twice, polymerizing each time. The final coating in any case is top. It is dried in a lamp.
What is it, what are the advantages and disadvantages of the material?
Acrylic powder is a crushed synthetic powder that has strengthening properties. Acrylic was first used in dentistry, and only later it gained popularity in the manicure industry.
Penetrating into microcracks along with the gel, acrylic, under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, seals all damage. It strengthens nails and helps in correcting even serious “breakages”. Use it like those whose gel polish does not last as long as it should. Acrylic makes nails harder, so they retain elasticity and break much less.
Acrylic powder does not have a healing effect .
Strengthening is explained by the creation of an additional protective layer. Initially, acrylic powder was used only for extensions. It is quite plastic and, after drying, gains maximum strength. It is these properties that make it possible to use it to “repair” the nail plate, and later to prevent chipping and peeling. The use of the material allows the nails to look natural and maintain strength for a long time. It also does not require specific care.
Nail plates coated with acrylic powder look well-groomed. The powder itself is impossible to notice on the nails. Acrylic masks almost all imperfections, and the reinforcement is completely safe. But it's not all positive aspects. also noted:
- High quality acrylic covers the entire nail plate. The material does not spread and does not harden prematurely. It's quite easy to work with. The powder can also be used to create various designs.
- The material qualitatively strengthens the plates. You can use it without decoration - in itself it looks natural and neat. The powder fills all existing cracks.
- Strengthened nails can easily withstand elevated temperatures and any other loads. They do not soften when kept in water for a long time or when in contact with household chemicals.
- With acrylic, natural nails receive enough oxygen. A vitamin composition can be applied underneath it, which will provide additional strengthening and nutrition to the nails.
- The powder is easily removed. For this, special solutions are used. Since there is no need to file down the top layer, the plate is not damaged.
Despite the fact that acrylic powder has a number of advantages, one cannot fail to note its disadvantages:
- Poor quality powders can lead to an allergic reaction. Failure to comply with the technology can even lead to injuries to the nail plate. For a positive result, it is important to adhere to all the rules.
- The powder hardens quickly, so you need to work with it as quickly as possible.
- The material cannot be used for nail fungus - it can aggravate the course of the disease.
- Strong specific smell. It can cause headaches and malaise. It is important to ventilate the room where you work with acrylic.
- After covering with powder, nails lose their natural shine.
Manicure tools with acrylic powder and gel polish
Manicure with acrylic powder and gel polish is performed using:
- antiseptic liquid,
- files;
- buff;
- hand brushes;
- cuticle scissors or nippers;
- an orange stick or an applicator with a silicone tip, a pusher;
- remover;
- degreaser (dehydrator);
- lint-free wipes;
- primer;
- bases;
- gel polish;
- finishing agent;
- lamps for coating polymerization.
If you have a manicure machine, some of the tools may not be needed.
Preparatory stage before starting work
Proper preparation will contribute to the correct distribution of the powder and maximum bonding of the material to the surface. Why do this? In order for the chosen design to be neat and retain its novelty for a long time.
Initially, we remove from the nails the remnants of previous varnishes, old decorative elements, various applied products or vitamin compositions. It is not recommended to cut cuticles right before application; it is better to do this a day or two before to avoid irritation or allergies. Remove the cuticle with a pusher or a special product.
Next, you need to wash your hands with soap and wipe until dry. It is imperative to treat each nail with an antiseptic. If this is not available, use an alternative - hydrogen peroxide or alcohol.
Then you need to trim the length using a rough file, model the shape, leaving the edge free. Using a soft nail file or pad, we remove the shine, file, sand, and degrease. After all the manipulations, we move directly to the strengthening process.
Preparatory process
When should you use gel polish with powder?
Gel polish with powder is chosen by those who have one of the following nuances or problems:
- nails are thin, brittle, peeling, very bending;
- long natural length;
- you need to perform extensions with artificial materials;
- The gel polish coating quickly flies off and peels off due to the characteristics of the body;
- the tip of the nail is broken or there are other defects that cannot be hidden by a regular color coating.
In addition, the material is used for:
- aquarium and knitted designs;
- designations of drawings or their details;
- decorating individual stripes and figures in geometry;
- creating a velvet or “sugar” surface.
Watch the video about three ways to strengthen nails with acrylic powder:
How acrylic works: how does it strengthen nails?
Some girls have naturally weak nails that constantly peel and can break at the first opportunity, but this is not a reason to give up a beautiful, fashionable manicure and grow the desired length. Acrylic powder also provides a long-lasting white or colored finish that allows nail plates to be permanently strengthened, unlike regular polish. With its help, you can extend your nails, or you can do additional extensions, or simply strengthen your manicure. The effect is achieved due to the fact that the powder is mixed with liquid; it fills absolutely all micro cracks on the surface, leveling the texture to a smooth, shiny state.
Colored acrylic powder options
As a result, you get a neat and stylish manicure that is resistant to mechanical stress and temperature changes. You can calmly do household chores and allow your hands to come into contact with water for a long time when washing dishes or wet cleaning, your manicure will remain intact and unharmed. Nail service specialists recommend applying a special vitamin coating under the powder to provide additional protection.
Strong marigolds
Cost of gel polish coating with acrylic powder
In the salon, gel polish with acrylic powder can cost 1500-5000 rubles. The difference depends on the level of the institution, as well as the method of using the material. In any case, strengthening is paid separately and can add 500-800 rubles to the cost of the manicure.
If the design is done with powder on the entire plate, each finger will cost 100-250 rubles. The same price applies to nail repairs. If the powder is used in combination with another type of design (geometry, ombre, hand-painted), each is paid separately depending on the complexity. It could be 100 or 700-1200 rubles. for each nail.
The product itself is purchased at a price of 90-350 rubles. for a 5-7 gram jar. The cost depends not only on the store, but also on the quality of the product. Colored and glitter powders usually cost more. To strengthen, you should choose the finest grind, which can also add value. But this quality makes working with powder easier, especially for a beginner.
Indications and contraindications
Indications for strengthening with acrylic are weak nails that often break. It is also recommended to use powder if the gel polish is worn less than expected, peeling, chips, and cracks occur.
The procedure has a number of contraindications:
- allergic reaction to the component;
- the presence of a fungal disease;
- antibiotic treatment;
- undergoing chemotherapy.
How to remove the coating
You can remove old house coverings in several stages:
- First, use a 100-180 grit file on the surface of the nail to damage the finishing layer.
- A piece of cotton pad is moistened in a liquid that dissolves acrylic.
- It is placed on the nail and secured with foil or a silicone cap.
- You need to wait 10-15 minutes.
- The soaked coating is removed from the surface with an orange stick.
- The remains are cut down with a 240 grit grinder.
- Dust is brushed off to see if any material remains on the plate.
- Then you can shape your nails, treat cuticles, etc.
- Finally, apply oil to the skin.
You should work with files, especially at the 6th stage, carefully so as not to damage the nail. A remover that dissolves acrylic should be applied liberally to the cotton wool. But it is important to control that it does not flow and does not get on the skin or is there in a minimal amount. Still, this is a rather aggressive remedy for her.
Acrylic strengthening is used by many nail artists; the method has proven itself to improve the “wearability” of a manicure. It is also available at home. But when performing it, it is important to follow all the steps so that “pockets” favorable for the development of infection do not form under the coating.
Types
Acrylic powder is divided into types:
- Transparent. This is a universal remedy. It is used for nail extensions and French manicures. Colored is suitable for nail design solutions.
- Camouflage masks defects, even if it is applied in thin layers.
- The finish can be matte or with glitter.
Acrylic Powder
TOP 5 best professional powders
The price of a small jar of acrylic powder from a well-known company can scare away a novice craftsman. But nail art professionals strongly recommend purchasing products only from trusted brands. Firstly, the powder is used sparingly, and a small container lasts a long time.
Secondly, by buying cheap Asian powders, you can not only get a poor-quality coating, but also cause harm to your health. The fact is that they still use toxic methyl methacrylate, which is banned in many countries. Reputable companies use safe ethyl methacrylate.
Low-quality powder has an intense chemical smell. When used, it bulges and blurs, and the adhesion of such powder to the nail is unreliable.
For high-quality nail art, you need reliable powder. Products from the brands TNL, Kodi, InGarden, Essie, INM, Irisk Professional, and CND have proven themselves well.
The TOP 5 acrylic powders include:
- Transparent – produced by INM;
- Camouflage – Irisk Professional;
- Camouflage – TNL;
- Color – Kodi;
- Glitter – InGarden.
Products of popular brands are presented in many Russian online stores.
Comparison table of characteristics
Based on the previously presented rating, we created a table with the main characteristics of all funds.
Full product name | Country of Origin | Volume (g) | Texture | Cost, rub) |
Kodi Professional Power Clear | USA | 15 | velvety | 150 — 250 |
TNL Professional Premium | South Korea | 18 | fine | 200 — 350 |
INM OTD Powder Natural | USA | 42 | thick | 250 — 330 |
Irisk Professional Clear | USA | 15 | fine | 100 — 190 |
InGarden Pure Glass | USA | 20 | thick | 200 — 300 |
RuNail | Russia | 20 | velvety | 300 — 400 |
EzFlow A-Polymer White Acrylic Powd | USA | 28 | velvety | 400 — 800 |
Tips for choosing
We suggest using a few tips for choosing the right powder:
- Jars with a wide neck are more convenient to use, since the powder can be applied in any way.
- The powder often crumbles when opened, so you should check the tightness of the lid and the presence of a protective layer.
- It is better to choose fine powder, since it immediately lays down smoothly and does not form unevenness on the nail.
- Often the product acquires a yellow tint after some time of use, so you need to clarify this nuance before purchasing.
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