How to Ask for Acrylic Nails at the Salon

 How to Ask for Acrylic Nails at the Salon

When you go to the salon, you might find yourself wondering what type of nails you should get, especially if you don’t know the lingo all that well. But there are several clues that will let you know whether or not you’re going to get acrylic nails, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision about how to ask for acrylic nails at the salon.

Step 1: Understand the process

Before you go in and ask for acrylic nails, it’s important that you understand what exactly that entails. Your nail tech will first file down your natural nails, then she’ll use a liquid form of nail glue to adhere a clear form on top of them. She’ll then shape your nails and apply a layer of gel polish over top.

Step 2: Know your budget

Your first challenge is figuring out how much you can spend. While some people splurge on professional manicures, others can’t afford even a quick $5 manicure from a local nail salon (even though there are plenty of cheap and chic options if you look). The best way to determine your budget is knowing exactly what services you’re looking for—opi gelcolor vs. uv gel, or feather nails vs.

Step 3: Figure out what kind of nail look you want

There are a few different looks you can go for, from long and classy (something along the lines of French tips) to short and sassy (think square or coffin nails). Both are cute, depending on your personal preference. To further narrow down your look, think about what kind of polish you want applied over that hard surface: do you want it just painted in clear? Or do you want some fun color added on top?

Step 4: Get there early

This one seems like a no-brainer, but arriving early will give you some time to talk to your nail tech and/or nail artist and have your nails prepped. You’ll feel more relaxed and take less time getting your nails done, since they won’t have a rush job of it. At my salon, I like going in before my appointment so we can break the ice before things get busy.

Step 5: Pick the right color combinations

Choosing a color combination should be fun! Don’t be afraid to experiment. Start with a couple of colors that are complementary – colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel – and look online or in fashion magazines for inspiration.

Step 6: Give yourself a manicure before

Do not take life too seriously. You will never get out of it alive. ~ Elbert Hubbard

Step 7: Take care of your cuticles during and after

If you’re getting fake nails, don’t forget to take care of your cuticles during and after. If you ignore them and don’t push them back, they may grow into your skin while you have acrylics on.

Step 8: Stay away from sweetened drinks, alcohol, & coffee in 24 hours!

You’re probably going to want to stay away from coffee and sugar in general, which can lead to high insulin levels that make it even harder for you. Alcohol is also something you’ll want to avoid, as drinking it can temporarily raise your blood sugar before dropping it and making you feel like a hypoglycemic mess. No matter what, keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your day, and don’t forget about those green smoothies!

Step 9 & 10) Follow up with your manicurist about any issues/questions you have. Tell them if it's working out so they can perfect their technique.

Nailner is a term used by many nail technicians when referring to acrylic nails. (A nailner is not a type of tool, but rather an adjective.) Ur sugar refers to any hardeners that are applied before gelpolish or acrylics. Gelpolish and vinylux refer to two types of shellac polish that are popular for nail art. Gel color is a type of coating applied over gelpolish/vinylux in order to create colorful designs.