Ava Monroe
Acrylic nails are a blend of a powder polymer and liquid monomer that are mixed and then brushed onto natural nails to add length and colour. They can last anywhere between two to eight weeks, depending on the type and application. However, they can be repainted if the wearer wants to switch up their style. Repainting acrylic nails is not the same as repainting regular nail polish, but it can be done with caution and care. It's important to note that if you want to use gel polish on top of acrylic nails, you must first buff off the top coat of the acrylic to ensure the gel polish sticks.
How to repaint gel acrylic nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prepping the nail | Push back cuticles, buff the nail, and remove any debris or dust under or near the nail |
| Removing gel polish | Buff off the gel polish and then paint over the acrylic base |
| Using nail polish over acrylics | Apply a base coat on top of the acrylic top coat to prevent staining |
| Using gel polish over acrylics | Buff off the top coat on the acrylic for the gel to stick; finish the colour application first to seal in the colour |
| Top coat | Use a trustworthy top coat to give a smooth, glossy, and durable finish; seal with a shiny glow and improve the health and longevity of the nail |
| Cuticle oil | Hydrate and fortify the nail work |
| Hydration | Use proteins and rejuvenating oils (e.g. olive oil) to restore nail health and build up strength |
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What You'll Learn
Buffing and painting over gel nails
Buffing
Begin by buffing the gel polish that is already on your nails. This step is crucial as it helps create a clean and smooth surface for the new polish to adhere to. Use a nail buffer to gently buff the surface of your gel nails. You can use a nail drill or file for this step, but if you're just trying to cover up the existing colour and not rebuild the nail, a hand file is recommended. Only buff until the surface is even; there is no need to remove all the colour unless your nails already look bulky.
Cleansing
After buffing, cleanse your nails with a product like Swipe to ensure they are free from dust and debris. This step will help you achieve a smooth finish.
Base Coat
You can skip this step if you're short on time, especially if you're painting over gel with more gel, as gel sticks to gel. However, if you're using regular nail polish, a base coat is essential.
Painting
Start by placing the brush in the middle of the nail and brushing towards the free edge. Then, gently push the polish back towards the cuticle. This technique gives you better control and helps avoid streaks and uneven coverage. Apply one or two smooth, even layers of colour.
Top Coat
Finish with a strong top coat to protect your new manicure from chipping. Wrap the free edge of your nail with colour to ensure maximum protection.
Curing
If you're using gel polish, don't forget to cure your nails after painting.
And that's it! You've successfully repainted your gel nails. Enjoy your fresh new manicure.
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Using a top coat to seal the paint
Using a top coat is an essential step in sealing and protecting your nail art. It adds a layer of protection and helps to prolong the life of your manicure. Here are some detailed instructions on using a top coat to seal the paint when repainting gel acrylic nails:
Firstly, it is important to properly prepare the nail surface. Push back the cuticles, use a buffing block to smooth the nail surface, and remove any debris or dust that may be present. This ensures that the top coat will adhere evenly and smoothly.
Next, select a high-quality top coat designed for use with gel acrylic nails. Look for a product that promises a smooth, glossy finish and long-lasting protection. A good top coat will not only seal the paint but also hydrate and improve the health of your nails.
Before applying the top coat, ensure that the paint underneath is completely dry. Then, carefully apply a thin, even layer of the top coat to each nail, being careful not to flood the cuticles. Allow the top coat to dry completely.
If desired, you can add an additional layer of protection by applying a second coat. This is especially beneficial if you want your manicure to last longer or if you feel the first coat wasn't evenly applied. Allow the second coat to dry completely as well.
Finally, finish with a cuticle oil application. Cuticle oil hydrates and fortifies the nails, adding to the overall health and appearance of the nails. This step ensures that your nails not only look their best but also stay strong and healthy.
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Applying cuticle oil for hydration
Applying cuticle oil is an essential step in maintaining the health and appearance of your nails. Cuticles that are exposed to excessive cold, sun, chlorine, or salty or soapy water can become chapped, cracked, and dry. Cuticle oil provides essential moisture to the cuticles and the surrounding skin, preventing and repairing dryness while maintaining the elasticity of the cuticles. This reduces the risk of issues like cracking, splitting, and hangnails.
To apply cuticle oil, start by holding the dropper or brush a couple of inches above your nails and gently squeezing a drop onto each nail. You can also use a cotton ball to dab the oil onto your cuticles. Cuticle oil is typically applied topically to each nail bed and the skin surrounding the nails. Massage the oil into your cuticles, focusing on the sides of your nails and the surrounding skin. Take your time with this step, as massaging the oil helps induce blood circulation, which stimulates nail growth.
It is recommended to apply cuticle oil twice a day, allowing 2-3 hours for the oil to completely absorb and dry. Reapply as often as needed, especially if your nails and cuticles are feeling dry. Cuticle oil is best used after a manicure to rehydrate your nails and cuticles without harming your nail polish. In fact, cuticle oil can help protect your nail polish, giving it a lasting shine.
However, it is important to note that cuticle oil should not be applied right before a manicure, as it may prevent the nail polish from adhering properly to your nails. If you plan to use cuticle oil before a manicure, ensure that you wipe your nails clean with nail polish remover or alcohol beforehand.
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Removing gel polish without staining
To remove gel nail polish without staining, you can use acetone, which is the most effective way to remove gel nail polish at home. Here are some steps you can follow:
Firstly, work on one hand at a time, starting with your non-dominant hand. Place a thick towel on your work area to protect it from the acetone, and then apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to each cuticle and the surrounding skin. This will help protect your skin from the acetone.
Next, gently file your nails from the cuticle to the edge, moving left to right. Avoid using a back-and-forth motion and do not focus on just one spot. Filing down the top coat will expose the gel polish underneath, making it easier to remove with acetone.
Tear off pieces of cotton balls or pads that are about 1.5 x 1.5 cm. They should be thin but large enough to cover your nail bed without touching the surrounding skin. Soak the cotton with acetone—around 5 to 10 drops should be enough. Alternatively, you can put acetone directly onto the pad.
Now, gently rub your nails with the acetone-soaked cotton. The gel polish should start to come off. If it does not come off easily, you can leave the cotton on your nail for a few minutes to let the acetone work.
Finally, wash your hands with gentle soap and water to remove any remaining acetone. Gently rub petroleum jelly into your cuticles and the skin around your nails for the next seven days to reduce any irritation.
To prevent staining, you can apply a clear base coat before your coloured polish. This creates a barrier between your nails and the pigments, reducing the chances of staining. You can even try two coats of base coat if your nails are prone to staining. Additionally, avoid wearing nail polish for prolonged periods, as this can increase the risk of staining.
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Using regular nail polish over gel
Repainting gel acrylic nails with regular nail polish is a great way to switch up your manicure without removing your acrylics. The process is relatively simple and can be done at home or in a salon. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving a flawless finish:
Prepare Your Nails:
Start by removing any old nail polish from your acrylics. It is crucial to use an acetone-free nail polish remover to avoid damaging the acrylic surface. Acetone is a strong chemical that will dissolve the acrylic material, leading to unevenness and potential disaster. Once the old polish is removed, wash your hands with warm, soapy water and dry them thoroughly. Leaving water on the nail can cause moisture to seep between the acrylic and the natural nail, leading to fungal growth. Ensure that your nails are completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
File and Buff:
Begin by carefully filing and buffing the area where the acrylic nail meets your natural nail. This area will be filled with new acrylics, so you want it to be as smooth, clean, and dry as possible. Filing and buffing create a uniform surface for the new acrylics to adhere properly.
Prime Your Nails:
Before applying any new products, prime your nails with a primer polish or base coat. This step helps strengthen your nails and ensures they are strong enough to handle the new acrylics. It also promotes the longevity of your manicure and keeps your nails healthy.
Apply New Acrylics:
If you require a complete or partial refill, mix a monomer and polymer to create an acrylic paste. Brush this mixture onto your nails, following the instructions from your chosen acrylic nail kit. Allow the nails to dry, and finish by buffing and filing to smooth out any imperfections.
Paint Your Nails:
Now, you can apply regular nail polish to your acrylics. Choose your desired colour and paint each nail carefully. It is recommended to apply up to three coats of polish, ensuring each coat is completely dry before adding the next. Regular nail polish provides a quick colour change and is easier to remove than gel polish.
Seal with a Top Coat:
After the nail polish has dried, finish with one or two layers of a top coat. This step seals and protects your manicure, preventing chips and cracks. It also helps to extend the durability of your nail polish and ensures your acrylic nails remain hydrated and healthy.
Remember, while you can use regular nail polish over gel acrylics, the two have different chemical structures. If you plan to switch back to the original acrylic colour, apply a base coat over the acrylic top coat to prevent staining. Additionally, if you decide to use gel polish in the future, buff the acrylic top coat first to create a rough surface for better adhesion.
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Frequently asked questions
Acrylic nails can last anywhere between two to eight weeks depending on the type and application. However, if you're bored of the same colour, you can always buff off the gel and paint over the acrylic base with regular nail polish.
If you want to paint over gel acrylic nails, you need to first buff off the top coat on the acrylic. This will ensure that the new colour sticks. You can then apply a base coat to prevent the acrylic from staining. Finish with a top coat to seal the colour and add shine.
To make your gel acrylic nails last as long as possible, it's important to keep them well-hydrated. You can use proteins and oils, such as olive oil or cuticle oil, to restore nail health and improve the overall longevity of the nail and acrylic.
