Acrylic Nail Maintenance in Paoli: A Comprehensive Guide by Frazer Nail Salon
Acrylic nails are more than just a beauty trend—they’re a commitment to elegant, long-lasting nail enhancements that reflect personal style and sophistication. Known for their strength and versatility, acrylic nails can be customized in shape, length, and design, making them an ideal choice for those looking to elevate their manicure game. However, like any form of enhancement, acrylic nails require proper care to preserve their appearance and protect the underlying natural nail.
At Frazer Nail Salon in Paoli, we pride ourselves on delivering flawless acrylic nail applications and educating our clients on proper maintenance techniques. With the right care, acrylic nails can remain chip-free, glossy, and structurally sound for weeks at a time. This guide outlines everything you need to know—from essential daily care to professional maintenance tips—to ensure your acrylic manicure remains picture-perfect.
Understanding Acrylic Nails: What They Are and Why They Need Care
Before diving into maintenance, it's important to understand what acrylic nails are made of and how they interact with your natural nails.
Acrylic nails are created by blending a liquid monomer with a powder polymer to form a paste that hardens into a durable overlay. This solution can be applied over your natural nails or attached to plastic nail tips for added length. Once the acrylic hardens, it forms a solid shield that’s both customizable and resilient.
While these nails are strong, they are not invincible. Improper care can lead to lifting, cracking, or even infection. That’s why regular upkeep and proper hygiene are crucial to extend the life and beauty of your acrylic nails.
Daily Acrylic Nail Care Tips from Frazer Nail Salon
1. Keep Your Acrylic Nails Clean and Dry
One of the simplest yet most important steps in nail care is ensuring your hands and nails are always dry. Water trapped between your acrylic and natural nail can cause lifting and become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Tip: After washing your hands, make sure to thoroughly dry the area around the cuticle and underneath the nail.
2. Moisturize Regularly to Prevent Cracking
Frequent hand washing, exposure to cleaning products, or cold weather can dry out the skin and cuticles. Dry cuticles lead to brittleness and can increase the chances of acrylic lifting.
Best Practice: Apply nourishing cuticle oil and hand cream twice a day—especially before bed—to maintain hydration.
3. Avoid Using Your Nails as Tools
Your acrylic nails may be strong, but they are not designed for heavy-duty tasks. Avoid using them to open cans, scrape surfaces, or as a substitute for tools.
Reminder: Using your nails this way can weaken or snap the acrylic, or even cause trauma to your natural nail underneath.
4. Stay On Top of Infill Appointments
Acrylic nails need to be refilled every 2–3 weeks as your natural nails grow out. This not only preserves the appearance but also prevents lifting and damage.
Frazer Nail Salon Tip: Schedule your infills in advance to avoid delays and maintain consistent nail health.
5. Address Breaks or Lifting Immediately
If you notice any signs of lifting or cracks, don’t wait. Damaged acrylics can harbor moisture and bacteria, increasing the risk of infection or natural nail separation.
Quick Fix: Book a repair session at Frazer Nail Salon in Paoli as soon as you notice damage. Our technicians can seamlessly restore your manicure.
6. Protect Your Hands During Chores
Exposure to cleaning products and water can deteriorate the bond of your acrylic nails. Whether you're washing dishes, gardening, or cleaning, wear gloves to protect both your hands and nails.
Pro Tip: Use lined rubber gloves to shield your nails from chemical exposure.
7. File with Caution
While it's okay to reshape your acrylic nails at home between salon visits, it’s crucial to do so gently. Rough filing can loosen the acrylic layer or weaken the nail structure.
Recommended Tool: Use a fine-grit file and always file in one direction.
8. Use a Top Coat Weekly
To preserve the glossy finish and vibrancy of your polish, apply a high-quality top coat every 7 days. This adds an extra layer of protection against chips and fading.
Salon Suggestion: Try a gel-based top coat for enhanced shine and durability.
9. Limit Acetone Use
Acetone can severely dry out acrylics and surrounding skin. While it’s necessary for removal, overuse will break down the acrylic prematurely.
What to Avoid: Skip harsh nail polish removers, household cleaners, and dish soap that contain high levels of acetone or alcohol.
10. Opt for a Manageable Nail Length
Although long nails make a bold statement, they’re more susceptible to breakage. Choose a length that aligns with your lifestyle for easier maintenance.
Balance: For active lifestyles, shorter square or rounded shapes are ideal.
Expert Product Recommendations for Acrylic Nail Care
To make maintenance easier, here are some expert-approved products available or recommended at Frazer Nail Salon:
Cuticle Oil
Keeps nails hydrated and prevents brittleness.
- Recommendation: CND SolarOil – enriched with jojoba and vitamin E.
Nail Moisturizer
Locks in hydration and prevents cracking.
- Recommendation: OPI Avojuice Skin Quenchers – for soft, supple skin around nails.
Brush Cleaner
Removes acrylic buildup from tools for hygienic reuse.
- Recommendation: Young Nails Brush Cleaner
Top Coat
Maintains gloss, seals in color, and protects the acrylic.
- Recommendation: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
Acrylic-Friendly Remover
Gentle on both acrylic and natural nails.
- Recommendation: CND Shellac Remover
Final Thoughts: Why Maintenance Matters at Frazer Nail Salon Paoli
Acrylic nails are an investment—one that pays off in beauty, confidence, and self-care. But for them to last, consistent care is essential. The key is balance: moisturizing, avoiding trauma, maintaining regular appointments, and using the right products.
At Frazer Nail Salon in Paoli, we’re committed to helping our clients enjoy long-lasting, healthy acrylic nails. Our technicians not only create stunning designs but also educate every client on how to properly care for their nails between appointments.
So whether it’s your first set or your fifth, we invite you to experience acrylic perfection—done the Frazer way.
