Acrylics refers to any of a group of clear, synthetic resins used to make plastics, paints, etc. Nail enhancements (or artificial nails) made by combining a liquid acrylic product (monomer) with a powdered acrylic product (polymer); the two products form a soft ball that can be molded into a nail shape that adheres well to the natural nail or a tip; once applied, the acrylic hardens into a strong artificial nail that can be filed and buffed to a high shine. In 1934, Maxwell Lappe, a dentist in Chicago, created Nu Nails, an artificial fingernail for nail biters. In the early days of acrylic enhancements (late 1970s), most of what was available was coming out of dentists’ offices. The nails were thick and decidedly fake looking. Over the years, chemists have developed new technologies so that today, nail technicians can sculpt acrylic nails that are thin and more natural-looking. The nails in the photo were done by award-winning nail technician Lynn Lammers and were created with a pink and white acrylic system.
Required Reading
June 14, 2012
With the sudden rise of brush-on gel-polish bringing many new customers into salons, it seems nail techs are seeing fewer tried-and-true acrylic customers. With new products on the market, traditional acrylic users now have more options to choose from, but there is still a seat at the manicure table for them.
August 5, 2011
Pink, white, or colored, acrylic powder is often seen as the more important partner in a liquid-and-powder relationship. What makes it so special? Is it a secret ingredient? You may be surprised to learn what’s actually in there.
July 21, 2011
Pink, white, or colored, acrylic powder is often seen as the more important partner in a liquid-and-powder relationship. What makes it so special? Is it a secret ingredient? You may be surprised to learn what’s actually in there.
June 27, 2011
Monomer is a Greek term that means “one part” or “one unit.” (Mono means “one”; mer means “unit.”) But beyond “monomer,” what is the liquid that we use day in and day out? We’ve listed the ingredients necessary in every formula, regardless of manufacturer.
July 1, 2010
Amidst the gel-craze, acrylics have steadily been reinventing themselves to come out with better performing powders, and with brighter colors than ever. Here’s a collection of the newest acrylic powders on the market.
