Required Reading

Secret Ingredient: Acrylic Liquid

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.

The Chemistry of Acrylics

July 1, 2009

Creating the perfect set of acrylics could be considered an art, but the foundation behind it is found in the science. NAILS breaks down the chemistry behind liquid-and-powder in laymen's terms.

Related Articles

• Go for a Low-Odor Monomer

  Nouveau Nail offers a superior adhesion, low-odor violet monomer formulated with UV inhibitors and optical brighteners for vivid color.

• Keep the Lid on Acrylic Odors

  When dealing with acrylic odor, of course fume extraction is very important, but so are good work habits, says Jesse Bruner, owner of Jesse David Nail Design in Wilmington, Del.

• Extreme Nailing

  Depending on conditions, clients’ hands and feet may be puffy, moist, and sweaty or cold, dry, and numb. A tech needs to know how to compensate for these changes so she can apply product to a consistent, stable nail surface each time.

• Extreme Nailing

  Does our environment change how we do nails? Do techs living in climates where it dips into double digits below zero work differently than techs who live where it’s nearly 100 degrees with 80% humidity?   

• Endless Possibilities With Fabric

  CND educator ambassador Marilyn Olemma Garcia of Caguas, Puerto Rico shows how with pre-made — and wild-styled — acrylic sculpts and pieces of fabric, she can create fun, funky, and artistic nails.