Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Technique

Bubbles in my acrylic. How do I stop this?

February 14, 2012

Bubbles in acrylic are usually caused by an incorrect ratio of liquid to powder. They can also form when you over-work the acrylic (excessive patting). Try using smoother strokes depending on the consistency of the acrylic.

For the eponychium area, applying product too close can cause lifting. Any interference with the acrylic and the natural nail bonding will result in the acrylic lifting off. This is why prep is so important. You must push back the cuticles and remove all residue from the nail plate, properly etch, and then dehydrate the nail plate to get the acrylic to adhere. Remember that too much primer and an incorrect liquid and powder ratio will also cause lifting at the cuticle.   

— Classic Mully is a nail tech from Gilbert, Ariz., who actively competes and writes about her experiences on NAILS’ Competition Insider Blog, at blogs.nailsmag.com/competitioninsider.

More FAQ

How do I know which electric file bit to use for which purpose?

With so many different electric file bits, please tell me which ones are really needed to file off acrylic or gel for prep, and which ones go around the cuticle area, file off excess acrylic, and then smooth the acrylic over the nails. (I also need to know sizes).... read more

What is the recommended usage of cuticle oil?

One tech I work with is an advocate of daily use of cuticle oil. She claims it prevents acrylic lifting. The other tech is against daily use. She claims it causes acrylic to lift. Who is correct? What is the recommended usage of cuticle oil?... read more

If a client no longer wants her sculpted acrylic nails, is it better to let them grow out and file them down or to remove them?

If a client no longer wants her sculpted acrylic nails, is it better to let them grow out and file them down or to remove them? I often get this question from clients when we remove the acrylic and the natural nail is very weak.... read more

What is a time-efficient one-ball method acrylic?

Time is an issue at my salon. What is a time-efficient one-ball method acrylic? I never know what size ball to start with.... read more

Is it safe to apply acrylic nails on an asthmatic client?

Is it safe to apply acrylic nails on an asthmatic client?... read more

When you sculpt with gels, how do you get a C-curve?

When you sculpt with gels, how do you get a C-curve?... read more

How can I convince my clients that there’s no harm in my nipping off excess cuticle?

How can I convince my clients that there’s no harm in my nipping off excess cuticle?... read more

How can I remove callus from the feet if it's illegal in my state to use a metal rasps and such?

How can I remove callus from the feet? In Florida, it is illegal to use metal rasps and such, so all I can use is scrubs, sloughing lotions, and a foot file.... read more

When you use colored acrylics to create nail art, do you file the acrylic smooth? Can you use any liquid with colored powders?

When you use colored acrylics to create nail art, do you file the acrylic smooth or do you leave it? What if it’s 3-D? Also, can you use any acrylic liquid with colored powders?... read more

How do you take off gels without hurting your clients’ natural nails?

How do you take off gels without hurting your clients’ natural nails?... read more

I'm having a hard time control my electric file. I'm scared of cutting the client. How do I get more comfortable?

I have been doing nails for about a year now and I am having such a hard time getting used to using an electric file. My problem is with control. Basically I can’t go over the surface of the nail because I am too scared of cutting the client or having the drill kick under and over the nail. I don’t know what I should do to get more comfortable using it.... read more

How do I blend clear/transparent nail tips with a natural nail since filing causes scratches?

How do I blend clear/transparent nail tips with a natural nail since filing causes scratches? Is it better to use half-well clear tips instead of full-well?... read more