Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Technique

Why is it that most of my acrylic clients are having lifting by the cuticle area?

August 30, 2010

The first thing I see here is that you’re putting on two coats of primer. Most primers require only one application, and putting primer on top of primer could lead to service breakdown. Check with your manufacturer’s instructions to see if only one coat of primer should be used.

The other thing could be over-filing. Using an 80-grit file on a natural nail would be way too harsh. When you over-file a nail during prep, you remove the keratin on the nail plate, which is needed for the products to make their chemical bonds to the nail.

Finally, it could be your acrylic bead is too wet and is flowing under the cuticle area. This is a common mistake because you can’t see the problem while it’s happening. The wet acrylic will seep under that small flap of cuticle, which then gets the skin’s oil under the acrylic. This can lead to lifting.  — Doni Horn is a guest artist and school account consultant for OPI.

More FAQ

Dear Shari: How do I convert acrylic clients to gels?

In my area, acrylic nails are more popular. I would like to do gels and am wondering how to convert acrylic clients to gels. Sincerely, A Gel Fan... read more

How can I get people to get regular pedicures and try nail art?

How can I get people to get regular pedicures and try nail art?... read more

What are the benefits of a waterless manicure? And what are the step-by-steps for performing one?

What are the benefits of a waterless manicure? And what are the step-by-steps for performing one?... read more

What might cause my client’s Brisa gel enhancement to lift?

What might cause my client’s Brisa gel enhancement to lift?... read more

What are the benefits of a waterless manicure? And what are the steps?

What are the benefits of a waterless manicure? And what are the step-by-steps for performing one?... read more

How can I avoid acrylic lifting?

Some of my clients complain that their acrylic lifts too quickly from the top. How can I avoid this?... read more

Is there an easy way to remove a UV gel top coat?

Is there an easy way to remove a UV gel top coat? Or is there a product for removing this?... read more

How do I begin offering nail art services?

I’ve recently finished a manicure and pedicure course and am interested in putting designs on nails (because my clients are asking for this). Where do I begin?... read more

Which acrylic powder product by CND would provide a pinker pink?

I like to use CND products. For my pink acrylic I am using the basic “pink powder.” My clients are requesting a pinker pink. Which acrylic product by CND would be the best pick? (I don’t want to buy all of the company’s pink powders to see which one is the most pink.)... read more

What are your favorite literary resources when it comes to working on nails?

What are your favorite literary resources when it comes to working on nails? We asked techs to tell us a little bit about a book they continually refer back to as they progress through their careers.  ... read more

How do I keep clients' nails from lifting?

I’ve been working as a nail tech for some years now, but have always had problems with clients’ nails lifting or popping off within two to three weeks. When they lift, I use a nail dehydrator after clipping the edges and filing the exposed natural nail, and then I double prime before applying acrylic. I have tried different products with no noticeable improvements. Am I clipping too much?... read more

Should I apply a new coat of acrylic to a weekly acrylic client's nails?

A client wearing acrylics wants to come in weekly. Should another coat of acrylic be added or is there another procedure to follow?... read more