Fills are an essential part of maintaining acrylic nails. Experienced nail enthusiasts understand not only how to fill acrylics but also why it's crucial: regular fills keep full sets looking flawless and support nail health. Whether you're a nail professional or looking to achieve salon-quality results at home, read on to enhance your skills and perfect your fill technique.
Why Regular Fills Are Important
While some clients may hesitate due to the time and cost involved, it's important to emphasize that regular acrylic nail fills are vital for both strength and appearance. Without proper maintenance, acrylic nails can lift, break, or even lead to bacterial infections.
Tools and Materials Needed
Acrylic powder: Available in faster or slower setting options. You can choose what will work best with your skill level. It's the foundation of acrylic nails.
Liquid monomer: Combines with the acrylic powder to form a solid enhancement.
Nail file: Both electric and hand files are essential for shaping and smoothing.
Buffer: Creates a smooth finish after filing. This is not necessary if you are finishing the nails with a gel polish.
Swipe: A versatile cleaning and dehydrating liquid necessary for every set.
Protein Bond: The only bonder needed for adhesion.
Top coat: The final step in an acrylic fill, providing shine and gloss.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Acrylic Nails
1. Preparation: Begin by cleaning the nails. Remove any old polish, then use a cuticle pusher to expose as much natural nail as possible, especially at the bottom and along the growth channels.
2. Filing and Buffing: Using the electric file with a medium (150 grit) sanding band, work at a low speed to file the surface of the acrylic enhancement and create a textured surface. It is not necessary to remove much of the product unless it is lifted or separated from the natural nail. If this is necessary, you may need to switch to a carbide bit to take down the lifted product prior to using the sanding band. Continue to gently remove the shine from the exposed natural nail with the sanding band. Dust the nails off using a clean, dry manicure brush. Cleanse the nails with Swipe and apply two coats of Protein Bond to the exposed natural nail.
3. Applying the Acrylic: After submersing your brush in the monomer, drain out some of the liquid and pick up a small bead of acrylic on your brush. Set the bead down near the cuticle, guiding the product to the growth area. Blend it smoothly, leaving a thin, even layer over the natural nail but making sure to avoid contact with the skin.
4. Shaping and Finishing: Once the acrylic has dried, use a hand file to shape the perimeter of the nail (sides, free edge and lower arch). Then, use a safety bit to reduce bulk and blend the cuticle area tightly. Return to the hand file to ensure everything is smooth and flush with the natural nail. Finally, buff the surface and cleanse the nails with Swipe and apply Protein Bond to ensure the top coat adheres properly.
Tips for a Flawless Finish
Avoid over-filing, as this weakens the acrylic and increases the risk of bending or breaking. One of the most common mistakes is uneven acrylic application. Applying the correct amount with the right-sized bead will save time during filing and shaping. High-quality products and tools are key to achieving the best results.
Regular acrylic fills are essential to maintaining beautiful, durable full sets. With practice and attention to technique, you'll be able to fill sets quickly and efficiently, impressing both yourself and your clients with smooth, flawless enhancements.