Acrylic nails: how long they last and how to look after them

How long do they last?

Acrylic doesn’t fall off by itself: what happens is that the natural nail grows and leaves a gap at the base. The usual thing is an infill every three or four weeks, depending on how fast your nails grow and how you use them.

During the infill the acrylic is filed, the grown-out part is covered and, if you like, the colour is changed.

Care at home

• Wear gloves for washing up and for strong cleaning products.
• Don’t use your nails as tools to open cans or peel off labels.
• Moisturise your cuticles every day with oil or cream.
• Dry them well after a shower or a swim.

If one breaks or lifts

Don’t pull it off or peel it yourself: pulling takes layers of the natural nail with it and weakens it. If a nail lifts or breaks, book an appointment to repair it; it’s quick and stops moisture getting underneath.

When you want to take them off

Have it done at the salon. Removing them with product and a file, without pulling, protects your natural nail far better than taking them off at home.