Having a cracked acrylic nail can be an incredibly frustrating experience. You may feel like you’re stuck with the nail and have no way to fix it. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to repair a cracked acrylic nail and get it looking as good as new. In this article, we’ll go over how to repair a cracked acrylic nail so you can get back to enjoying your nails.
Why Acrylic Nails Crack
Before we look at how to repair a cracked acrylic nail, it’s important to understand why they crack in the first place. Acrylic nails are made from a combination of liquid monomer and powder polymer. When these substances are mixed together, they create a hard, durable nail. However, the chemicals in the acrylic can be sensitive to heat and water. When exposed to too much of either, the nail can become brittle and crack.
In addition, acrylic nails can be weakened if they’re not cared for properly. Repeatedly soaking your hands in water or using harsh chemicals can weaken the bond between the acrylic and the nail bed, causing them to crack. Poor application of the acrylic can also lead to cracking, so it’s important to make sure they’re applied properly.
How to Repair a Cracked Acrylic Nail
When your acrylic nails crack, it can be tempting to simply remove them and start over. However, if the crack isn’t too severe, you may be able to repair it and get your nails looking good as new.
1. Fill the Crack with Acrylic Powder
The first step in repairing a cracked acrylic nail is to fill the crack with acrylic powder. Start by cleaning the nail with an alcohol-based product to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a small brush to apply a thin layer of acrylic powder to the crack. The powder should be spread evenly, and it should be applied in a thin layer so that it doesn’t bulge out of the crack. Allow the powder to dry for a few minutes before applying a second layer.
2. Apply a Nail Glue
Once the crack has been filled with acrylic powder, you can apply a nail glue to help secure the crack. Use a cotton swab to apply the glue to the crack and the surrounding area. Allow the glue to dry for several minutes before moving on to the next step.
3. Apply a Top Coat
Once the crack has been filled and the glue has had time to dry, you can apply a top coat to the nail. This will help protect the nail from further damage and give it a glossy finish. Use a brush to apply a thin layer of top coat to the nail, making sure not to get any on the skin around the nail. Allow the top coat to dry for several minutes before applying a second layer.
4. File and Buff the Nail
Once the top coat has had time to dry, you can file and buff the nail to smooth out any rough edges. Use a nail file to gently file the nail until it’s smooth. You can then use a buffer to buff the nail until it has a glossy shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use nail glue to repair a cracked acrylic nail?
Yes, you can use nail glue to help secure a cracked acrylic nail. After filling the crack with acrylic powder, use a cotton swab to apply a thin layer of nail glue to the crack and the surrounding area. Allow the glue to dry before applying a top coat.
How do I prevent my acrylic nails from cracking?
To prevent your acrylic nails from cracking, it’s important to take care of them properly. Avoid soaking your hands in water for long periods of time and be sure to use gloves when working with harsh chemicals. Additionally, make sure they’re applied properly and avoid filing them too much.
Can I repair a cracked acrylic nail at home?
Yes, you can repair a cracked acrylic nail at home. Start by filling the crack with acrylic powder and then use a nail glue to help secure the crack. Finally, apply a top coat and file and buff the nail until it’s smooth.
Should I remove my acrylic nails if they’re cracked?
If the crack isn’t too severe, you may be able to repair it and get your nails looking good as new. However, if the crack is too deep or too wide, it’s best to remove the acrylic nails and start over.
Can I use nail polish to repair a cracked acrylic nail?
No, it’s not recommended to use nail polish to repair a cracked acrylic nail. Nail polish is too thin and won’t provide enough support to the crack. Instead, it’s best to use acrylic powder and nail glue to fill and secure the crack.