A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Products for Acrylic Nails

A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Products for Acrylic Nails

If you're new to the world of acrylic nails and wondering what products you need to get started, this guide is for you! Inspired by Kirsty Meakin's in-depth walkthrough on the Naio Nails YouTube channel, we'll cover everything you need to build a basic kit for acrylic nail application. From sanitisation to top coats, here's your step-by-step guide to getting started.

1. Sanitisation

The first step in any nail treatment is to ensure that both your hands and your client’s hands are clean. Use a hand sanitiser with alcohol to eliminate any germs. This step is crucial for maintaining hygiene throughout the nail application process.

2. Cuticle Pusher and Cuticle Knife

To prep the nails, you’ll need a cuticle pusher to gently push back the cuticles and a cuticle knife to scrape away any non-living tissue on the nail bed. This helps in creating a smooth surface for the acrylic to adhere to.

3. Files of Different Grits

A variety of nail files with different grits is essential for shaping and prepping nails:

• 240 Grit File: Ideal for prepping natural nails by removing surface shine and shaping the nail.
• 120 Grit File: Coarser, used for shaping the acrylic after application.
• 180 Grit File: For refining the shape and finishing touches.

Each file serves a different purpose, so having multiple options allows you to cater to different stages of the nail process.

4. Dusting Brush

A dusting brush is useful for cleaning off the dust created by filing. It’s a small but handy tool that helps keep the workspace clean and your client’s nails dust-free.

5. Gel Residue Wipe Off Solution and Pure Acetone

Use a gel residue wipe-off solution, which contains isopropanol alcohol, to clean the nails and remove any sticky layers after using gel products. Pure acetone is necessary for removing acrylics when it's time to change styles or give the nails a break.

6. Sculpting Forms or Tips

Depending on your preferred technique, you can choose between sculpting forms or nail tips. Sculpting forms are ideal for creating custom nail lengths and shapes, while tips are quicker and easier to use for beginners.

7. Dehydrator and Primer

Before applying acrylic, it’s important to dehydrate the nail using a nail prep dehydrator. Follow this with a primer to enhance adhesion. Primers come in both acid-based and acid-free formulas, with acid-free being a gentler option for beginners.

8. Monomer and Acrylic Powder

For the acrylic application, you’ll need monomer (liquid) and acrylic powder. Kirsty recommends Max Adhesion monomer for beginners because it has a slower setting time, giving you more control during application. For powders, start with:

• Clear Powder
• Natural Beige, Perfect Blush, or Rose Glow – these colors are versatile and suitable for various looks.

9. Acrylic Brush

A quality acrylic brush is essential. For beginners, an oval, sharp size 8 brush is recommended. It provides the right balance between control and product pickup, making it easier to manage the acrylic.

10. Top Coats

Top coats are used to seal and protect your finished acrylic nails. Kirsty’s top pick for beginners is the Urban Graffiti Top Coat due to its versatility—it works over both acrylic and gel polish. Other options include Mega Gloss Top Coat, which is thicker, and the Gel Top Coat with a wider brush for easy application.

11. Cuticle Oil

Finish every nail treatment with cuticle oil to nourish the cuticles and add a professional touch to your manicure.

Conclusion

These essential items will set you up for success as you begin your acrylic nail journey. Remember, starting with the right tools and products is key to achieving beautiful and long-lasting results. As Kirsty suggests, it's best to learn the basics thoroughly before branching out into more advanced techniques and products. Whether you're sculpting or using tips, taking the time to prep correctly and use quality materials will make all the difference in your work.

So, gather your kit, practice your technique, and don’t forget to have fun as you dive into the world of acrylic nails! If you need more detailed guidance, check out the Naio Nails channel for tutorials and tips from Kirsty Meakin herself.