Sculpted extensions for length and shape, maintained with infills
Acrylic nails are extensions made from a liquid monomer and a powder polymer that the technician mixes into a bead and sculpts over a tip or a form, then files into shape. They are the strongest and most versatile option for length: square, coffin, almond and stiletto shapes all start here, and they take colour, French tips, chrome and nail art equally well.
Because the extension sits on the natural nail, it grows out with it. An infill every two to three weeks fills the gap at the cuticle and rebalances the nail; after two or three infills most technicians suggest a fresh set. Done properly, the natural nail is lightly prepared rather than heavily filed, and the acrylic stays clear of the skin.
A full set takes around an hour and a half, infills about an hour. Ventilation matters with acrylic, and good nail bars use extraction at each station. Have them removed professionally by soaking, not by prising them off.
Also known as: acrylic nail extensions, acrylic full set, acrylic infills.
A full set usually costs £30 to £50, with infills around £25 to £35. Nail art, chrome and extra length add £5 to £20. Expect higher prices in London and at specialist nail studios.
The set itself can be maintained indefinitely with infills every two to three weeks, but most technicians recommend a fresh set every couple of months so the natural nail can be checked.
BIAB is gentler and better if you want strength on your own nails with modest length. Acrylic is better for long or dramatic shapes. Neither damages the nail when applied and removed properly.
