How Long Do Acrylic Nails Take To Get Done? (READ this)

Whether you’re looking to get longer nails or simply want picture-perfect nails to flood the Instagram feed, acrylic nails are the best way to go.

Acrylic nails are the ultimate gateway to stunning nails, whether you go with a simple medium-length nail with nail polish or over-the-top stiletto nails with exquisite nail art.

But if you’re headed out to your first nail appointment, you might find yourself wondering - How long does it take to get acrylic nails, anyway?”

Keep reading to find out how long it takes to get acrylic nails (plus some other handy info you won’t want to miss out on).

How Long Do Acrylic Nails Take To Get Done?

The average time it takes to get acrylic nails done is 45 minutes.

However, that number can vary widely. Appointments can take as little as 20 minutes all the way to two hours.

Let’s look at several factors that make an acrylic nail appointment longer or shorter.

Experience Level

The experience of your nail technician plays a part in how long it takes to get your acrylic nail application.

For example, a brand new nail technician may need up to 45 minutes just to do the basic prepping and applying.

A more experienced nail technician can take as little as 20 minutes to get the basics done - but that’s not including nail designs, gel polish, and other extras.

That said, if you don’t want to spend too much time sitting in the nail salon chair and want to avoid sloppy work, make sure you’re getting a good nail tech with plenty of experience under their belt.

Prepping the Natural Nails

Prepping your natural nails shouldn’t take too much time in a nail salon.

The nail technician simply needs to buff and file the nail bed and deal with the cuticles.

However, if your natural nail bed is in rough shape, they may have to spend some extra time “fixing you up.”

Long nails may also need some extra time to work with.

Desired Nail Shape

Another thing to consider is the desired shape of the artificial nails.

Something basic, such as round or almond nails, can be designed pretty fast.

But those that want to step out of the box and indulge in stiletto or coffin shapes should allot more time for the nail technicians to create their forms.

Desired Length

Length also plays a role in how much time you spend at the nail salon.

Again, short nails will be easier for nail techs to accomplish than long ones.

Type of Nail Polish and Nail Art

Last but not least, consider the type of nail polish being applied.

Regular nail polish is quick and easy, especially on top of a beautiful acrylic nail application.

But if you want a more in-depth nail service such as gel nail, you will need to set aside more time since gel polish requires hardening under a UV light.

Add additional time if you want a nail design on top of your acrylic nails. Depending on how intricate the design is, you may spend up to two hours in the salon.

How Much Does It Cost To Get Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails typically cost anywhere between $35 and $55. Other add-ons, such as hard gel, nail designs, and extra pampering to keep nails healthy, will cost extra.

It may sound a bit pricey, but you need to consider the work and materials necessary to create acrylic nails.

For example, the nail tech will need to buy nail glue, nail files, acrylic tips, acrylic powder, acrylic liquid, etc.

Then, there is the application time, which is typically 45 minutes.

How Long Do Acrylics Last?

Acrylic nails last up to eight weeks with proper care, but you will need to get them filled in every two to three weeks.

The longevity of acrylic nails is one of the main selling points. Since they have such a long “life span,” most women agree it is worth the time and the amount of time it takes to apply.

How to Care for Acrylic Nails

You just spent all of that time and money on getting your acrylic nails. The last thing you want to do is end up with an acrylic nail with a break.

That said, here are some of the best ways to take care of your acrylics and make them last longer:

• Keep them dry. Moisture is the enemy. Keep your acrylics dry to avoid wearing them down, especially right after you get your nails done.
• Stay away from acetone. The other kryptonite for acrylics? Acetone. Keep acetone and other nail polish removers away from your nails.
• Be gentle with your nails. Be gentle with your acrylics! Although they are rock hard and seem like they can’t break, they can and they will. So be gentle.
• Take care of your nails and surrounding skin. There is nothing wrong with applying moisturizer and cuticle oil. Remove any hangnails and other issues, too.
• Consider short nails. If you’re struggling with your current acrylics, it might be time to consider going shorter.
• Apply a top coat. A top coat in between trips to the salon is a great way to extend longevity.
• Stop biting, nail biters! This is a great way to ruin your acrylic nails, but it will also destroy your natural nail. Stop biting!

FAQs

How long does it take for a salon to do gel nails?

A gel manicure will take around 45 minutes in most salons, like acrylics (unless you ask for extras).

However, they only last up to four months, making them less convenient for many women.

How many nail fills can you get?

There is no “limit” on how many times a full set of nails can be filled. However, most won’t go beyond four to five fills.

How much do you tip for a $50 manicure?

If you just got your nails done with a full set of acrylics and it cost $50, you should expect to tip $10.

The general rule of thumb is to tip 20% in salons.