How to Shorten Acrylic Nails at Home

I love acrylic nails as much as the next person, especially those ultra-long stiletto and coffin nails. They’re just so exotic and eye-catching.

But let’s be honest, gal pals - they can become a considerable nuisance over time.

If you want to shorten your acrylic nails but don’t want to have to resort to scheduling an appointment with your nail tech at the nail salon, you can always do it on your own.

As long as you have a pail of nail clippers and a nail file handy, you can shorten your nails (without damaging your appearance or natural nails underneath).

Come on! Let’s shorten those fake nails.

Can You Cut Acrylic Nails?

You can successfully trim acrylic nails without damaging the natural nail underneath or messing up the appearance of your manicure.

I know this must be surprising. After all, an acrylic nail is extremely strong, and the application is somewhat extensive.

But even long acrylic nails can be reformed at home. Yes, it might take a little extra elbow grease and dedication - but it’s possible!

How To Shorten Acrylic Nails

Ready to shorten long nails quick? By following the proper steps, you can make your acrylic nails shorter and get the desired length and perfect shape you’ve been craving.

1. File for Small Jobs

If you’re only shortening your acrylic nails by a little bit, you don’t need to break out any of the “proper tools” for shortening.

You can simply rely on your file.

For small jobs, file acrylic nails until you’ve reached the desired length and shape.

Keep in mind that you will need a coarse nail file or medium file strength emery board to get the job done. Acrylic nails are relatively rigid and quite a bit thicker than your real nails.

You will need to put some muscle behind your filing.

2. Clip for Big Jobs

If you’re looking to take down a lot of length, nail files won’t cut it. Instead, you will need to use a nail clipper to cut portions of the acrylics off.

Consider using large clippers like those used for toenails. Again, this is simply because an acrylic nail is thick, strong, and not designed to be cut.

To cut acrylic nails, you will want to go at an angle, creating a “point” at the tip of your nails. (Unless you’re cutting off the “point,” such as the case for stilettos, coffins, etc.)

Are you worried about cutting too much off? Start with small increments. You can also mark where you’re cutting on each fingernail to make it even.

Acrylic nails won’t break off like your own nails. So, you might need to wiggle the cut portions to break them off.

Do not try to pull them off, though. If you do not safely remove the cut portion, you could end up with pain and damage to your real nail.

If you simply can’t seem to break the acrylic nail off or it’s starting to lift too much, cover it with a bandaid and head to your nail technician so they can fix it properly.

3. File the Jagged Edges

You will notice some rough edges when you’re done using the nail clippers on your acrylics. You may also not have the desired shape yet.

So, put the nail clippers down and pick up your handy dandy nail file once more. You might consider using a metal file over your regular nail file to get this done.

You can also use an e-file if you have one on hand. They offer more control, and you have less chance of ending up with a crack or break.

Use your tool to start filing down roughness to create smooth edges and a nail shape and length you are satisfied with. You may need to smooth the top of the nail, too.

4. Polish

After you cut acrylic and file it down, you will likely have some dust on your nails. Give your hands a quick wash in warm water to remove them. Dry completely with a clean towel.

Then, apply nail polish that closely matches your acrylic nails (or gel nails).

Make sure that you apply nail polish to the entire nail and on the edges. This will create a “seal” that will extend the longevity of your acrylics and make them look prettier.

Tip: After applying the polish, stick your hands in an ice-water bath and dry using a hair dryer. This creates a quick dry that seals the polish in place.

You can also apply gel polish and cure it with a UV light if you want.

5. Care for the Natural Nail

You don’t have to remove acrylic nails entirely to care for your natural nail underneath. Proper acrylic maintenance is all it takes to keep your nails healthy and strong.

The best thing to do is to apply cuticle oil. This oil fends off weak nails and brittle nails with a hefty dose of hydration while also encouraging natural nail growth.

FAQs

Can you cut acrylics shorter at home?

As long as you have a file or clippers, you can cut acrylics at home.

What to do when your acrylics are too long?

Cutting or filing is the best way to get rid of acrylics too long. If you’re unsatisfied with the length of your manicure, you can also schedule a visit to the salon.

This is a better option for those worried about accidentally damaging their nails.

How can you take off acrylic nails at home without acetone?

If you’re ready to get rid of them entirely, thin them out with a file or e-file and soak them in a bowl of water and oil or soap for 20 to 30 minutes. They should lift off quickly after that.