Acrylic nails are made from a liquid monomer and a powder polymer. They're mixed together to form a paste, then molded into a nail shape and glued to your natural nails. Many people prefer acrylic nails over just standard nail polish because it's stronger, you can shape it how you like, and you can even add quite a lot of length to your nails.

Although acrylic nails may provide the look you're going for, it's important to remember that there is a substantial cost involved in the upkeep, and you also risk damaging your natural nails in the process.

If acrylic nails have damaged your nails, you can use the BeautyGARDE Rocket Nail Fuel Repair polish. It's a growth treatment nail polish designed to nourish, strengthen, repair, and harden your natural nails, even after severe damage.

Acrylic nails cost

The cost of acrylic nails varies depending on several factors, including:

  • Your location

  • The nail salon/technician (e.g., high-end salons will cost more)

  • Any additional nail art designs you request

In general, you'll be looking at paying anywhere from $30 - $100 on average for a complete set of acrylic nails, not including any additional nail art requests. Of course, you'll also need to pay extra to tip your nail technician.

Note that the cost doesn't change if you're getting acrylic nail tips (i.e., French tips) vs. a full color or if you want short acrylic nails—it's still the same amount of acrylic that's applied to your nails (they're just filed down to shape), so you'll be charged the same price.

Cost of acrylic nail removal

In addition to paying for your acrylic nails, you'll also want to factor in the cost of removing them. Although peeling artificial nails on your own is possible, it's definitely not recommended. You risk severely damaging your nail beds and may even cause extreme pain. If you want to remove acrylic nails, you'll want to have this done at a nail salon. All nail technicians will be able to remove acrylic nails for you safely.

So how much do acrylic nails cost to remove? It's usually around $10 - $20 to remove a complete set of acrylic nails. But, again, the cost will depend on various factors, including the specific nail salon you're going to.

Removal is cheaper than getting acrylic nails done.

If you're looking at getting a new set of acrylics done, ask your nail technician whether you can get a discount by bundling the removal and application in one visit.

Acrylic nails vs. gel nails cost

Gel polish and acrylic nails differ in the product itself and how they're applied. Gel nails are made from a liquid resin that is brushed onto your nails (like regular nail polish) and then cured under a UV or LED light. On the other hand, acrylic nails are made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer, which are glued onto your nails.

The cost of acrylic nails vs. gel nails is comparable, although sometimes acrylics can be much higher than gel. On average, gel nails set you back around $30 - $70 for a complete set.

Remember, regardless of whether you choose acrylic nails or gel polish, it's important to have them removed properly to protect your natural nail beds.

Cost of additional nail art

One of the main things that can substantially increase the cost of acrylic nails is nail art. Additional nail art requires more time and skill, so expect to pay a lot more for this. Some nail technicians may charge per finger, while some may charge a flat fee, depending on the type of design you're requesting.

FAQs

Do acrylic nails damage your natural nails?

Acrylic nails can damage your natural nail bed, especially if you don't remove them properly. Since the fake nails are glued onto your nails, you could break your natural nails by accidentally hitting them against something or trying to remove them by peeling them off.

If you damage your nails after getting acrylics, our Rocket Nail Fuel System can help repair them and get them healthy and strong again.

Do nail salons remove acrylic nails?

Yes. Any nail salon or technician that can apply acrylic nails should be able to remove them safely with minimal damage to your natural nails.

Should you tip your nail technician?

Yes. Getting your nails done is a service, so regular tipping etiquette should be observed. Tipping your nail technician 15-20% is common, depending on the service.