Acrylic nails are a popular way to enhance the appearance of natural nails, creating a longer and stronger look. They are made of a liquid monomer and a powder polymer that harden when exposed to air, forming a durable layer over the nail.
Many people choose acrylic nails for their versatility, as they can be shaped, filed, and painted in various ways. Acrylic nails can also hide nail imperfections, protect weak nails from breaking, and prevent nail biting habits.
However, acrylic nails are not without drawbacks. They can cause damage to the natural nail bed, such as thinning, splitting, or infection. They can also trigger allergic reactions or contact dermatitis in some people, causing redness, swelling, itching, or blisters around the nails or other parts of the body.
Acrylic nails require regular maintenance, as they grow out with the natural nail and need to be filled every two to three weeks. They also need to be removed by a professional or soaked in acetone, which can be harsh on the skin and nails.
As for the nail trends for 2022, acrylic nails are expected to continue to be creative and colorful, reflecting personal expression and mood. According to nail artists and experts, some of the biggest trends include multicolor manicures, marble designs, chrome hearts, junk nails, and dark French tips.
Multicolor manicures involve mixing and matching different shades on each nail or creating gradients or patterns with complementary or contrasting colors. Marble designs mimic the natural stone with swirls of color over a white or neutral base. Chrome hearts are inspired by the clothing brand and feature the iconic logo in silver or gold on a black background. Junk nails are a maximalist style that involves attaching various charms, decals, or objects to the nails. Dark French tips are a twist on the classic manicure, using black or other dark colors instead of white for the tips.
Whether you opt for acrylic nails or not, it is important to take care of your nail health and hygiene. This includes keeping your nails clean and dry, moisturizing your cuticles, wearing gloves when doing chores, avoiding biting or picking at your nails, and visiting a reputable salon or nail technician.