Can You Paint Over Acrylic Nails?

Do you ever find yourself feeling bored with the same old look of your acrylic nails? 

Perhaps you’ve got a special event coming up, and you want to switch up your manicure without removing your current acrylics. 

Whatever your situation may be, the question on your mind is likely: can you paint over acrylic nails? The good news is, you’ve come to the right place. 

In this post, I’ll dive into the ins and outs of painting acrylic nails, including what you’ll need, tips for getting the best results, and more. 

So, let’s get started on transforming your nails into a work of art.

Can You Paint Over Acrylic Nails?

Yes, you can paint over acrylic nails. Painting over your existing acrylics is a great way to switch up your manicure without having to remove them completely. However, use the right tools and techniques to ensure the best results. 

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are a type of artificial nail extension made from a combination of acrylic liquid for nails and powder acrylic resin. (For further information explore our article “Substitutes for acrylic liquid.”)

They are applied to natural nails to add length and enhance the appearance of the nails. 

Acrylic nails have become popular over the years due to their durability, versatility, and ability to withstand wear and tear. 

The application process involves applying a mixture of acrylic powder and liquid onto the natural nail. Then use a brush to shape and sculpt the nail to the desired length and shape.

Once the acrylic has hardened, the nail technician will file and buff the nails to smooth out any imperfections and prepare them for polish or nail art.

They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including square short acrylic nails, oval, stiletto, and coffin-shaped. You can customize the acrylic nails with various colors, designs, and embellishments.

One of the benefits of acrylic nails is that they are relatively low maintenance and can last up to two to three weeks before needing a fill-in.

It’s essential to take proper care of acrylic nails to ensure their longevity.

This includes avoiding harsh chemicals, such as acetone, and cleaning the acrylic nails to prevent fungal infections.

However, acrylic nails are not suitable for everyone. If you have nail infections or weakened nails avoid getting acrylics, as they can cause you further damage. 

Also, choose a reputable nail salon and technician to ensure proper application and minimize the risk of damage to the natural nails.

Read also: How to clean under nails with acrylics.

What are The Benefits Of Having Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails offer many benefits to those who choose to wear them. Here are some of the advantages of having acrylic nails:

Length and strength– Acrylic nails add length and strength to natural nails, making them less prone to breakage and damage. This is beneficial if your natural nails grow weak or you struggle to grow them naturally.

Durable and long-lasting– Acrylic nails last up to two to three weeks before needing a fill-in. This is an ideal choice if you have an active lifestyle or don’t have time for frequent salon visits.

Customization– Acrylic nails come in a variety of colors and designs, making it easy to customize them to suit any occasion or outfit. From simple French tips to elaborate nail art, the possibilities are endless.

Low maintenance– Acrylic nails are low maintenance, requiring only regular fills to maintain their appearance. They don’t need any special care or attention, making them an easy and convenient option for busy individuals.

Confidence booster– Having well-manicured nails can be a confidence booster. They make you feel put together and polished. They also enhance the appearance of the hands and nails, giving you a sense of pride in their appearance.

Cover nail imperfections– You can change acrylic nail color when getting a fill. It’s a great opportunity to Change the color of your nails, enhance your confidence and provide a fresh look that suits your mood or complements your outfit.

Customizable nail shape– You can come up with various acrylic nail shapes such as square, almond, stiletto, or coffin, offering more options for personalization than natural nails.

Ideal for nail biters– Acrylic nails can be an ideal solution if you struggle with nail biting. Artificial nails can act as a deterrent and help individuals break the habit.

How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?

The lifespan of acrylic nails varies depending on several factors, such as the quality of the application, the care taken after the application, and the individual’s nail growth rate. 

On average, acrylic nails can last for 2-3 weeks before needing a fill-in.

The process of getting a fill-in involves filling the gap between the natural nail and the acrylic nail with more acrylic resin. 

This helps to maintain the appearance and durability of the acrylic nails. 

However, over-filling or leaving too much time between fill-ins can weaken the natural nails and increase the risk of damage or infection.

To prolong the lifespan of acrylic nails, take proper care of them. Avoid harsh chemicals, such as acetone, and wear gloves while doing household chores. 

Also, keep the nails clean and dry to prevent fungal infections and moisturize the hands and cuticles.

If the acrylic nails start to lift or break, get them repaired or removed by a professional to prevent further damage to the natural nails. Also, remember to find out what causes acrylic nails to lift.

Is it Okay to Paint Over Acrylic Nails? 

Yes, it’s okay to paint over acrylic nails! Painting over acrylic nails is a great way to switch up your manicure without having to remove your existing acrylics. 

However, there are some things to keep in mind to ensure the best results.

First, prepare your nails before painting them. This involves buffing the surface of the nails to remove any shine and ensure that the nail polish adheres properly.

Also, clean the nails to remove any oils or debris.

Secondly, use the right type of nail polish. You can use normal nail polish to paint over acrylic nails.

Choose a high-quality, long-wearing formula to ensure that the polish lasts as long as possible. 

Gel polish is also a good option as it is more durable and long-lasting than normal nail polish.

When applying nail polish, use thin, even layers and let each layer dry completely before applying the next.

This will help to prevent the polish from peeling or chipping off prematurely.

Also, seal the nail polish with a top coat to protect it and make it last longer.

A high-quality, quick-drying top coat can help to prevent chipping and provide a shiny, long-lasting finish.

Why Would You Want to Paint Over Your Acrylics?

Yes, it is okay to paint over acrylic nails! Painting over acrylic nails is a great way to switch up your manicure without having to remove your existing acrylics. 

However, there are some things to keep in mind to ensure the best results.

First, prepare your nails before painting them. This involves buffing the surface of the nails to remove any shine and ensure that the nail polish adheres properly. 

Also, clean the nails to remove any oils or debris.

Secondly, use the right type of nail polish. You can use regular nail polish to paint over acrylic nails. 

Choose a high-quality, long-wearing formula to ensure that the polish lasts as long as possible.

Gel polish is also a good option as it is more durable and long-lasting than normal nail polish.

When applying nail polish, use thin, even layers and let each layer dry completely before applying the next.

This will help to prevent the polish from chipping or peeling off prematurely.

Also, seal the nail polish with a top coat to protect it and make it last longer.

A high-quality, quick-drying top coat can help to prevent chipping and provide a shiny, long-lasting finish.

Read this article to find out the history of fake nails.

How To Prepare Your Acrylic Nails Before You Apply Regular Polish Over The Top?  

Preparing your acrylic nails before applying regular nail polish is essential to ensure that the polish adheres properly and lasts as long as possible. 

Here are the steps to prepare your acrylic nails for normal nail polish:

Clean your nails: Begin by cleaning your nails with a nail polish remover to remove any oils or debris that may be on the nail surface. Use a lint-free cotton pad to avoid any fibers getting stuck on your nails.

Shape your nails: Use a nail file to shape your acrylic nails to your desired shape and length. This is important because irregularities can cause the nail polish to peel or chip.

Buff the nails: Use a soft buffer to gently buff the surface of the acrylic nails. This will help to remove any shine and rough up the surface, allowing the nail polish to adhere better.

How to Paint over Acrylic Nails in 5 Easy Steps

What you’ll need

• Nail polish remover
• Lint-free cotton pads
• Nail file
• Soft buffer
• Base coat
• Nail polish
• Top coat
• Nail polish remover and cotton bud
• UV lamp (optional)
• Moisturizer

Step 1: Removing your old nail polish

The first step to painting over acrylic nails is to remove any existing nail polish from your nails. The easiest way to do this is with a cotton ball and some acetone-free nail polish remover.

Soak the cotton ball in the remover and press it onto each of your nails for about 10–15 seconds before gently wiping away the polish.

Using a nail file, shape your nails into the desired shape. Use a soft buffer to gently buff away any roughness.

This will help create a better surface for the new coat of polish to adhere to.

Step 2: Washing and drying your acrylic nails

Once you’ve removed the old nail polish and shaped your nails, it’s time to wash them.

Use some warm water and a bar of mild soap to remove any residual oils that might be on your nails.

Then pat them dry with a clean towel. Wash your hands with soap and water as well.

Step 3: Applying your base coat

Before applying the new nail, you’ll need to add a base coat. This will help protect your acrylic nails from any damage or staining caused by the new polish.

Use an acetone-free nail polish remover and a cotton pad to apply the base coat. Make sure it is evenly spread over the entire nail.

Ensure that the base coat is completely dry before moving on to the next step. You can dry it using a UV lamp or let it air dry.

Step 4: Repainting your acrylic nails

Once you’ve applied the base coat layer, it’s time to apply the acrylic tips nails. Start with the lightest shade and work your way up to the darkest.

Apply two thin coats of the desired color, making sure each layer is fully dry before applying the next one.

Step 5: Applying the top coat layer

Once you’ve applied the desired color, finish your new nails off with a top coat. This will protect your manicure from chipping and fading.

You can also use a UV lamp to help set the nail polish colors if you have one available.

Finally, apply some moisturizer to help keep your hands soft and hydrated.

Dos and Don’ts of Repainting Acrylic Nails

Here are some detailed dos and don’ts for repainting acrylic nails:

Dos

• Use high-quality acrylic nail products specifically designed for acrylic nails to ensure longevity and durability of your manicure.
• Be gentle when filing and buffing your nails to avoid damaging the natural nail bed.
• Work with good coverage to ensure that your nails are evenly coated with polish and that there are no thin or streaky areas.
• Always use a base coat to protect your nails from staining and a top coat to seal in your polish and prolong the life of your manicure.
• Consider lighter or neutral colors that are forgiving of chips or imperfections, especially if you’re new to repainting acrylic nails.

Don’ts

• Do not use acetone, as it can weaken and damage acrylic nails, making them more prone to breakage or lifting.
• Do not use regular nail polish remover, as it can dry out your nails and damage your acrylics.
• Do not use too much pressure when filing or buffing your nails, as it can cause damage or thinning of the natural nail bed.
• Do not skip the base or top coat, as they are essential for the longevity and durability of your manicure.
• Avoid using dark or bold colors that will show chips or imperfections more easily, especially if you’re new to repainting acrylic nails.
• Do not apply an excessive amount of polish to your nails as this can cause uneven application and will be difficult to remove.
• Avoid using thick coats or applying multiple layers of polish, which can lead to chipping and cracking.

Note: If your acrylics still fall off, read our article; Why did my acrylic nails pop off for more information.

Can You Paint Over Acrylic Nails with Gel Polish? 

Yes, you can paint over acrylic nails with gel polish. Gel polish is a great alternative to regular nail polish because it is more durable and long-lasting. 

It can also be applied over acrylic nails to create a beautiful and long-lasting manicure.

To apply gel polish over acrylic nails, you will need a few extra tools, including a UV or LED lamp to cure the gel polish and a gel base coat and top coat. 

Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Prepare your acrylic nails by cleaning them thoroughly and shaping them with a nail file.

Step 2: Apply a gel base coat to your acrylic nails and cure it under the UV or LED lamp according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 3: Apply your chosen gel polish color to your acrylic nails and cure it under the UV or LED lamp.

Step 4: Apply a second coat of gel polish and cure it again.

Step 5: Apply a gel top coat to seal in the gel polish and cure it under the UV or LED lamp.

Do You Need To Use A Base Coat To Use Nail Polish Over Acrylic Nails? 

Yes, you need a base coat when painting over acrylic nails with regular nail polish. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Prevents staining

A base coat prevents the natural nail and the acrylic nails from staining when the pigments of the nail polish seep through the topcoat and into the nails. 

Nail polish can sometimes contain dyes that can transfer onto the nails and turn them yellow or greenish. 

Using a base coat can help to protect your own natural nails and acrylic nails from these pigments.

2. Increases polish adhesion

A base coat provides a smooth surface for the nail polish to adhere to, which can help to extend the life of your manicure. 

It helps to create a better bond between the polish and the nail, which can help prevent chipping and peeling.

3. Helps to fill in imperfections

Acrylic nails may have some imperfections, such as bumps or ridges. A base coat can help to fill in these imperfections, creating a smoother surface for the polish to adhere to. 

This can help to prevent chipping and peeling.

4. Promotes stronger nails

Some acrylic base coats contain strengthening agents such as proteins and vitamins.

This help to nourish and strengthen the natural nails and acrylic nails, promoting healthy growth and preventing breakage.

Acrylic Nail Design Inspirations

Putting on acrylic nails is a great way to express your personal style and creativity.

With so many design options available, it can be challenging to choose the perfect look for your acrylic nails. 

Here are three acrylic nail design inspirations to consider:

Design 1: Keeping it simple

 Keeping it simple is a great option for those who prefer a more minimalist look. This design is perfect for everyday wear, as well as special events. 

To achieve this look, start with a light or neutral nail color for the base of your acrylic nails. This could be a soft pink, beige, or nude shade. 

Then, add a small accent or detail to make your nails pop. This could be a single stripe or dot in a different color, a small rhinestone, or a simple geometric shape. 

Keeping it simple allows you to show off your personal style while still maintaining a sophisticated and chic look.

Design 2: Reverse French

A reverse French design is a modern reverse of the French manicure. It is perfect if you want to color your nails and still maintain a timeless look. 

To achieve this design, choose a bright or bold color for the tip of your nails and a neutral or light color for the base of your nails. This creates a striking contrast that is both eye-catching and elegant. 

You can also experiment with different shapes and patterns for the tip, such as a diagonal stripe or a geometric shape. 

The reverse French design is versatile and can be adapted to suit any occasion, from a day at the office to a night out on the town.

Design 3: Ombre design

Ombre Design An ombre design is a beautiful and stylish option for acrylic nails. This design features a gradual color transition from one shade to another, creating a subtle gradient effect. 

To achieve this design, choose two or more colors that blend well together and use a makeup sponge to apply the colors in a gradient pattern. 

You can also add glitter or a metallic finish for an extra touch of sparkle. 

The ombre design is a versatile look that can be customized to suit any personal style, from bold and vibrant colors to soft and subtle hues.

How Long Does Regular Polish Last on Acrylic Nails? 

The amount of time that regular nail polish will stay on acrylic nails can change. This is based on the quality of the polish and how much your regular nails are used.

In general, regular polish can last anywhere from 5-10 days on acrylic nails.

It’s important to note that acrylic nails are harder and more durable than natural nails, which can sometimes make it difficult for regular polish to adhere properly.

To help your regular polish last longer on your acrylic nails, be sure to use a high-quality base coat and top coat.

The base coat will help to create a smooth surface for the polish to adhere to, while the top coat will help to seal in the color and prevent chipping.

Things that can make your acrylic nails not last long are water and chemicals, like cleaning products. They can also wear out faster if you use your hands a lot, like typing or playing sports.

To keep your nail polish looking good for longer, try not to get your nails wet or use chemicals. Also, be careful with how you use your hands.

What is the Best Nail Polish for Acrylic Nails?

1. OPI Nail Lacquer

This OPI nail lacquer has a wide range of shades to choose from. The formula is also enriched with pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E to strengthen and protect nails. 

This lacquer nail polish goes on smoothly and evenly, with a high-shine finish that lasts for up to two weeks without chipping.

What I Liked About This Product

• Wide range of colors to choose from, with new shades frequently released
• Long-lasting formula that resists chipping and fading
• Goes on smoothly and evenly, with a high-shine finish
• Enriched with pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E to strengthen and protect nails
• Can be easily removed with normal nail polish removers

What Could Be Improved

• Thick and gloopy, making the application more difficult
• May require two or more coats to achieve full coverage, especially with lighter shades
• The price point may be higher than other nail polish brands on the market

2. Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish

The Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish provides a salon-quality look without the need for UV lamps or base coats.

The two-step process involves applying the color coat and then sealing it with a top coat, which creates a durable, high-shine finish that lasts for up to 14 days. 

What I Liked About This Product

• Gel-like finish without the need for UV lamps or base coats
• Wide range of colors is available, with new shades frequently released
• Easy to apply with a smooth, even finish
• Can be removed with regular nail polish remover

What Could Be Improved

• The formula can be thick and difficult to work with.
• The topcoat may take longer to dry than the color coat.
• The polish chips or peels after a few days, despite the long-wear claims.

3. Essie Gel Couture Nail Paint

This Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish has a gel-like shine and is designed to last for up to 14 days without chipping or peeling. The formula is also infused with keratin to help strengthen nails. 

The polish is easy to apply and dries quickly, with a high-shine finish that doesn’t dull over time. The brush is also designed to make application easier and more precise.

What I Liked About This Product

• Gel-like shine without the need for UV lamps or base coats
• Wide range of colors is available, with new shades frequently released
• Infused with keratin to help strengthen nails

What Could Be Improved

• It’s thick and difficult to work with, leading to streaks or clumps
• Difficult to remove with normal nail polish remover

Gel vs. Acrylic

While both gel and acrylic paints provide a durable and long-lasting finish, they have different properties and application techniques. Let’s look at the key differences between gel and acrylic nails.

Composition: Gel is made up of a gel-like substance that is cured under UV or LED light. Acrylic is a mixture of a liquid monomer and a powder polymer that hardens when exposed to air.

Application: Gel is applied in layers and cured under a UV or LED lamp after each layer. Acrylic is applied by mixing the liquid and powder together on a brush and then applied to the nail.

Appearance: Gel tends to have a more natural, glossy finish, while acrylic can have a more matte or glossy finish depending on the products used.

Durability: Both gel and acrylic can last for several weeks with proper care, but acrylic may be more durable and less prone to chipping.

Removal: Gel is easier to remove than acrylic. You can soak it off with acetone, while acrylic often requires filing or drilling to remove.

Pros and cons of gel nails and acrylic nails

What I Liked About Gel Nails

• Mimic the look of natural nails
• Flexible than acrylic nails. This means they are less likely to crack or break
• Less likely to turn yellow over time

What Could Be Improved

• More expensive than acrylic nails.
• They require UV or LED light to cure
• More difficult to remove than acrylic nails.

What I Liked About Acrylic Nails

• They are less likely to chip or break than natural nails or acrylic gel nails.
• Easy to apply.
• Less expensive than gel nails.

What Could Be Improved

• Have a strong odor that some people find unpleasant.
• Can turn yellow over time, especially if they are exposed to sunlight or tanning beds.
• Some people may be allergic to the chemicals used in acrylic nails.

FAQs

Related post: Can I paint acrylic over enamel?

Conclusion

Painting over acrylic nails is a fun and cost-effective way to switch up your nail game. Using nail wraps is fun because you can try out different colors and designs.

It also gives your nails a new look without taking the acrylics off. However, ensure that your nails are properly prepped and clean before painting to ensure a long-lasting and flawless finish.

With a little practice and some creativity, you can transform your acrylic nails into a work of art that reflects your unique style and personality. 

So why not give it a try and see what stunning designs you can come up with?