Here’s the short answer: Acrylic nail tips last two to three weeks before needing a refill. If you look after them properly—moisturise, avoid water, use gloves—they’ll stay strong and fresh for the full three. If you type a lot, wash dishes daily, or skip care? Expect cracks and lifting in just over a week.
Now, let’s get real. You’ve probably seen influencers stretch their acrylics for a whole month. Maybe your mate swears by her local nail tech in Manchester. Maybe you’ve had yours fall off after ten days and thought, “Is this normal?” This guide cuts through the confusion. We’re breaking down how long acrylic nail tips actually last in the UK in 2025—and what you’re really paying for in salons from London to Glasgow.
What Are Acrylic Nail Tips?
Let’s start with the basics. Acrylic nails are made by mixing a liquid monomer with a powder polymer. This creates a thick paste that hardens when exposed to air. Nail technicians shape it onto your natural nail or a plastic tip. Once dry, it forms a hard, protective layer that can be shaped, filed, and painted.
There are two main types:
- Sculpted acrylics built on forms
- Tip-and-overlay acrylics using plastic extensions
Both look the same when finished. The difference comes down to the method. Most salons in the UK use the tip-and-overlay method. It’s faster, cheaper, and ideal for beginners.
How Long Do Acrylic Nail Tips Last with Normal Care?
If you do things by the book, acrylic nails last around 2 to 3 weeks before needing infills. After that, the gap between your natural nail and the acrylic shows. That’s when most people return to the salon.
Regular infills allow you to keep the same set going for up to 2 or 3 months. But that only works if your nails stay in good shape. No lifting, cracking, or infection.
Daily activities like washing hands, handling bags, typing, or driving don’t shorten the life of acrylics too much. But you still need to care for them.
What Shortens Acrylic Nail Life?
Even the best acrylics will lift early if you don’t look after them. Here’s what weakens them:
- Soaking your hands in water for long periods
- Using nails as tools to open cans or scratch surfaces
- Skipping moisturiser or cuticle oil
- Letting product build-up under the nail edge
- Not wearing gloves for cleaning or dishes
- Picking or biting the acrylic edges
If you work with your hands—hairdresser, cleaner, chef, barista—you’ll need infills every 10 to 14 days. Don’t wait for chips or pain to book an appointment.
How Much Do Acrylic Nails Cost in the UK in 2025?
Acrylic nail prices vary based on where you are and what style you choose. Here’s a breakdown by city for 2025:
Full Set Prices
- London: £45
- Manchester: £35
- Birmingham: £40
- Glasgow: £35–40
- UK Average: £30–45
Infills (Refills)
- London: £42
- Manchester: £30
- Birmingham: £35
- Glasgow: £30–35
- UK Average: £30–40
Add-on services like gel polish, ombré, or hand-painted art can raise the cost by £10 to £20. High-end salons charge more. But that often comes with better products and cleaner results.
What Happens If You Skip Infills?
This is where problems start. If you let the acrylic grow out without an infill:
- You get a visible gap near the cuticle
- Water and dirt can collect, risking infection
- The acrylic becomes top-heavy and may snap
- Your natural nail underneath weakens
Some people try to patch it at home with glue. Don’t. It can trap bacteria and lead to fungus.
If the damage gets too far, you’ll need a full removal. That costs more and takes longer.
How Often Should You Remove Acrylics Completely?
Even with regular infills, your nails need breaks. Most nail techs recommend removing the full set every 8 to 12 weeks. That gives your natural nail time to recover.
Signs it’s time for a full removal:
- Too much lifting
- Nail bed pain
- Discolouration
- Acrylic feels too thick
Acrylic removal should be done in a salon. Soaking in acetone takes 20 to 30 minutes. DIY removal often results in peeling and damage.
Can You Do Acrylic Nails at Home?
Yes—if you know what you’re doing. DIY acrylic kits are easy to find in the UK. But using them takes patience and practice.
Basic Home Kits
- Price: £30–40
- Includes: powder, liquid, tips, brush, files
- Good for learning, quick fixes, small touch-ups
Professional Kits
- Price: £100–150
- Includes: full toolset, dehydrator, primer, quality powder
- Good for advanced users or trained techs
Most first-time users struggle with applications. Lifting is common. Drying time can vary. And mistakes often weaken the nails.
Unless you’re confident or trained, stick with salon sets. DIY is cheaper, but mistakes cost more in the long run.
Acrylic Nails vs. Gel Extensions: What Lasts Longer?
Both last about 2 to 3 weeks before needing upkeep. But gel extensions tend to be lighter and more flexible. Acrylics are harder and more durable.
Choose acrylic if:
- You want strong, rigid nails
- You’re on a tighter budget
- You prefer classic styles
Choose gel if:
- You want a natural look
- You need flexibility (e.g. for typing)
- Do you prefer soak-off options
In the UK, acrylics are still more common. But many salons now offer both.
How to Make Acrylic Nail Tips Last Longer
You can extend the life of your acrylics with a few simple habits:
- Use gloves for any cleaning or washing
- Apply cuticle oil every day
- Don’t bite, pick, or file your nails between visits
- Moisturise your hands often
- Tap with your finger pads, not your tips
Stick to these rules, and your nails should last the full three weeks, sometimes longer.
When Not to Get Acrylic Nails
Acrylics aren’t for everyone. Skip them if:
- Your natural nails are weak or peeling
- You’ve had a recent nail infection
- You can’t commit to maintenance
- Your job bans long nails
- You work with food or chemicals
In those cases, consider short gel overlays or builder gel instead. They’re easier to manage and less damaging over time.
Final Answer: How Long Do Acrylic Nail Tips Last?
Let’s wrap it up clearly. Acrylic nail tips last two to three weeks with good care. That means infills every 14 to 21 days. If you’re rough on your hands, it might be closer to ten days.
With infills and upkeep, the same base set can stay on for up to 2 or 3 months. But after that, a full removal is wise.
The keys to long-lasting acrylics are simple:
- Choose a skilled technician
- Follow aftercare instructions
- Keep your hands moisturised
- Avoid using nails as tools
Treat them like a fashion investment. Look after them, and they’ll look after you.
Want to Go Pro?
Ready to dive deeper into nail care or even train as a technician? Check out our Acrylic Nail Training Course at Unified Course. Learn to apply, maintain, and remove acrylics the right way—and maybe start your own side hustle.
Because nails aren’t just about looks. They’re about skill, precision, and care. And it starts here.
