Acrylic nails used to be EVERYTHING. Long square French tips were everywhere. Accent nails usually the ring finger and thumb, abstract nail designs, crystals and even nail piercings were a "thing".
So where did they come from? This ones an interesting story.
One of my favourite nail industry facts is that acrylic nails were invented by a dentist.
In the 1950s, Fred Slack broke a fingernail and used dental acrylic to fix it. That little DIY repair ended up becoming the blueprint for acrylic nail enhancements as we know them today.
Dental acrylic obviously wasn’t created for beauty — but it was strong. And strength, it turns out, is kind of important when you’re building nails that actually last.
Over time, formulas were refined, safety standards improved, and acrylic became a professional salon product — not a DIY science experiment (thankfully).
The 90s: When Acrylic Nails Had No Chill
By the time the 80s and 90s rolled around, acrylic nails were unstoppable.
- Long square shapes
- Bold French tips
- Airbrushing, glitter, gems — the lot
- Even nail piercings
Were they subtle? No.
Were they iconic? Absolutely yes.
And while trends have come and gone since then, acrylic has quietly stuck around — even when people love to say “acrylics are outdated”.
(They’re not. Old style outdated acrylics are.)
Acrylic Nails Today: Strong, Structured, and Still Elite
Modern acrylic is a completely different beast to what many people remember. Today’s systems are lighter, better formulated, and far more refined.
Acrylic isn’t just about length anymore — it’s about structure, balance, and durability.
Used correctly, acrylic allows us to:
- Strengthen weak or damaged nails
- Create proper apex and support
- Customise shape for each client
- Build nails that actually survive real life
And no — acrylic does not “ruin nails”. Poor prep and poor application do.
Tough love, but it needs saying.
Why Acrylic Is Still My Go-To Nail System
Out of all the nail systems available today — builder gel, hard gel, BIAB — acrylic is still my personal go-to.
Why?
- Unmatched strength
- Total control over structure
- Long-lasting results
- Ideal for clients who are tough on their hands
If someone comes to me saying “nothing lasts on my nails”, acrylic is often the answer — not the problem.
Why I Still Teach Acrylic (and Always Will)
Acrylic has a reputation problem, and honestly? That usually comes down to lack of education.
Acrylic is not outdated.
It’s not damaging.
And it’s definitely not “old school” when it’s applied properly.
That’s exactly why I still teach acrylic — from beginners learning the basics, to experienced techs who want to refine structure, speed, and longevity.
Because acrylic done right is a skill — and when you master it, it becomes one of the most versatile tools you can have as a nail tech.
Old School Roots, Modern Tough Love
Personally, acrylics have most definitely earnt their place in my heart.
Trends will always change.
Techniques will keep evolving.
But a solid set of acrylics?
Still undefeated 💅🖤