How to Apply Acrylic Tips and Overlays

BEFORE YOU BEGIN: Prep those nails! Follow OPI Prep step basics or e-file prep step-by-steps.

Size tips to nails making sure they cover the nail from one side to the other. If nail is between tip sizes, size up and tailor to fit.

Apply a small amount of Powder Perfection Base Coat to the contact area of the tip.

Line the tip up to the natural nail, holding it at a 45-degree angle. If the tip has a stop point, guide the stop point up to the free edge of the nail and rock the tip up to meet the surface of the nail. Hold for 3-5 seconds, allowing the adhesive to set. Repeat on remaining nails.

Trim length if needed. File tip to desired shape with a 180-grit file.

Blend the tip to the natural nail with a 180-grit file, followed by a 100/180-grit buffer to further smooth and refine the tip. Optional: Use an e-file with a medium carbide bit at medium speed in place of hand files if desired. Repeat on all nails.

Remove any dust with a manicure brush and cleanse with a nail wipe saturated with N.A.S. 99 Cleansing Solution.

Apply a coat of Bond Aid to the natural nails, avoiding contact with the nail tip. Allow to dry.

Mix ratio for Liquid Perfection Monomer should be medium-wet and the bead should have a slight texture similar to an orange peel, but should not be powdery.

Pick up a medium-wet bead of Absolute Acrylic or Powder Perfection Powder and place it in the center of the nail. Do not wipe the brush. You will need the remaining monomer to guide the product.

Use the tip of the brush to guide and taper the product over the nail and tip tapering thin at the extension edge. Use the tip of the brush to smooth the surface of the product.

Apply a second bead of product using the tip of the brush to guide the bead back to the cuticle line, leaving a slim margin to avoid touching skin and blend into the last bead.

Allow the product to set up before filing, approximately 3-4 minutes for Absolute Acrylic Powders and 5-6 for Powder Perfection Powders.

Pro Tip: Finish nails with your choice of OPI GelColor Shade or your favorite OPI GelColor Top Coat, following OPI GelColor step-by-steps.

Refine the shape with a 180-grit file or an e-file using a medium carbide bit.

Refine the surface of nails with a 180-grit file or an e-file and a medium grit carbide bit.

Cleanse nails with a nail wipe saturated with N.A.S. 99 Cleansing Solution.

Apply a drop of Nail & Cuticle Oil to the base of each nail and massage in.