Regular nail polish has a tough time standing up to daily stresses like hair washing and that last pile of dishes. Acrylic nails will see you through two to three weeks of tasks, all while creating the look of strong and healthy nails. If the color you initially chose for the acrylics isn't suiting your look, a polish change can hold you over to your next fill. Changing acrylic nail polish requires a different removal process to avoid lifting the acrylic nail, but the right techniques are fairly easy to master.

To prep your nails for polish removal, use a nail brush and an antibacterial soap to remove all dirt or chipped polish. Soak a cotton pad in acetone polish remover and scrub each nail until the polish is removed. Acetone removers are stronger than their non-acetone counterparts, cutting through the thick polish with ease and strengthening your nails to avoid cracking. Dry your nails completely with a clean towel. Position the nail brush at the base of your nail and sweep the new color on in one stroke. Allow the color to dry and apply one more coat. Seal the color with one layer of an acrylic top coat.

Add custom designs to your acrylic nails to set your look apart. For glittery nails, dip the mixed acrylic into finely milled glitter and apply it to the nail in a thin layer with the glitter facing up. This will ensure that there is less glitter than resin, keeping the nail strong. Dip a toothpick into acrylic polish and dab it over the nails to create a polka-dot pattern. Experiment with creating your own drawings using a small paintbrush and a color that contrasts with the base coat.

Acrylic nails are made of a resin that is a blend of liquid and powder. The primary ingredient is Ethyl Methacrylate in traditional acrylics, but a water-based solution has also been developed as a more environmentally friendly option. Nails are primed with an acid-based primer that helps the resin to adhere to the natural nail. Technicians mix the acrylic liquid and powder, and apply it over top of nail-shaped forms on the fingertips. The resin is then shaped as it dries and the form is rolled off to secure the acrylic to the nails. Once dry, the tips are buffed and nails are painted with a regular polish. Acrylic nails should be finished with a top coat, preferably anti-fungal to prevent infection if the nail becomes cracked.

Acrylic polish lasts longer with daily maintenance. Wear gloves if your hands will be submerged in water for an excessive period of time, and always thoroughly dry your nails after washing your hands. This will prevent water from penetrating the polish and nail and help avoid infection. Use emollient oil-free hand cream every morning and night to keep nails hydrated and avoid cracking. Keep your hands away from essential oils that could break down the polish and nails.