![](https://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/750x400p/photos.demandstudios.com/getty/article/151/161/76729744.jpg)
Acrylic nails, oftentimes, must be applied using a fingernail glue, which is effectively the same as regular cyanoacrylate or super glue. However, plenty of products exist that allow you to simply peel and stick, eliminating a potential mess and facilitating easier removal.
Step 1
Select the size of nail you want. Acrylic nails come in different lengths and widths to fit a variety of fingers.
Step 2
File your natural nails so they are fingertip length or shorter.
Step 3
Clean your fingernails with rubbing alcohol and a cotton ball, or the alcohol pad supplied with the kit, if present. If you have any previous nail polish, remove this with acetone or nail-polish remover.
Step 4
Flip over the first acrylic nail you wish to apply. Carefully remove the adhesive backing with a pair of tweezers.
Step 5
Center the nail on your natural one. Press and hold firmly for at least 15 seconds, ensuring a tight bond.
Step 6
File the acrylic nails as desired.
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References
Writer Bio
David Lipscomb is a professional writer and public relations practitioner. Lipscomb brings more than a decade of experience in the consumer electronics and advertising industries. Lipscomb holds a degree in public relations from Webster University.
Photo Credits
Creatas/Creatas/Getty Images