Nails & Enhancements

Acrylic Nails

Strong, sculpted nails shaped exactly the way you love them.

From $45~30 to 45 minLasts 2 to 3 weeks between fill-in appointments.

Acrylic nails are built by combining a liquid monomer with a powder polymer, creating a workable bead that our technicians sculpt directly onto each nail. As the mixture sets in the open air, it hardens into a firm, durable surface that holds length and shape beautifully. The result is a full set of nails that can handle the demands of daily life in Champaign without chipping or breaking under normal use.

At Beauty Nails Spa, Hannah and the team take special care during the prep stage, gently buffing the natural nail to ensure the acrylic bonds properly without over-filing. We use premium acrylic products for a smooth, even finish that takes gel color, regular polish, or detailed nail art equally well. Whether you want a short, natural-looking set or long coffin-shaped nails, acrylics give us the most versatility to sculpt exactly what you have in mind.

Why you will love it

  • Exceptionally durable surface holds up to daily wear without chipping
  • Versatile shaping, from short and round to long coffin or stiletto
  • Bonds firmly to the natural nail for a secure, long-lasting foundation
  • Works with gel color, regular polish, chrome powder, or hand-painted art
  • Corrects uneven nail lengths for a perfectly uniform set
  • Tools sterilized between every client at our Champaign salon

Who it is for

Acrylic nails are ideal for anyone who wants added length, extra strength for nails that break easily, or a sculpted shape that natural nails cannot hold on their own. They are a popular choice among Champaign clients who want a bold, polished look that stays intact for weeks at a time.

What to expect

  1. 1

    Shape consultation

    We discuss your preferred length and shape, whether that is oval, square, coffin, almond, or stiletto, before any product touches your nails.

  2. 2

    Natural nail prep

    Nails are cleaned, cuticles are pushed back gently, and the nail plate is lightly buffed using sterilized tools to help the acrylic bond without damaging the natural nail.

  3. 3

    Tip or form placement

    A nail tip or paper form is fitted to each finger to establish the length and guide the structure of the enhancement.

  4. 4

    Acrylic bead application

    Liquid monomer and powder polymer are mixed on a brush, then applied in precise beads to the nail, building shape and structure as the mixture self-hardens.

  5. 5

    Filing and shaping

    Once fully hardened, each nail is filed to the final shape, edges are beveled, and the surface is smoothed for a seamless finish.

  6. 6

    Color and top coat

    Your chosen color is applied, including gel color, regular polish, or chrome, and sealed with a top coat for lasting shine and protection.

Longevity and aftercareLasts 2 to 3 weeks between fill-in appointments.

  • Avoid using your nails as tools for prying or scraping to protect the enhancement from lifting
  • Keep cuticles moisturized with daily oil application around the base of each nail
  • Return every 2 to 3 weeks for a fill-in to maintain the look as your natural nails grow
  • If a nail lifts at the edge, contact us for a repair rather than trying to re-glue it at home
  • Wear gloves during prolonged water exposure to extend the life of your set
Our work

Recent looks from our studio

A few sets created by our team in Champaign. Bring a photo and we will tailor the perfect look to you.

Natural nude nails with a clean, classic shape
Black and gold glitter coffin nails with crystal accents by Beauty Nails Spa
Soft pink and white French nails on a plush white background
Festive confetti nail art with soft floral accents
Good to know

Acrylic Nails FAQs

Will getting acrylics damage my natural nails?
When applied and removed correctly, the impact on your natural nails is minimal. At Beauty Nails Spa, we buff only as much as necessary for adhesion and always recommend a professional soak-off removal rather than picking or forcing the enhancement off at home.
How often do I need to come back for fills?
Most clients return every 2 to 3 weeks for an acrylic fill-in. The fill covers the gap of new nail growth at the base so your set always looks fresh and the structure stays solid.
Can I get nail art added to my acrylic set?
Absolutely. Custom nail art is available on request and can be added to any acrylic set. Designs range from a single accent nail to full-set hand-painted artwork, and pricing is based on the complexity of what you choose.
What is the difference between acrylic and Gel X?
Acrylic is sculpted from liquid monomer and powder polymer that hardens in air, giving the technician a lot of control over shape and length. Gel X uses soft gel full-cover tips that are bonded to the natural nail and cured under an LED lamp. Gel X tends to feel slightly lighter and more flexible, while acrylic is firmer and especially good for adding significant length.

Book your acrylic nails in Champaign

Book your appointment or call us today. Walk-ins are always welcome, and our friendly team is ready to pamper you.