Acrylic & Monomer

Acrylic nail enhancements have been a salon staple for decades — and the results come down to the quality of your products. Browse our acrylic powders and monomers sourced from trusted professional brands, formulated for consistent bead formation, smooth application, and lasting wear. Whether you're building full sets, backfills, or sculpted extensions, you'll find the right formula here. Pair your acrylic system with our acrylic nail tips, nail brushes, and files and buffers for a complete acrylic setup.

Everything You Need for Professional Acrylic Nail Services

Acrylic nails remain one of the most requested services in any nail salon — and for good reason. A well-applied acrylic set is durable, versatile, and a canvas for endless nail art creativity. At Em Beauty, we carry acrylic powders and monomers suited to a range of working styles, from fast-setting formulas favored by high-volume salons to slower, more workable options that give newer techs more control during application.

Choosing the Right Acrylic System

Not all acrylic systems work the same way. Matching your powder to a compatible monomer is key to achieving the right consistency, adhesion, and cure time. If you're sticking with a specific brand ecosystem, you'll find dedicated brand collections from names like EzFlow, CND, and Chisel — each with their own proven acrylic lines. Mixing brands is possible but always worth testing before using on clients.

Tips, Forms, and Nail Prep

Great acrylic work starts well before you pick up your brush. Proper nail prep — pushing back cuticles, lightly buffing the natural nail, and applying a dehydrator or primer — makes a significant difference in how long an enhancement wears. Browse our cuticle tools and nail essentials and implements to make sure your station is fully stocked. For building extensions, pair your acrylic with acrylic nail tips in a variety of shapes, or explore natural tips for a softer, more blended look.

Shaping, Filing, and Finishing

Once your acrylic has set, shaping and refining the enhancement is just as important as the application itself. A quality nail drill with the right drill bits speeds up filing and backfill work considerably. Follow up with files and buffers to smooth the surface before finishing with your choice of gel polish or lacquer. For clients who love nail art, acrylic sets make an excellent base for chrome powders, rhinestones and charms, and glitter and flakes.

For Nail Techs and Students

Whether you're stocking a full salon, building your kit as a nail tech, or learning acrylic application for the first time, Em Beauty carries products at a range of price points. Students and newer technicians will appreciate having consistent, forgiving formulas on hand while they develop their bead ratio and application technique. More experienced techs will find the professional-grade systems they rely on for back-to-back client appointments. Check out our nail brushes to find acrylic-specific kolinsky and synthetic options that suit your preferred working style.

Can I mix different brands of acrylic powder and monomer?

It's possible to mix brands, but it's not always recommended. Different formulas are designed with specific ratios and cure times in mind. Mixing brands can affect bead consistency, adhesion, and flexibility. If you're trying a new combination, always do a patch test before using it on clients. For the most predictable results, stick to matched systems from brands like CND or EzFlow.

What's the difference between acrylic and builder gel (BIAB)?

Acrylic uses a liquid monomer and powder that cure through a chemical reaction, while builder gel — also called BIAB — is a thicker UV or LED-cured gel. Acrylic tends to be harder and more durable for full extensions, while builder gel is often preferred for overlay or soft extensions with a more flexible feel. Explore our builder gel and BIAB collection if you'd like to compare options.

What nail tips work best with acrylic?

Most standard plastic tips are compatible with acrylic systems. The best shape depends on your client's preference and nail structure. Browse acrylic nail tips in coffin, square, stiletto, and more. For a seamless blend with the natural nail, natural tips are a popular choice among techs who want a softer, thin-edge look.

What tools do I need to apply acrylic nails?

A basic acrylic setup includes a quality acrylic brush, monomer dappen dish, primer or dehydrator, nail tips or forms, and files for shaping. A nail drill is helpful for backfills and refinement. You'll also want cuticle tools for prep and files and buffers for finishing. See our nail essentials and implements collection for more station must-haves.

How do I finish an acrylic set?

After shaping and buffing the acrylic smooth, you can finish with gel polish cured under a UV or LED lamp, traditional lacquer, or decorative finishes like chrome powder or glitter. A top gel or top coat helps seal and protect the finished look regardless of which color system you use.

Do you carry acrylic supplies for both salons and home use?

Yes. Em Beauty serves professional nail techs, salon owners, students, and at-home enthusiasts. Our acrylic and monomer collection includes options suited to different experience levels and service volumes. If you're looking to stock up at quantity, check out our wholesale collection or browse salon must-haves for a curated look at what busy salons keep on hand.