Pro tip: If you want to work your way up the brush size ladder, maybe go for a size 18 or 20 and you are not sure if it would be suitable for you. You can get a cheaper synthetic brush to practice with before investing in a Kolinsky sable brush.
What Size Acrylic Nail Brush Is The Best?
Hey there, nail technicians! Let’s talk about the most important tool in your arsenal—the brush. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, finding the right size brush for acrylic nails can make a world of difference in your nail game.
So, let’s dive in and explore the best brush size for acrylic nails.
What Type Of Brush Should I Use For Acrylic Nails?
Before wondering what size or shape to buy, make sure it’s made from 100% Kolinsky sable hair.
These brushes hold the perfect mix of liquid and powder and allow you a great degree of manipulation of an acrylic ball.
Is A Round Or Flat Acrylic Nail Brush Best?
As a nail technician, one of the first decisions you’ll have to make is what shape of brush to use for acrylic nails.
It may seem like a small detail, but the shape of your brush can actually have a big impact on the quality of your work.
So, should you go for a round brush or a flat brush? Let’s break it down.
Round Brushes
The round brush is great for nail technicians who understand the basics of acrylic applications and are just about to start their careers. This is because they hold just enough amount of liquid to get the perfect liquid-to-powder ratio.
Another great thing about round brushes with their pointed tips is that they make it easier to work around the nail edges or cuticle and do some detail work.
Flat Or Square Brushes
Now, flat or square brushes. Flat brushes have the advantage of being very easy to use in applying acrylic along the length of the nail. It is great for you if you are just getting started in nail school.
But the problem with flat brushes is that it doesn’t hold enough liquid and might leave you with very thick beads. Also, they are not the best brush option when trying to sculpt a nail.
The Oval Brush
Nail manufacturers have begun to produce a new brand of acrylic nail brushes. The oval brush.
The oval brush is a hybrid between the flat and the round. It has the same rounded belly as a round brush and the benefit of a curved/pointed edge.
However, the point where the bristles make contact with the ferrule is a bit flatter (crimped) than the round brush. This makes the tip of the brush fan out a bit in a curved shape rather than the pointed tip of a round brush but a lot more curved than the flat one.
CREDITS The oval brush is perfect for a nail technician because it holds the right amount of liquid and fits perfectly into the cuticle area letting you set the acrylic just right.
In addition, you can still shape the tip of your oval brush into a point for detail work.
However, a nail brush is something very personal to each technician so you might have to try out several brushes before settling for one.
What shape of acrylic nail brush should you use? The video below describes the difference in the brushes.
The Importance of Acrylic Nail Brushes
Acrylic nail brushes have natural fiber bristles that hold liquid monomers and allow you to pick up beads. These brushes are a salon essential help nail techs complete acrylic sets. However, they’re also necessary for at-home manicures.
Like paint brushes, acrylic nail brushes range in size and shape. People often debate whether the size of acrylic brushes matters. Well, we’re here to confirm that brush size matters! The right brush should cover the nail tip without leaving streaks. The right size also helps you create intricate designs like swirls and lines.
Size Guide for Acrylic Brushes
Acrylic nail brushes determine the appearance of manicures. Achieve the perfect set by understanding the different size brushes and who should use them. For guidance, take a look at this guide to acrylic nail brush sizes:
- Sizes 2 and 4 – These are small brushes best for small nails or detailed work like fill-ins or intricate designs. Both beginner and experienced nail techs can use these brushes.
- Sizes 6 and 8 – These are medium-sized brushes that are small enough for intricate designs but large enough for sculpting. They’re easy to use and ideal for beginner techs.
- Sizes 10 and above – These are large brushes that are suitable for quick application on long extensions. They’re ideal for experienced nail techs.
It’s All About Control
Determining your perfect brush size depends on your experience level. Smaller brushes offer better control as you make small strokes and detailed designs. However, working with smaller brushes is time-consuming. On the other hand, bigger brushes cover a lot of surface area, which is great for quick application.
Many beginner acrylic kits come with size 8 brushes that allow newbies to practice full-coverage looks and tiny decals.
Pick a brush you’re comfortable with, depending on your level of expertise. However, you should also keep a range of sizes on hand!
Acrylic Brush Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance of your acrylic brushes are essential to ensure their longevity and optimal performance.
Make sure to follow these tips by heart to you keep your acrylic brushes in excellent condition for longer.
Be Gentle
When using your acrylic brushes, be gentle and avoid applying excessive pressure. Acrylic brushes are delicate tools, and rough handling can lead to bristle damage and breakage.
Clean Your Brushes Immediately
After each use, ensure to clean your acrylic brushes thoroughly to remove any acrylic residue.
Dip the bristles in monomer and gently wipe them on a lint-free paper towel or cloth. Repeat this process until you’re sure the brush is clean and free of any product buildup.
Avoid Excessive Acrylic Buildup
While working, try to minimize the amount of acrylic product that accumulates near the brush’s ferrule. Excessive buildup can harden and compromise the bristles’ flexibility and performance.
Wipe off excess acrylic regularly during application to prevent buildup.
Shape and Reshape the Bristles
To maintain the desired shape of your acrylic brush’s bristles, reshape them while they are still wet after cleaning.
Use your fingers or a brush shaper tool to gently reshape the bristles into their original form. Allow the brushes to dry completely in their proper shape.
Store Brushes Properly
Store your acrylic brushes in a clean and dry container, such as a brush holder or case, to protect them from dust, moisture, and other damaging environmental factors. Make sure the brushes are not bent or crushed to preserve their shape.
Avoid Contact With Harsh Chemicals
Keep your acrylic brushes away from harsh chemicals, such as acetone or nail polish remover, as they can damage the bristles and affect their performance.
Additionally, avoid exposing the brushes to extreme heat or direct sunlight, as this can cause the bristles to warp or melt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Large Acrylic Brush To Pick Up Smaller Beads?
No, it is not recommended.
First, the size of the brush directly affects your ability to achieve precision and control during the application process.
A larger brush may make it more challenging for you to accurately pick up the desired amount of acrylic powder. Hence, it may result in uneven distribution and potentially affect the final look of the nail.
Next, the consistency of the acrylic mixture can be compromised when using a larger brush with smaller beads.
The ratio of acrylic liquid to powder is crucial for creating a workable and smooth bead. By using a larger brush, you may unintentionally alter this ratio.
Furthermore, a large brush may not be able to effectively maneuver and work with smaller beads. The bristles of a larger brush are generally wider and less precise, making it challenging to place the beads accurately on the nail surface.
Is an Oval or a Round Acrylic Nail Brush Better for a Beginner?
We recommend choosing a brush with a round shape if you want an acrylic nail brush for beginners.
Round brushes offer versatility in terms of application techniques. They are ideal for both detailed work and creating larger, sweeping strokes. This versatility allows beginners to practice a wide range of nail art techniques.
Also, round-shaped brushes allow for easier control, especially for beginners who are still developing their brush control skills. It allows for smoother movements and helps prevent sharp lines or edges.
Synthetic Fibers vs. Animal Hair: Which Is Better for Acrylic Brushes?
If you ask us what’s the preferred material for the acrylic brush bristles, synthetic fibers would be your best bet.
Synthetic bristles, such as nylon, are favored for their durability and resistance to chemicals found in acrylic products.
These synthetic fibers are specifically designed to withstand repeated exposure to acrylic liquids and powders without becoming frayed or damaged.
They are also less prone to absorbing moisture, which helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and product residue, allowing the brushes to enjoy a longer life span.
Can You Use Paint Brushes for Acrylic Nails Instead of Acrylic Brushes?
No, we don’t recommend it.
While paint brushes and acrylic brushes may seem similar, there are significant differences that make acrylic brushes better suited for the job.
Acrylic brushes are specifically designed for working with acrylic products, ensuring optimal performance and results.
For example, the bristles of acrylic brushes are made to withstand the chemicals and solvents present in acrylic products.
They are also designed to hold and distribute acrylic powder and liquid efficiently, allowing for precise and controlled application.
Additionally, the shape and size of acrylic brushes are specifically tailored for nail enhancements. They often have a pointed or flat tip, allowing for better maneuverability and accurate placement of acrylic beads.
Paint brushes, on the other hand, are not designed for these specific requirements and may not be able to handle the chemicals or provide the desired control.
Want Picture-Perfect Acrylic Nails? Consider Your Acrylic Brush’s Size
Selecting the best acrylic nail brush size is a personal choice that depends on your preferred techniques, the complexity of your designs, and your expertise level.
Whether you opt for a small-sized brush for intricate nail art, a medium-sized brush for versatility, or a large-sized brush for quick acrylic application, remember that practice and experimentation will help you master the art of acrylic nails.
With the right brush in your hand, your nail art creations will flourish, allowing you to showcase your talent and create stunning designs.
Want To Learn More About Acrylic Nails?
Check these articles:
- Acrylics for Toenails: Everything About Fake Nails on Toes
- Acrylic Nail Prices: How Much Do Acrylic Nails Cost?
- How To Remove Acrylic Nails With Hot Water: Step-by-Step Guide
Jan, a distinguished freelance makeup artist, also boasts a BA in Mass Communication, laying the foundation for her diverse talents. For over four years, she’s carved a niche as a captivating content writer, with her articles resonating in various spheres. Beyond writing, her expertise extends to crafting robust Public Relations and Corporate Communications strategies. Each endeavor reflects Jan’s unique blend of creativity and precision
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