Yes, you can fix a broken acrylic nail without replacing the entire enhancement. Depending on severity, repair using nail glue, a tea bag or silk wrap, or builder gel to restore strength and appearance.
Common Causes of Breakage
Excessive force or trauma. Incorrect application creating weak points. Water exposure causing lifting. Using nails as tools.
Repair Method 1: Nail Glue and Tea Bag
Best for small cracks.
What You’ll Need: Rubbing alcohol, nail glue, tea bag paper, nail file and buffer, top coat.
Steps:
- Sanitise the nail
- Apply glue into crack, press together
- Cut tea bag paper to fit over crack
- Apply glue over area, press fabric down
- Apply additional glue, let dry
- Buff smooth, apply top coat
Repair Method 2: Nail Glue and Acrylic Powder
For more significant cracks:
- Clean and lightly buff
- Apply glue into crack
- Sprinkle acrylic powder while wet
- Layer glue and powder up to 3 times
- File and buff when hardened
- Apply top coat
Repair Method 3: Builder Gel
For splits or partially detached acrylics:
- Trim damaged sections
- Clean and lightly buff
- Apply thin layer of builder gel, cure
- Repeat for 2-3 layers
- Use nail form if rebuilding section
- Buff and apply top coat
When to See a Professional
Visit a professional for infection signs, deep cracks affecting natural nail, pain or bleeding, or repeated breaks. Trained technicians from our Certificate in Nail Tech use refined techniques safely.