Things You Should Know About Acrylic Toes

When it comes to nail enhancements, most people immediately think of fingers—but lately, acrylic on toes is becoming more popular. From social media trends like the “toe BBL” to vacation-ready pedicures, it might look like a good idea—but there’s more you need to know.

If you’ve ever Googled:

• Are acrylic toe nails safe?
• How long do acrylic toes last?
• Can you get acrylic on all toes?
• How do you remove acrylic from toenails?
• Or do acrylic toes damage natural nails?

…then this post is for you.

Let’s break down what you really need to know about acrylic toes—and why there might be a better, healthier alternative.

So… Are Acrylic Toe Nails Safe?

Here’s the honest truth: I don’t recommend acrylic on toes at all.

While it might be tempting for clients who want a long-lasting, polished pedicure, the structure and biology of toenails make acrylic a risky option.

Here’s why:

1. Acrylic is porous. And when you apply a porous product over a toenail that might already be dealing with hidden fungus, trauma, or pressure? You’re creating the perfect breeding ground for infection. Fungus thrives in dark, moist environments. Acrylic seals in that moisture—especially if the client wears closed-toe shoes, sweats, or walks long hours. That can quickly turn a cosmetic enhancement into a real health issue.

2. Acrylic is too rigid. If your client hits or stubs their toe with a very rigid product adhered to the nail plate it increases the likelihood that that toenail could lift up, come off, or damage could be done to the nail matrix.

How Long Do Acrylic Toes Last?

Technically, acrylic toes can last 3–4 weeks—but that doesn’t mean they should. Because of the slower growth rate of toenails and the risk of lifting or trapping moisture, acrylic often stays on longer than is healthy. And since toes aren’t typically monitored as closely as fingernails, problems can go unnoticed until it’s too late.

Can You Get Acrylic on All Toes?

You can—but you probably shouldn’t. Some salons will only apply acrylic to the big toe to create a uniform look. But applying acrylic to every toe increases pressure and friction in tight shoes, which can lead to damage, lifting, or even loss of the natural nail in severe cases.

How to Remove Acrylic Toe Nails

Removing acrylic from toenails requires care and patience. Never rip, peel, or clip it off.

Here’s how to safely remove acrylic toes:

1. File down the surface to break the seal.
2. Soak in pure acetone using a cotton + foil wrap method.
3. Gently file off softened acrylic, repeating soak as needed.
4. Avoid aggressive filing or metal tools near the nail plate.

That said—removal isn’t the real problem. It’s what happens during wear that causes most of the issues.

A Better Alternative for Toe Health

If your client wants structure or correction on their toenails—especially if they’re dealing with issues like curling, pain, or thickened nails—acrylic isn’t the answer.

But we do have a solution: Enter Onyfix—a revolutionary nail correction system for ingrown and involuted nails.

Unlike acrylic, Onyfix is non-invasive, non-porous, and totally pain-free. It helps gently retrain the shape of the nail as it grows out, without filing or pressure.

Onyfix is:

• Safe for diabetics
• Suitable for kids and sensitive clients
• Completely closed system (no openings = no fungus risk)
• Compatible with polish and pedicures
• Designed to relieve discomfort without compromising nail health

Whether your client is looking for a more comfortable pedicure or real correction for problematic toenails, Onyfix is the smarter, safer alternative.

🛒 Improve toenail health with Onyfix → Shop the System

Final Thoughts

Acrylic on toes might look trendy, but it comes with real risks—especially if you’re not trained to recognize early signs of infection or trauma.

For long-term health, safety, and better results, opt for high-quality gel or professional correction systems like Onyfix. 

Your clients’ feet will thank you.