Monomer (acrylic liquid) is mixed with acrylic powder to make the bead that hardens into an acrylic nail. M1 Nail & Beauty Supply stocks salon monomers from CND, Young Nails, Notpolish, ONME, IBD, LaPalm and BeBeauty, from 4 oz bottles to 1-gallon jugs.
Types of monomer
| Type | Best for | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Brand system liquid | Using the liquid that a powder brand formulates its powders for. | CND Retention+ 8 oz, CND Retention+ 32 oz, Young Nails Liquid 6 oz, Notpolish EMA 8 oz, IBD Grip Monomer |
| Low-odour liquid | Salons and clients sensitive to the acrylic smell. | Young Nails Extreme Low Odor, CND Odorless Sculpting Liquid |
| Value bottles | Everyday salon liquid at a lower price per ounce. | ONME Monomer 8 oz, ONME EMA Monomer 8 oz, BeBeauty 401 Shiny Primerless |
| Gallons | High-volume acrylic salons. | CND Retention+ 1 gal, Young Nails 32 oz, Notpolish EMA 32 oz, LaPalm 4 Season Mango 1 gal |
How to choose a monomer
- Match the powder. Set time, clarity and strength are tuned for a liquid-and-powder pair; start with the liquid made by your powder brand.
- Read the label. Most professional salon liquids are EMA (ethyl methacrylate) based; the ingredient list or safety data sheet (SDS) names the monomer, so check it before you buy.
- Buy the size you use in a few months. Keep liquid capped in a dappen dish with a lid, away from heat and light.
Related: Acrylic powder, Acrylic brushes, Nail prep: primer, bonder, Nail forms, All acrylic & dip
Guides
Monomer FAQ
Can I use one brand of monomer with another brand of acrylic powder?
It often works, but the set time, bead consistency and clarity can change. Brands design their powders around their own liquid, so if acrylic lifts, cracks or yellows, try the matching liquid first.
What does EMA mean on a monomer label?
EMA is ethyl methacrylate, the monomer most professional salon acrylic liquids are based on. The label, ingredient list or safety data sheet (SDS) tells you which monomer a liquid contains.
Why is my acrylic bead too wet or too dry?
The ratio of liquid to powder sets the bead. A wet bead takes longer to set and can lift; a dry bead looks grainy and does not bond well. Wipe excess liquid off the brush on the dappen dish before picking up powder.
Order online for in-store pickup at our Markham, Ontario store, usually ready in 2 to 4 hours, or have your order shipped anywhere in Canada.