Holiday Acrylics: How to Protect Your Nails From Damage and Promote Healthy Regrowth
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Teh holiday season, with its flurry of activity from cooking to gift-wrapping, often sees a surge in acrylic manicure popularity. Though, the festive beauty of these enhancements can quickly fade, leaving nails damaged and weak. The allure of acrylic nails is undeniable, but understanding their potential impact on natural nails is crucial.According to a leading nail artist, “Acrylics always have the chance to damage the nail, especially if the application isn’t correct.” The thickness of the acrylic and its placement can create weak points,leading to breakage. Maintaining nail health both during and after acrylic use is achievable with the right approach.
The Potential Harm of Acrylic Nails
Acrylics are applied to a buffed nail surface using a combination of powder and liquid monomer, then shaped and air-dried. While durable, the application process itself can be problematic. “Over-buffing the natural nail can affect your nail health when the acrylic is removed,” the nail artist explains.
Even compared to alternatives like gel-X and press-ons, acrylics require caution. Individuals who are “hard on their nails or use your nails as tools” are at a higher risk of causing damage to their natural nail bed.
Removing acrylics involves both drilling and soaking, but the process presents risks beyond simple thinning.A meaningful concern lies in the chemicals released during removal. “If you file a lot before soaking, wear a mask as the particles are perilous for your body,” one expert advises.
The presence of methyl methacrylate (MMA), a toxic ingredient banned in the United states, is another potential hazard. MMA is notoriously difficult to remove, exhibiting a “slimy, jelly consistency.” Consumers should ensure their salon does not utilize this harmful substance.
Do You Need to “cycle” Your Nails?
The practice of “nail cycling”-taking breaks between acrylic sets-is frequently enough recommended to allow natural nails to recover.However, this isn’t necessarily a strict requirement. “I have tons of clients who never take a break with their nails and come back every two weeks consistently,” the nail artist notes. “Their nails are healthy because they maintain their nails by coming back before they break.”
Regular follow-up appointments are key. “if you get acrylics, make sure to book follow up appointments because once your nails start growing they have more of a risk of breaking and damaging your nails.”
Rebuilding Nail Strength After Acrylic Removal
Following acrylic removal, nails often feel thinner and weaker. A consistent regimen of builder gel manicures-a light layer of hard gel-can provide protection and promote regrowth. “I stand by the fact that I’ve seen people’s natural nails grow to the lengths they wouldn’t if they had acrylics on just by coming in consistently for builder gel manicures,” the nail artist states.
for those seeking to avoid any artificial enhancements,supplements and nail strengtheners,combined with gentle handling,can also support nail recovery.
A Healthier Alternative: Gel-X Tips
Aprés Gel-X tips are emerging as a promising alternative to traditional acrylics. Described as the first soft gel nail extension system, these tips are lightweight, ultra-thin, and durable, aligning with the growing “no-nicure” trend.
“They don’t have the chemical smell that affects our bodies, they don’t break the same way so your nail is a little safer, they’re faster, which both me and my clients love, and they stay on the same amount of time,” the nail artist shares. “They’re the new hot thing and I like them a lot so far.”
Ultimately, informed choices and diligent aftercare are essential for maintaining healthy, beautiful nails, even amidst the festive allure of holiday acrylics.
