Acrylic nails have become a most-coveted decorative nail option amongst all nail lovers. Though they can give a glamorous and impeccable appearance, proper maintenance is key to increasing longevity and keeping your natural nails healthy. This article will walk you through how to maintain acrylic nails and Take Care of Acrylic Nails
Understanding Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powdered polymer. This creates a moldable product that can be formed over natural nails or used as tips. After drying, acrylic nails give a strong and lasting appearance that can be molded and designed according to the client’s desires.
Why Proper Care is Important
Proper care for acrylic nails is essential for several reasons:
Durability: A well-maintained set of acrylic nails can last much longer, allowing you to enjoy your nails for a more extended period before needing to fill or replace them.
Natural Nail Health: If you fail to take care of your own nails, they can be damaged in the long run, leading to peeling breakage or even fungal infection.
General Beauty: Polish nails look better when maintained and enhance your overall look
How to Take Care for Acrylic Nails
Here are a few things to keep in mind to take good care of your acrylic nails:
Regular Fills
As your natural nails grow, the distance between the acrylic and your cuticle will begin to appear more prominent. To keep them neat, book regular fills with your nail technician (about every 2-3 weeks). The application of additional acrylic on the regrowth area is how this is achieved.
Avoid Excessive Moisture
Acrylic nails are water-resistant, but prolonged moisture exposure can loosen the adhesive bond. To maintain acrylic nails, limit exposure to water (like washing dishes or swimming) for long periods. If you must get your nails wet , use rubber gloves to preserve them.
Keep Your Nails Clean
You should clean your nails regularly to maintain good hygiene. Use a mild soap and soft brush to scrub underneath your nails for dirt and debris. This will prevent any type of infection and keep your acrylic nails looking as good as new.
Moisturize Your Cuticles
Acrylic nails can occasionally dry out cuticles. To avoid this, make sure to hydrate your cuticles and the skin nearby by frequently applying cuticle oil or a moisturizing lotion. It keeps your cuticles from drying out and is suitable for nail health.
Avoid Using Nails as Tools
Using acrylic nails as tools is one of the most common mistakes, whether for opening packages, scraping surfaces, or anything else. That can cause chipping or breaking to your acrylics. Preserve your nails and use the right tools for these jobs.
Be Gentle During Activities
Be gentle when doing activities that strain your nails, like typing or using your phone. Don’t apply too much pressure to your acrylic nails; this may cause lifting or breakage.
Avoid Strong Chemicals
Another reason is the harsh chemicals that cleaners contain that can weaken the glue on acrylic nails. Even from damage when cleaning, always wear gloves.
Remove Acrylics Safely
However, if you want to eliminate them, you must do it correctly without hurting your nails. Get them removed at a professional nail salon, or follow these steps if you choose to do it at home:
- Lightly buff the surface of the acrylic nails to break the seal.
- Submerge your nails in acetone for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Gently push off the softened acrylic with a wooden cuticle stick.
- Follow with a dose of moisturizer on your nails and cuticles.
- Ways to Know You Should See a Nail Technician
Although taking good care of your acrylics can keep them looking good for longer, some signs mean you need to get them touched up by your nail technician:
Lifting: If your acrylic lifts away from your natural nail, moisture and bacteria can get trapped underneath, increasing the chance of infection.
Discoloration: If the acrylic is yellowing or discoloring in certain areas, it could be a sign that something is wrong, such as infection or exposure to harsh chemicals.
Severe Damage: If there’s extensive chipping, splitting, or breakage, consult a professional to evaluate the damage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When maintaining your acrylic nails, avoid these common mistakes that can help make them last longer and remain healthier:
Neglecting Fillings: Ongoing cavities that aren’t filled can lead to ugly spaces and potential breakage.
Neglecting Cuticle Care: Dry cuticles can result in more significant issues, including hangnails or infections.
Over-filing: If you over-file your nails, you can weaken them, which will cause cracks and breaks.
Not Wearing Sunscreen: UV rays may weaken your acrylic nails. Wear sunscreen on your hands in the sun to get the same look.
Conclusion
Proper care is essential to maintain your acrylic nails’ stunning beauty and preserve your natural nails. According to the tips in this article, you should be able to keep your acrylic nails pretty and healthy. Regular maintenance, good hygiene, and care with the removal will do wonders for keeping your gorgeous manicure in shape.
By learning the importance of acrylic nail care and following the above practices, you can have acrylic nails without sacrificing the health of your natural nails.
FAQs
Q: How many weeks between fills on my acrylic nails?
You should usually get fills every 2-3 weeks so that your nails look neat and your natural nails can grow.
Q: Can I use regular nail polish on acrylics?
Yes, you can use regular nail polish, but be careful about how you remove it. To avoid damaging your acrylic, you can use regular nail polish remover (non-acetone).
Q: How can I tell when my acrylic nails are lifting?
If you see lifting, seeing a nail technician is essential. They can evaluate the situation and take necessary measures to address it before it develops.
