5 Expert Tips for Safe Artificial Nails: Avoid Nail Damage

If you get artificial nails then keep these 5 things in mind, otherwise it will cause harm

Artificial nails can help in making your nails look beautiful, but excessive use of it can damage the nails, which increases the risk of spreading infection.

Things To Keep in Mind While Applying Artificial Nails: To make their hair and skin more beautiful, people adopt various skin and hair care tips. Not only this, they also go to the parlor and get various treatments.
Similarly, many women get nail extensions to enhance the beauty of their nails. Some women get artificial nails done only on special occasions, but there are many women who use artificial nails regularly.
But, these artificial nails can damage your natural nails, and the risk of infection can also increase. In such a situation, let’s know from Pooja Goyal, beauty expert of Beautiful Makeover, how to protect nails from getting damaged by artificial nails? (How to wear fake nails without damaging your nails)

Artificial Nails Tips For Reducing Nail Damage

According to a report by the American Academy of Dermatology Association, artificial nails can make your nails thin, brittle and dry. Still, some people like artificial nails. In such a situation, you need to take special care of some things.

1. Avoid acrylic nails

When it comes to artificial nails, many of us are unaware of certain risks. Acrylic nails can weaken natural nails, making them brittle and prone to damage, which may also increase the risk of infection. So instead of acrylic nails, you can use soak-off gel nails.

2. Use soak-off gel nails

Gel nails may still cause some damage, but they are generally considered safer and better than acrylic nails. Soak-off gel nails reduce the chances of your nails breaking. Therefore, gel nails are a better option for those who want to cause less damage to their nails.

3. Use LED curing lights

Gel nails require UV light to harden, but UV lights can damage your nails or cause infection on the cuticles. Therefore, you can use LED curing lights in the salon to harden gel nails instead of UV lights, as they cause less damage to your nails.

4. Avoid trimming cuticles

Keeping cuticles healthy is important in nail care. Cuticles protect the nails and surrounding skin, acting as a natural barrier against infection. In such a situation, when cuticles are trimmed or cut for nail extension, bacteria can enter your cuticles and cause infection. So, it’s best to avoid trimming your cuticles when getting nail extensions to prevent infection and damage.

5. Get nail extensions occasionally

Artificial nails enhance the natural beauty of your nails, giving them a stylish and polished look. But avoid using it regularly, as it can also damage your nails. Therefore, if you like to get nail extensions, then you can choose to get nail extensions occasionally on a special occasion.

Artificial nails can help make your nails look more attractive, but regular use can damage your nails. But, if you want to get nail extensions, then you can opt for soak-off jaw nails instead of acrylic nails. Also, always take care of the condition of your nails and get nail extensions done from a good salon only.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Artificial Nails and Nail Extensions

1. Are artificial nails safe to use regularly?

Artificial nails are safe when used occasionally, such as for weddings, parties, or special events. However, frequent use can weaken natural nails, making them thin, brittle, and prone to infections. To minimize damage, give your natural nails time to rest between applications.

2. What are the risks of using artificial nails?

Artificial nails can cause:

• Thinning of natural nails due to repeated filing and buffing.
• Brittleness and dryness of the nails.
• Higher risk of infections if proper hygiene is not maintained.
• Cuticle damage, allowing bacteria to enter and cause irritation or swelling.

3. Which is better: acrylic nails or gel nails?

• Acrylic nails: Strong but can cause more damage to natural nails and increase infection risk.
• Soak-off gel nails: A safer option, as they are less damaging, easier to remove, and more flexible, reducing the chances of breakage.

Tip: If you must choose, go for soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails.

4. How do soak-off gel nails reduce nail damage?

Soak-off gel nails are softer and easier to remove than acrylic nails. They don’t require as much filing, which helps:

• Reduce thinning of natural nails.
• Lower the risk of nail splitting and breaking.
• Maintain nail strength while still looking stylish.

5. Why are LED curing lights better than UV lights for gel nails?

UV lights are commonly used to harden gel nails, but prolonged UV exposure can damage skin and weaken nails. LED curing lights are a safer alternative because they:

• Harden gel nails faster.
• Emit less harmful radiation.
• Reduce the risk of skin irritation or cuticle infection.

6. Why should you avoid trimming cuticles during nail extensions?

Cuticles act as a natural barrier that protects the nails and surrounding skin from bacteria.
When you trim or cut cuticles, you create openings that allow bacteria and dirt to enter, which can lead to:

• Infections
• Swelling or redness around the nails
• Painful cuticle damage

Instead of trimming, gently push back cuticles after softening them with warm water.

7. How often should you get artificial nails or nail extensions?

To prevent damage, get nail extensions occasionally, such as for special occasions.

• Avoid wearing artificial nails continuously.
• Give your natural nails at least two weeks of rest between applications.
• During the break, moisturize and strengthen your natural nails.

8. How can you protect your natural nails when using fake nails?

Here are a few tips to keep your nails healthy:

1. Choose soak-off gel nails over acrylic nails.
2. Use LED lights instead of UV lights in the salon.
3. Avoid trimming cuticles — push them back gently instead.
4. Always wash and sanitize hands before and after nail application.
5. Take breaks between extensions to let your natural nails recover.

9. Can artificial nails cause infections?

Yes, improper application or removal of artificial nails can cause infections.
Common causes include:

• Trimming cuticles too deeply.
• Dirt and bacteria trapped under the fake nails.
• Using unclean tools at the salon.

Tip: Always visit a reputable salon and ensure all tools are sterilized before use.

10. How can I tell if my nails are damaged from artificial nails?

Signs of nail damage include:

• Thin or weak nails that break easily.
• Dryness or peeling of the nail surface.
• Pain, redness, or swelling around the cuticles.
• White spots or discoloration under the nails.

If you notice these symptoms, stop using artificial nails and allow your natural nails to heal.

11. How do I care for my nails after removing artificial nails?

After removing fake nails, follow these steps to restore nail health:

1. Soak nails in warm water to soften them.
2. Gently file and trim them evenly.
3. Apply cuticle oil to keep them moisturized.
4. Use a strengthening nail serum or cream.
5. Avoid applying artificial nails again for at least two weeks.

12. Can I apply artificial nails at home safely?

Yes, but you need to be careful:

• Sanitize your tools before use.
• Avoid trimming cuticles or cutting too deep.
• Follow step-by-step instructions carefully.
• Remove nails safely without pulling or forcing them off.

If you are unsure, it’s best to get artificial nails applied by a professional nail technician.

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