Acrylic nails are very common for people who want long nails, but can’t seem to grow them.  Acrylic nails themselves will not harm your natural nails.  However, the misuse and misapplication of acrylic nails can.  This is why many people are concerned that acrylic nails are harmful to natural nails.  Learning how to use acrylic nails will help you avoid damaging your real nails.

Acrylic Nails - Tips for Preventing Infection

• Be sure there is not a gap between the natural nails and the acrylic nails.  If there is a gap, discoloration can occur.  Also, your nails could become rough and harsh because of coarsening.
• Avoid gaps by not bumping the acrylic nails.  Even the slightest bump can separate the acyclic nail from the natural nail.  If this happens, a warm and moist environment can occur promoting the growth of fungi and bacteria.  This can lead to infection.
• Do not wear acrylic nails for extended periods of time.  This can suffocate your natural nail.  Your natural nail needs to be able to breathe freely to prevent moisture, which can lead to infection.
• Choose a reputable salon to apply your acrylic nails.  If you choose a non-reputable salon, their tools may not be sanitized, which can cause nail fungus.  If you apply yourself, be sure all the tools are clean.

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Caring for Acrylic Nails

Caring for artificial acrylic nails is not difficult.  However, it is important that you do take the necessary steps to prevent infection and allow your acrylic nails to last longer.

• Keep your acrylic nails dry.  Water can cause lifting, which can lead to bacteria and fungi.  Drying your hands thoroughly will help keep your nails dry. This will help to prevent water from seeping under the acrylic.
• Use antibacterial soap.  The number one culprit for nail damage with acrylic nails is bacteria.
• Wear rubber gloves when doing chores.  They will protect your hands and nails from snags, chips, or splitting, which could be painful.
• Swab your nails each day with alcohol before you go to bed.  Swab under and around the nails to help cleanse your nail to eliminate dirt or bacteria.
• Chips and splits can allow an entrance for fungi; therefore, it is important to have any damages to your acrylic nails tended to immediately.  A nail salon can generally take care of these types of problems.

Removing Acrylic Nails

• Gather all your supplies, which include:  acetone polish remover, petroleum jelly, nail buffer, nail clippers, and a glass bowl.
• Cut the acrylic nails down with a pair of nail clippers.
• Fill a glass bowl with acetone nail polish remover for soaking your nails to dissolve the nail glue.
• Before putting your hands in the bowl, apply a coating of petroleum jelly on the surrounding skin of the nail to help prevent your skin from drying out while soaking.  It is important that you do not touch the nail with petroleum jelly, as this can block the polish remover from loosening the glue.
• Soak your fingers for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Remove your hands and gently peel the acrylic nails off.  If they do not come off easily, soak your nails a little longer.  Do not ever force the nail off.
• Once all the acrylic nails have been removed, wash your hands.  If any glue remains on your nails, just buff off with a nail buffer gently.
• Apply a moisturizing hand cream.

Taking care of your acrylic nails is the key to beautiful and healthy nails.

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