Acrylic nails have recently become a very popular fashion accessory among young women that come with new whacky designs, lengths, and colours. However, they also come without a ‘caution’ label that we really should be taking note of. Here are the do’s and don’t of acrylic nails…
DO ensure your natural nails are strong and healthy before applying acrylics. Acrylics can damage the nail bed, break them, and cause infections if they are not in good condition before applying. To achieve healthy natural nails, eat calcium rich foods.
DON’T expose acrylic nails to harsh chemicals as this can cause them to break and crumble. It can also damage your own nails.
DO wear rubber gloves while doing house chores such as using cleaning chemicals and washing up. It might be uncomfortable but these chemicals can cause the acrylics to break or fall off.
DON’T bite or cut acrylic nails as this can cause them to shatter which can actually damage your nail bed causing cuts and infection.
DO get your nails redone regularly (around every two weeks) as this will prevent damage and breakage.
DON’T use your acrylic nails to open canned drinks or anything that may cause them to shatter.
DO visit a professional nail salon to have your acrylic removed as it can be a difficult and painful process if done incorrectly which could cause damage to your natural nails and cause infection.
DON’T use regular or acetone nail polish remover on your acrylic nails as it can separate them from your natural nails. Use an acetone-free formula instead.
Written by Clo Gascoigne
