Are Acrylic Nails Really That Bad for You?

Acrylic nails are undeniably popular, offering a polished, glamorous aesthetic. But while they’re great for upping your style game, they can take a toll on your natural nails. From potential damage during application to risks like allergic reactions and brittleness, here’s what you need to know about the impact of acrylic nails and how to keep your nails as healthy as possible if you can’t resist this beauty trend.

How Acrylic Nails Affect Your Nails and Skin

1. They Thin Your Nails During Application

To adhere acrylic nails, the surface of your natural nails must be filed down, which creates mechanical damage and thins the nail plate. According to Christina Chung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, this process compromises your nail’s strength and durability, leaving it prone to brittleness and breakage.

2. Risk of Allergic Reactions

The liquid and powder mixture used in acrylic nails can trigger allergic contact dermatitis, leading to redness, itchiness, or even flaky skin. Reactions can occur immediately or days later, not just on your hands but also on other areas like the face or neck.

Pro Tip: If you experience itching or burning after application, seek professional removal and consult a dermatologist to avoid further irritation.

3. Picking and Peeling Can Cause Severe Damage

Many people develop the habit of picking at their acrylics, which can rip off parts of the nail plate along with the acrylic, weakening your natural nails. Studies, like a May 2022 case report in Cureus, have shown the long-term harm that habitual acrylic picking can cause, including thinning and deformation of the nails.

4. Frequent Touch-Ups Can Worsen Trauma

Maintaining acrylic nails requires touch-ups every two to three weeks, during which the base is filled, and the tips are reshaped. This process introduces additional mechanical stress to the nails, exacerbating brittleness.

5. Risk of Nail Bed Separation

Acrylics are strong and rigid, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. If they’re hit or snagged, the strength of the bond can cause your natural nail to separate from the nail bed a painful condition known as onycholysis. Additionally, acrylics can disrupt your nails’ hydration balance, further increasing the risk of nail bed separation.

How to Keep Your Nails Healthy With Acrylics

Acrylic nails aren’t inherently bad if you take steps to minimize damage and allow your natural nails time to recover.

1. Always Get Them Removed Professionally

DIY removal methods like peeling or prying off acrylics can cause severe damage. Instead, visit a nail tech to have them soaked off in acetone and carefully filed away.

2. Take Breaks Between Sets

Avoid back-to-back acrylic applications. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, your nails need time to recover and "breathe." Reserving acrylics for special occasions ensures healthier, stronger nails in the long term.

3. Prioritize Nail and Hand Care

• Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water and moisturize your hands and nails regularly with creams or oils.

• Protect Your Nails: Wear gloves while doing chores to shield your nails from chemicals and moisture.

• Be Gentle with Cuticles: Avoid trimming or pushing them excessively to reduce the risk of infection.

The Bottom Line

Acrylic nails can be a stunning accessory, but their impact on nail health shouldn’t be overlooked. Frequent wear can lead to thinning, brittleness, and even separation from the nail bed.

To strike a balance, reserve acrylics for special occasions and maintain a healthy nail care routine. With the right precautions, you can enjoy beautiful nails without sacrificing their long-term health.

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