Artificial nails are a new trend that is in vogue for those who want to make a fashion statement, give length and style to their nails or even hide short, brittle nails. These fake fingernails can improve the look of your hands and provide you with an opportunity to try something new and choose the shape, design and color of the nails. However, before going to the salon or buying a do-it-yourself kit, you should know the dangers and the kinds of artificial nails. Here is all you want to know about fake nails, how to make them stay on and how not to harm your natural nails.
Types of Fake Fingernails
There are various types of artificial nails that come in different designs and styles, and they are applied in different ways.
Acrylic Nails
The most popular and common type of artificial nails are the acrylic nails. They are produced from a liquid monomer and a powder polymer. When blended they create a thick paste that is then applied over the natural nails or glued on fake nail tips. The material turns into a solid and rigid surface that can be molded and decorated.
One of the reasons why acrylic nails are so popular is because they are very long-lasting. They are hard and suitable for those who have problems with the growth of their natural nails. Before the acrylics can be applied, your real nails have to be filed so that they have a rough surface for bonding. This can cause your natural nails to become brittle in the long run. Secondly, the chemicals used in the production of acrylics are known to cause allergic reactions to the users.
2. Gel Nails
Gel nails are said to be more natural and flexible than the acrylic nails. They are used in a manner similar to nail polish. They are painted on the nails and then exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Gel nails are not as prone to chipping and normally remain intact for a longer period of time as compared to acrylics. However, UV light exposure during the curing process is a bit of a concern since it can be damaging to the skin.
3. Silk Wraps
The silk wraps are worn mostly for the purpose of making the nails stronger especially if they are brittle and not for the purpose of making the nails longer. They are made from silk or fiberglass and are used on the nail surface to strengthen the nails or mend minor splits. They are not as strong as acrylic or gel nails but are better for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals.
Common Issues with Fake Fingernails
Although fake fingernails can make you have beautiful and neat looking nails within a short span of time, they also come with some issues. Here are some of the most common issues associated with fake nail tips:
1. Allergic Reactions
The products that are used in fixing or removing fake fingernails, especially acrylic nails, may lead to allergic reactions. Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction include redness, swelling, and irritation around the nail bed. If this happens, the artificial nails should be taken off and a doctor should be sought.
2. Nail Infections
There are some disadvantages of artificial nails, for instance, they can cause bacterial or fungal infections. For example, if an acrylic or gel nail is chipped or lifted from the natural nail, a space may be created between the two. This gap can become a breeding ground for germs, fungi and yeast to thrive in the mouth of the wearer. A bacterial infection can make your nails green while a fungal infection will make your nails thick and yellow. If you have any signs of infection, you should go to a doctor.
3. Weakened Natural Nails
The application and removal of fake fingernails can be quite damaging to the natural nails. For instance, to remove acrylic nails, one has to soak the nails in acetone for 10-20 minutes, which makes the nails brittle. The constant use of acetone and filing the nails during application causes the nails to become brittle, thin and easily breakable. Along with it, a woman may experience delay in her own nails to be grown well after removal of fake nails.
How to Avoid Harm from Fake Fingernails
If you love the look of fake nails, there are several ways you can protect your natural nails and reduce the risk of damage:
1. Take Breaks
This is especially important if your nails are subjected to chemicals on a regular basis. It is recommended that you remove fake nails every few months to give your natural nails a chance to grow and recover from the effects of nail enhancements.
2. Use Moisturizer
After washing your nails with acetone, it is advisable to apply a cream moisturizer on the nails and the cuticles to replenish the skin’s moisture. Healthy nails are not easily brittle or break and this is made possible by moisturizing the nails.
3. Take Care of Your Cuticles
Your cuticles are there to protect your nails from infections, so do not cut or push back your cuticles too hard. If your manicurist is not gentle with your cuticles, you can tell him or her to be gentle.
4. Select LED Lights for Gel Nails
If you choose gel nails, it is recommended to go to the salon where they use LED lamps to harden them. LED lights produce comparatively less amount of UV light than the UV lamps that you may use, thus minimizing your exposure to hazardous radiation. To be more careful, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on your hands before placing them under the light.
Conclusion
So if you are having this question in your mind: are fake nails bad for your health, then the short answer is yes, it damages your natural nails. And if you are really planning to put your artificial nails on, then try putting fake nails that don’t damage your real nails. Also make sure you remove them within a few days so that there won’t be any chances to hurt your natural nails. Fake nails though look good but you should not forget the possible drawbacks and should try to protect the natural nails from any harm. No matter whether you decide to go for acrylics, gels or some other type of fake nails, it is important to take proper care of your nails and maintain them in the right manner to ensure that they remain healthy in the long run.
