If you’ve ever had gel polish on your nails, then you know that it can be a little rough to remove. But did you know that the chemicals in gel polish may cause weak or brittle nails?
This article will outline all of the causes of Weak Nails After Gel Polish and the preventions for this problem.
What Causes Weak Nails After Gel Polish?
There are a few things that can cause weak nails after gel polish. One of the most common reasons is that the nails are not given enough time to dry properly.
If the nails are not completely dry, they can become brittle and weak. Another reason can be due to the removal process. If the gel polish is not removed properly, it can start to lift and peel from the natural nail. When this happens, the natural nail is left exposed.
The best way to extend the life of your gel polish enhancements is by using a top coat between applications. This also helps in preventing chipping and peeling.
Gel polish can cause nails to be weak if it is not taken off properly. Without the gel polish, the nail will be susceptible to chips and peeling. If you are someone who likes to use gel polish frequently, you should use a top coat every time between applications.
Your natural nails become stiffer with every application of gel polish. So, if you are not a fan of having long nails, then using gel polish is not for you. It is best to get your nails done by a professional who can take it off properly and give you a shorter length that still looks natural.
Gel Polish Chemicals
The harsh chemicals in gel polish are the number one cause of weak nails. Acetone, which is used to remove gel polish, is especially damaging. It can strip away your natural nail oils and make your nails more prone to breaking or splitting.
Other chemicals in gel polish, such as formaldehyde and toluene, can also be harmful to your nails.
How Long Does it Take?
It can take several months for weak or brittle nails to return after gel polish has been removed. This is because the chemicals need time to leave your body and let your natural oils come back, which will strengthen you nails again.
Prevention Tips
Here are some natural prevention tips you must know, so your nails won’t be weak.
Keep Filing!
File any gel polish off immediately after your service, while it is still wet. This will slow the drying process and reduce the chance of damaging your nails during removal.
Watch Your Diet!
Your diet plays a huge role in healthy nail growth. Make sure you are getting enough vitamins B12, C, D, E & K which all help with nail growth. Omega- fatty acids are also beneficial, so try to include some fish or nuts in your diet.
Stay Hydrated!
Drinking plenty of water is essential for healthy nails and skin. Try to drink at least eight glasses per day.
Use a Cuticle Oil!
After every service, make sure to apply cuticle oil to your nails. This will prevent dryness and brittleness, while adding a little shine too!
Proper Gel Polish Removal to Protect Your Nails
One of the great things about gel polish is that it lasts for weeks without chipping or losing its shine. However, removing gel polish can be a challenge, and if not done properly, it can damage your nails. Here are some tips for proper gel polish removal:
1. Soak your nails in pure acetone for 10 minutes to remove the shine.
2. Use a metal file to gently file off any gel polish that remains on your nails or skin around your nails. Always avoid filing toward or into your nail bed, because this can damage your nails . Filing only in one direction also prevents unnecessary damage to nails .
3. Buff away any remaining residue with a buffing block.
4. Apply a cuticle oil to your nails and massage into the skin around your nails to help keep your nails healthy and hydrated.
Following these tips will help you remove your gel polish properly, without damaging your nails.
Why Over-buffing Your Nails is Bad
Overexposure to acetone can cause white spots, which are small areas of discoloration. These may have a pink or gray hue and will usually go away within six months. If you’re unsure if your nails are safe after gel polish use, take them to your manicurist for an evaluation!
What Happens if Your Nails Weaken After Removing Gel Polish?
If your nails have weakened after removing gel polish, there are a few things you can do to help them recover.
- First, make sure to give your nails plenty of time to rest and heal.
- You may also want to consider using a nail strengthener or cuticle oil to help promote healing.
- Finally, avoid using harsh chemicals on your nails. For example, nail polish remover is very drying to nails and can cause them to weaken.
During the removal process, you may also notice some lifting around your cuticles. This is normal. A little bit of lifting isn’t an issue as long as it doesn’t extend past the free edge (the area where your natural nail meets your polish). If the lifting does extend past your free edge, you can clip it off using a cuticle clipper.
If you’re having trouble getting your gel polish off, it’s best to consult with a professional. They will be able to remove it quickly and safely without damaging your nails.
Removing gel polish can be a bit of an art. If done incorrectly, it can result in very damaged nails. The good news is that you now know the proper way to remove your gel polish and avoid damage.
How to Care for Your Weak Nails After Gel Polish
If you have weak nails after gel polish, there are a few things you can do to help them recover faster.
1. Cut your nails short – This will help minimize damage to the nail plate, which is what grows underneath the gel polish. If you have long nails, try trimming them back as far as they can go without feeling uncomfortable or unnatural for you.
2. Keep them moisturized – Natural oils are better than regular lotion if you can find them. Coconut oil is a great option, but it can be greasy if you have too much of it on your hands from eating chips during your binge-watching sessions! If this happens just wash your hands and try to do a foot massage while watching TV. It’s a win-win!
3. Don’t pick at them – I know, it’s so tempting to pick at the gel polish when it feels like your nails are dry or brittle. You may even think you have a hang nail or something else on your fingers that needs to be removed! Just don’t do it. Your gel polish will just wreck your nail plate if you try too hard to remove things from underneath it.
4. File them gently – If your nails are feeling rough, you can file them down lightly with a gentle file to help them feel smooth again.
5. Take a break – If you’ve been rocking gel polish for a while and your nails are starting to look and feel weak, it might be time for a break. You can still rock the gel polish, but you should try wearing regular nail polish for a few weeks to give your nails some time off.
If you do all of these things, your nails will be stronger than ever before in no time! If you have weak nails after gel polish and follow these steps, there is no need to worry! You should see improvements in a matter of days, and your nails should be as strong as ever before in no time! This is just a temporary setback that you can easily overcome.
