Summer is when many people opt to reveal their feet with sandals or slippers, increasing the popularity of pedicures. Many people also choose to get their nails done along with their pedicures. However, manicures and pedicures are not permanent procedures. As nails grow, these treatments must be repeated, leading to various side effects.
Recurring treatments every month
After about three to four weeks of getting nail art, the gel nails would start peeling off, or new nails would grow significantly. This unsightly view often prompts individuals to get another nail art treatment. If this cycle continues, nails can become thin and weak. Fingernails grow about 0.14 inches (3.5 mm) per month, so the entire nail takes about six months to be replaced. Toenails, on the other hand, take about a year and a half. This means that once damaged, the nails take considerable time to recover.
Types of gel nails we get
There are two main types of gel nails. Hard gel, which has a similar component to glue, is a strong, long-lasting adhesive. It is removed by filing or drilling. This process can cause nail damage, requiring a significant amount of time for a full recovery. Soft gel was created to overcome the shortcomings of hard gel. It is easy to apply due to its elasticity but lacks adhesive strength.
What happens if you continuously get nail art?
If you repeatedly get nail art, your nails can weaken, and you may develop onychoschizia or onycholysis. Onychoschizia causes the nails to become brittle and split, while onycholysis causes the nails to separate from the skin. If you have onychoschizia or onycholysis, your nails will split vertically, or the layers will separate.
Permanent deformation can happen
Gel nails, which last longer than regular nail polish, rob the nails of moisture and nutrients. The nail art process involves filing the nails, removing the cuticles, applying gel, and using chemicals to remove them later. This process can cause significant damage to the nails. In severe cases, the nails can break, leading to permanent deformation.
What about sticker-style nails?
Nowadays, many nail products come in sticker form, making them easier to apply. However, when removing the sticker, even the mildest adhesive can cause dermatitis or damage to the cuticles and nail plates. Therefore, it’s best to avoid keeping them on for an extended period.
Prone to bacterial infection
During nail art routine, removing the cuticle under the nail may seem clean, but removing this protective layer increases the risk of foreign substance penetration and bacterial infection. If exposed to improperly sterilized tools, you can contact paronychia. Fungi or bacteria can penetrate the weakened nails and spread throughout your body. Therefore, if you frequently get nail art therapy, it’s recommended to wash your hands and feet thoroughly and get the treatment in a clean place.
It’s important to take a break
While it’s best to avoid gel, if you choose to get them frequently, especially during a season like summer, it’s important to take breaks in between applications. After removing the gel, you should allow your nails to rest for at least one to two weeks before applying another set. This rest period is essential for your nails to recover and regain moisture.
Use nutritional supplements or moisturizers
Applying nutritional supplements or Vaseline before and after getting gel nails can help maintain moisture and nourishment. Using a strengthening product is beneficial if you notice damage or conditions like onycholysis, particularly after removing gel nails. Minimizing stress on your nails and taking supplements that contain keratin or biotin can also aid in recovery and improve nail health.
Don’t forcibly peel it off
After getting gel nails, if you don’t like the look of your nails growing out, don’t forcibly peel them off. This can damage your nails; in extreme cases, your nails could come off with the gel. It’s better to have a professional remove them. If you can’t go to a shop, use a gel-specific remover.
Seek medical help for severe inflammation or pain
Even with care, if symptoms don’t improve or if pain worsens due to inflammation, it’s best to seek medical help. Not only can the nails get inflamed, but they can also get infected with fungi or mold. Therefore, if you see an area with increasing bacteria, you may need antibiotics. Medication to reduce inflammation, topical medicines, or, in severe cases, injection therapy may be necessary.
Most Commented