A fresh manicure can boost our mood and confidence! With endless colors, designs, and styles, nails let us show off our creativity and experiment with fashion.
For many, acrylic or gel nails are top choices. But, while they look great, they can also harm our natural nails. Damaged nails after acrylics can leave us feeling self-conscious and searching for solutions.
If you want to heal damaged nails after acrylics, here are 11 post-acrylic nail care tips to help you return to strong, shiny, natural nails!
Tips For Nail Recovery After Acrylic or Gels
Moisturize Regularly
Getting into a routine of moisturizing can do wonders for damaged nails. Keep lotion by every sink to make it easy to remember. Using hand cream right after applying cuticle oil. Hand cream deeply conditions dry cracked cuticles with ingredients like raspberry stem cell extract, red algae, shea butter, sodium hyaluronate, and vitamins A, C, and E, all of which help heal and soothe.
You can use eos Shea Better Hand Cream or L’OCCITANE Shea Butter Hand Cream to nourish your cuticles.
Use Cuticle Cream or Oil
Applying cuticle oil, followed by hand cream, is a simple repair of damaged nails. Cuticle oils provide vitamins and nourishment; the cream helps lock in moisture. Moreover, this can help with moisture loss, common with gel nail damage.
Cuticle oil softens and hydrates. You can use a Cuticle Oil Pen or Cuccio Naturale Revitalizing-Hydrating Oil. Each drop has jojoba and coconut oils for moisture and vitamin E for protection. Spend a full minute massaging the oil into the cuticles. Use a small amount and avoid washing your hands for 20 minutes so it can absorb fully.
Soak Nails in Olive Oil
The best post-acrylic nail care treatment is soaking nails in olive oil for 10 to 15 minutes daily. This is especially helpful for dry skin and can make nails and skin smoother.
Your cuticle is a barrier to keep out bacteria and free radicals, which helps prevent infections. Therefore, keeping your cuticle moisturized is essential for healthy nail recovery.
Massage Your Fingertips
A hand massage can help restore nails, too. Apply hand cream each time you use cuticle oil. Filing your nails every three days also promotes blood flow, bringing in nutrients and improving circulation. It’s like getting regular hair trims to encourage growth.
Use Hyaluronic Acid
Cuticle oils work well, but they can be greasy. If oily fingerprints are a hassle, try hyaluronic acid. It hydrates dry cuticles and nail beds like it does for your skin. Plus, if you already use it on your face, you can just rub any leftover serum onto your nails for a quick hydration boost.
Try Nail Slugging
Nail slugging is like face slugging but for your hands! Apply a thick layer of an occlusive product (petroleum jelly works well) over cuticle oil to lock in moisture. The longer you leave it on, the more hydrated your nails and skin will feel.
Increase Your Biotin Intake
Biotin is a popular nutrient for healthy hair, skin, and nails. Aim for 30 micrograms daily, and a multivitamin might help, too. Moreover, Biotin can strengthen nails, but it takes time. Nails grow in about three months, so stick with it to see results.
Use a Keratin Treatment
Keratin treatments aren’t just for hair; they can also help your nails, especially after removing acrylics or gels. Keratin is a natural protein that strengthens skin, hair, and nails. A keratin treatment can prevent nails from peeling, splitting, or breaking. Use a nail strengthener, a protein-enriched base, and a topcoat to encourage healthy nail recovery.
Strengthen with Collagen and Camellia Extract
Along with keratin, it is suggested that products with ingredients like collagen and camellia extract be used to keep nails strong and healthy.
Change Your Polish Remover
Reducing chemical exposure is key for nail repair. If your nails are strong, you can use an acetone remover with treatment properties. Avoid plain acetone, as it can dry out nails. Instead, opt for a hydrating remover that won’t strip essential moisture or leave a chalky residue.
Wear Gloves
Our hands deal with a lot each day. Choose mild soaps, and wear gloves for tasks that can be rough on your skin and nails. Keeping hands and nails protected is essential to preserving nail health and prolonging your manicure. Always wear gloves for chores like dishwashing to protect your manicure’s shine and durability.
Final Words
Taking good care of your damaged nails can make a big difference. By following these simple post-acrylic nail care tips, like regular moisturizing, using cuticle oils, and even boosting your nails with biotin and keratin, you can keep them strong and healthy. Remember to be gentle with your hands, wear gloves for chores, and avoid harsh chemicals. With patience and care, your nails can bounce back stronger and healthier than ever.
FAQs
How Do You Fix Ruined Nails After Gel?
To fix damaged nails after gel, first remove the gel polish carefully without pulling or peeling it off. Then, apply a nourishing cuticle oil and a hydrating nail strengthener. Avoid using polish for a few weeks to let your nails recover naturally.
Can Gel Nails Be Repaired?
Yes, gel nails can be repaired if they are chipped or cracked. You can apply a small amount of gel or nail glue to the affected area, cure it under a UV light, and then buff and shape it as needed.
How Can I Heal Sore Nails After Removing Acrylics?
To heal sore nails, apply a nourishing cuticle oil or a nail-strengthening treatment daily. This will hydrate and strengthen weakened nails while promoting healing.
What Should I Put On My Nails After Removing Acrylics At Home?
After removing acrylics, use a gentle nail buffer to smooth the surface and apply a nail-hardening treatment or cuticle oil. This helps restore moisture and rebuild nail strength.
