Acrylic nails are one of the most popular nail extension treatments in the UK, allowing individuals to enhance the appearance of their natural nails. However, as much as we love the glamorous look of acrylics, it’s important to remember that proper removal is crucial for maintaining healthy nail beds.
This article delves into the intricacies of acrylic nail removal, emphasising the significance of seeking professional help to ensure optimal nail health and avoid potential pitfalls.
Why Are Acrylic Nails So Hard To Remove?
One of the features of Acrylic that makes it so popular is its staying power; however, great staying power means professional removal is always recommended.
Understanding how acrylic is bonded to the natural nail is crucial to comprehend the importance of having your acrylic nails removed by a professional. Let’s delve into the details:
A preparation process is undertaken to ensure a secure bond between the acrylic and the natural nail. This involves the nail technician gently buffing the surface of the natural nail, creating a slightly rough texture. This roughness allows the acrylic to adhere better to the nail, promoting a longer-lasting result. Many salons will also apply a primer or bonding agent to the nail plate to further aid adhesion.
This preparation process means the bond between the acrylic and the natural nail is quite strong, and attempting to remove the acrylic at home without professional help can lead to serious damage.
When acrylic nails are removed, it is essential to break the bond between the acrylic and the roughed surface of the natural nail gently. This is typically done by soaking the nails in a specially formulated acrylic dissolving solution. The solution helps to weaken the bond, allowing the acrylic to be safely and efficiently lifted away from the natural nail without damaging it.
The Importance of Professional Acrylic Nail Removal
To protect your nail health and ensure a seamless transition from acrylics to beautiful natural nails, seeking professional help for acrylic nail removal is essential. Both salons and independent nail technicians have expert knowledge, experience, and equipment to remove acrylics safely without damaging the underlying nail. Let’s look at why professional removal is highly recommended.
Safe and Efficient Techniques: Trained professionals employ techniques that minimize damage to the natural nail while ensuring complete removal. They have access to specialised tools and products specifically designed for this purpose.
Maintaining Nail Health: Professionals prioritise nail health and take steps to nourish and strengthen the natural nails after acrylic removal. This can include treatments to restore moisture and prevent brittleness.
Preventing Infections: Salons adhere to strict hygiene standards, reducing the risk of infection during removal. Proper sanitisation of tools and equipment ensures a clean and safe environment.
Post-Removal Care: Professional nail technicians can provide personalised advice on post-removal care, such as nail strengthening products and maintenance routines to promote healthy, natural nails.
The Hazards of Home Acrylic Nail Removal
While it may be tempting to save a little money and remove acrylic nails at home, there are significant risks associated with this approach. Here are some problems that can arise from attempting DIY acrylic nail removal.
Damage to Nail Bed: Improper removal techniques can lead to damage, thinning, and weakening of the natural nail bed. This can result in pain, sensitivity, and even infection.
Incomplete Removal: Without professional knowledge and specialised tools, removing all acrylic traces can be challenging, leaving behind residue that weakens the natural nail and increases the risk of bacterial or fungal infections.
Pain and Discomfort: Home removal methods often involve forceful scraping or pulling, which can cause pain, discomfort, and even bleeding.
Nail Irregularities: Amateur removal attempts may lead to irregularities such as grooves, bumps, or dents on the surface of the natural nail. This can affect the overall appearance and take time to heal.
Improper Removal Methods to Avoid at All Costs
While the desire to remove acrylic nails at home is understandable, it’s crucial to steer clear of certain methods that can cause severe damage to your natural nails. These DIY techniques, often seen online or shared anecdotally, can lead to pain, infection, and long-term nail health issues.
Methods to Avoid:
- Using Dental Floss: While seemingly harmless, using dental floss to pry off acrylic nails can exert excessive force, leading to nail bed separation and potential bleeding.
- Prying with Metal Tools: Attempting to lift acrylic nails with metal tools like cuticle pushers or screwdrivers can easily scratch and gouge the natural nail plate, weakening it and leaving it susceptible to infection.
- Using Nail Tips: Forcing new nail tips under existing acrylics to pop them off is another dangerous method. It can cause significant trauma to the natural nail and increase the risk of breakage.
If you encounter a salon that uses these methods, I recommend you find a different establishment. Prioritize your nail health and seek professionals who use proven, safe, and gentle techniques.
How Acrylic Nails Are Removed At The Salon
In a professional setting, removing acrylic nails involves a careful and systematic process to maintain the health and integrity of the natural nails. Here’s a brief overview of how acrylic is typically removed at salons:
- Assessment: A nail technician will start by assessing the condition of your acrylic nails and the health of your natural nails. They will take note of any lifting, damage, or signs of infection.
- Preparation: The technician will then prepare your nails for the removal process. This may involve gently filing down the top layer of the acrylic to help the removal solution penetrate more effectively.
- Soaking: Your nails will be soaked in an acetone-based solution that dissolves the acrylic. The technician may use a bowl or individual finger wraps to facilitate the soaking process. The duration of soaking can vary depending on factors such as the acrylic’s thickness and the nails’ condition.
- Gentle Removal: The technician will carefully remove the softened acrylic from the nails after soaking using specialized tools like a cuticle pusher or an orange wood stick. They will gently push or scrape away the loosened acrylic, ensuring minimal pressure or force is applied to the natural nails.
- Buffing and Shaping: Once the acrylic has been completely removed, the technician will gently buff the surface of the natural nails to smooth out any roughness or residue. They will also shape and trim the nails according to your preferences.
- Hydration and Nail Care: To promote nail health and hydration, the technician may apply cuticle oil or similar moisturising treatment to the nails and surrounding skin. This helps restore moisture and nourishment to the natural nails, which can be temporarily depleted after acrylic removal.
By following these professional steps, the acrylic is safely and effectively removed without causing damage to your natural nails. The experience and expertise of a qualified nail professional ensure that the process is carried out with precision and care, prioritising the health and well-being of your nails.
By booking a nail appointment with Beckie or a trusted salon, you can ensure safe and efficient acrylic removal, protecting the health and beauty of your natural nails.
Remember, your nails deserve the best care, and seeking professional assistance is a wise investment in their long-term health. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me for expert acrylic nail removal that will leave your natural nails looking and feeling their best.
Message me on WhatsApp or visit my booking page to secure your appointment today and embark on your journey towards healthier, more beautiful nails.
Note: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
