This is the surprising amount of time you should wait between gel manicure appointments
Gel nails are the ultimate go-to for a flawless, long-lasting manicure. But if you’ve been rocking them non-stop, your nails might be sending out a little SOS. So, how do you know when it's time to give them a break? And given that nails aren't considered 'alive' because the visible part of the nail is made up of dead cells; do you really need to let them breathe in between salon appointments?
Giorgia Capella, Head of Education & Spa for The Gel Bottle tells WH how long you need to leave in-between gel appointments and whether nails really need a break from gels.
Is it bad to leave gel nail polish on for a long time?
'Nails do not naturally need a "break" from product application as nails are not made up of living cells,' says Capella.
'Your nails get oxygen and nutrients from your blood supply rather than the air around them.' Therefore, adds Capella, 'with consistent appointments and correct product application, the health of the natural nails should never be affected.'
However, there's a but coming. 'In cases where the natural nail has been damaged from incorrect processes or application, it is advised to allow damage to grow out before continued application of product and improve the health of the nail.'
How long to give your nails a break after gel manicure damage
'In cases where the natural nail has been damaged by over filing or incorrect preparation and application, a technician may advise to allow the nail health to recover before a new appointment. This will depend on the health of the nail and the specific damage caused,' advises Capella.
'If you feel your nails have been damaged, we recommend a consultation with a professional on an advised treatment plan,' she adds.
The length of the break will depend on where the damage is on the nail. On average, nails grow about one tenth of an inch (2.5 millimeters) each month. At that rate it can take about 3 to 6 months to completely replace a nail. If the damage is near the top of the nail then you're talking weeks not months.
How to tell if your nails are damaged from gels
As Capella explains, incorrect application as well as poor removal techniques is what tends to can cause damage, rather than the ingredients in the polish themselves. Signs to look out for include.
The appearance of keratin granulation (rough, white patches on the surface of the nail)
Peeling
Ridges
Splits
Discolouration
Dehydrated cuticles
How to you tell if you’re allergic to gel polish
'Allergies can present themselves in various ways, but typically clients may notice red, swollen, and itchy skin around the nail. In this case we recommend consulting the technician as soon as possible and having product removed. While an allergy can only be confirmed through an allergy test with a dermatologist,' reveals Capella.
TPO (Trimethylolpropane triacrylate) and HEMA (2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) are potential allergens often used in gel products. BIAB have created Sheers and Shimmers collection, which is the same iconic BIAB you know and love but is now TPO-free. They have also updated their formulas to contains 47 percent less HEMA and have included a stabiliser to prevent splitting, ensuring a smoother application experience.
How to properly care for your nails between manicures
Use a cuticle oil: These can help to protect your nail and cuticle against all trauma while also infusing the skin with nutrients and hydration.
Moisturise regularly: Applying a hand cream to your nails and cuticles multiple times a day and particularly after washing your hands, will help to strengthen skin and nails.
Wear gloves: Not just when it colds outside either. Wearing rubber gloves when doing cleaning prevents contact with harsh chemicals that can worsen existing damage.
Trim and file nails: Regularly trimming your nails to a manageable length and file them with a crystal nail file will help to maintain shape.
Stop biting and picking: Biting your nails can lead to infections as you're exposing broken skin to the bacteria in your mouth. Picking the skin surrounding nails also leads it open to potential infection.
Take a supplement: Adding a supplement that contains B-complex vitamins like biotin can help to strengthen nails. Some studies also suggest that collagen supplements can improve nail growth and improve strength.
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