Caleb Foster
While gel manicures are a great way to get long-lasting, glossy nails, they can be damaging to your nails. The process of removing gel nail polish involves harmful acetone baths, which dry out nails and cause cracks, peeling, and ridging. This can weaken the nails and make them more susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections. As a result, dermatologists recommend taking breaks between gel manicures to let your nails recover. This involves rehydrating your nails with a moisturizing product and giving your cuticles a break from the unbendable structure of gel nails. While the concept of breathable nail polish exists, it is important to note that nails do not technically breathe as they do not have lungs. Instead, the term breathable refers to nail polishes that allow water and oxygen to pass through to the nail surface, promoting good nail health.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Do nails need to breathe? | No, nails do not have lungs and are dead, hardened layers. Nails get their nutrients from the blood flow to the nail bed underneath. |
| What is the purpose of letting nails breathe? | Nails do not need to breathe, but giving the cuticle area a break from gel nails can prevent damage and allow for regrowth. |
| How often should you let your nails breathe? | It depends on the product and the condition of your nails. If your nails are in extremely bad condition, take a few months off and transition to non-toxic products. |
| How to care for nails in between gel manicures? | Take a nail polish holiday for one to two weeks or longer. Rehydrate nails with a moisturizing product such as petroleum jelly. |
| How to remove gel nail polish? | Do not pick at the polish. Soak your fingertips in acetone or use cotton balls soaked in acetone wrapped in aluminum foil. |
| Are gel nails breathable? | No, gel nails are not breathable. However, there are breathable treatment polishes available that can be used between gel manicures. |
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What You'll Learn
- Nails are made from keratin, a type of protein
- Nails don't have lungs, so they don't technically breathe
- Nails get nutrients from the blood flow to the nail bed
- Breathable nail polish allows the natural movement of oil through and off the nail
- Acetone baths for removing gel manicures are harmful and can cause cracking and peeling
Nails are made from keratin, a type of protein
While some people believe in letting their nails "breathe" by taking a break from gel manicures, this is not actually necessary. Nails do not need to breathe as they get their nutrients from the blood flow to the nail bed underneath. However, it is important to give your nails a break from the damage caused by gel manicures, such as thinning from filing and removal. This damage can lead to ridges and split nails, especially in women aged 30 and above.
There are two main types of keratin: alpha-keratin and beta-keratin. Alpha-keratin is the predominant type found in human nails, providing strength and hardness. It is also present in the hair, epidermis, and nails of mammals. Beta-keratin, on the other hand, is more common in the animal kingdom, found in scales, feathers, beaks, claws, and reptile features.
Keratin is crucial for nail health as it serves as the main structural component, providing support and protection to the nail. It is also found in the hair and skin, where it helps to keep them healthy and strong. The nail matrix, the area where nail growth begins, plays a vital role in keratin production. This region contains specialized cells that continuously divide and produce keratinocytes, the building blocks of keratin.
To promote healthy nail growth, it is important to maintain a balanced diet rich in protein and essential vitamins. Additionally, proper hydration and stress management are key factors in supporting the keratinization process and maintaining strong and beautiful nails.
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Nails don't have lungs, so they don't technically breathe
While it is a common piece of advice to "let your nails breathe" between manicures, it is indeed a myth. Nails do not have lungs, so they do not technically breathe. The nail plate that grows out of the cuticle is a dead, hardened layer, and it is only considered alive underneath in an area called the nail matrix, from which it gets its nutrients from the bloodstream and not the air or environment.
However, this does not mean that you should not give your nails a break from manicures. The issue lies in the removal of the product, which can be damaging to the nail bed, especially if done incorrectly or carelessly. The cuticle area also needs a break from the unbendable structure of gels or acrylics, as they can cause thinning, ridging, and dryness.
Breathable nail polishes are a good alternative to traditional nail polishes as they are permeable, allowing water and oxygen to reach the nail surface, and do not contain toxic ingredients that can cause flaking, chipping, or discolouration. They also allow the natural movement of oil through and off the nail, keeping the nails moisturised and healthy.
It is important to note that while gels or acrylics can provide a protective layer for weak nails, they should be used in moderation and with proper care to maintain nail health.
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Nails get nutrients from the blood flow to the nail bed
While it is recommended that you take breaks between gel manicures, it is not because your nails need to "breathe". Nails do not need to breathe as they do not respire. Instead, they get all their nutrients from the blood flow to the nail bed underneath.
Nails are made up of layers of a protein called keratin, which is also found in your skin and hair. A protein deficiency can lead to chipped and brittle nails. Therefore, it is important to load up on protein-rich foods such as soy, meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs, among others. Nails also need vitamins and minerals to stay strong and healthy. For example, vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is known to be effective in growing nails, strengthening bones, tissues, and teeth. It acts as an antioxidant that prevents free radicals from damaging cells in the body. Many foods, including eggs, milk, citrus fruits, spinach, apricots, apples, and yams, are great sources of vitamin A.
Zinc deficiency may also lead to slow growth or abnormal discolourations of your nails. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in eggs, fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds, keep your keratinocytes healthy, allowing you to grow long and strong nails. Folic acid or vitamin B9 is also considered effective in promoting nail growth. Nails are considered the body's fastest-growing cells; therefore, folic acid is required to provide health and moisture to these growing tissues. Some foods rich in folic acid include beetroots, eggs, citrus fruits, avocados, and spinach.
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, encourages nail growth and is absorbed in the core of the nail. It also helps the body metabolise fats and proteins for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Foods such as salmon, a fatty fish rich in protein, and biotin and omega-3 fatty acids, are essential for nail health. For those who prefer a plant-based diet, beans and lentils are great sources of biotin.
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Breathable nail polish allows the natural movement of oil through and off the nail
While nails do not need to breathe as they get their nutrients from blood flow, they are naturally oily. This oil is what keeps nails flexible and healthy. Traditional nail polish can trap these oils, causing the nails to weaken and the polish to chip. Breathable nail polish, on the other hand, allows the natural movement of oil through and off the nail. This means that the nails stay moisturised but do not become overly soft or weak.
Breathable nail polish, also known as water-permeable nail polish, is formulated with tiny holes to allow air and moisture to pass through the polish and reach the nail bed. This creates a healthier environment for the nail and prevents damage that can be caused by traditional nail polish. Traditional nail polishes are made of a combination of nitrocellulose, resins, and plasticizers, which create a hard, glossy finish that can be damaging to the nail bed. When traditional nail polish is applied, the nail bed is suffocated because there is no way for air or moisture to pass through the polish, leading to dryness, brittleness, and even nail fungus.
Breathable nail polish is designed to be porous, allowing the nail to breathe and stay healthy. It is often free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates, making it a safer choice for those concerned about the ingredients in their beauty products. Toluene, for example, is a toxic chemical that can cause headaches, dizziness, and other health issues. Phthalates are used to make nail polish more flexible but can interfere with hormone levels and cause reproductive problems.
In addition to being healthier for the nails, breathable nail polish also offers a more durable manicure. Because the oil can naturally move through and off the nail, the polish can better grip the nail, resulting in less chipping. Breathable nail polish also tends to be easier to remove than traditional nail polish, which can be time-consuming and frustrating and often requires harsh chemicals that can damage the nails.
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Acetone baths for removing gel manicures are harmful and can cause cracking and peeling
While gel manicures can be beautiful and long-lasting, they can be tough on nails. Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling and cracking, and repeated use can increase the risk for skin cancer and premature skin aging on the hands.
Acetone is the most effective way to remove gel nail polish, but it is important to be cautious when using it. Soaking your fingertips in acetone can help remove the gel nail polish, but it is important to protect your skin from the acetone to prevent irritation and damage. Acetone exposure can cause your nails, cuticles, and the skin around your nails to become red, dry, and flaky. It can lead to cracking, peeling, and bleeding of the cuticle skin, which acts as a protector for your nail. Prolonged exposure to acetone has been associated with nail splitting, white discolouration of the nails, and overall thinning and severe brittleness of the nails.
To minimize the potential harm caused by acetone, it is recommended to only soak your fingertips in acetone instead of your whole hands or fingers. This helps protect the surrounding skin. Another option is to use cotton balls soaked in acetone and apply them to your nails by wrapping small pieces of aluminum foil or plastic food wrap around your fingertips. This ensures that only your nails come into contact with the acetone. After about 10 to 15 minutes, the nail polish should come off easily.
It is also important to note that non-acetone products can also be used to remove gel manicures. These acetone-free alternatives can be effective in removing gel nail polish while minimizing the potential risks associated with acetone exposure.
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Frequently asked questions
No, gel nails are not breathable. Nails do not have lungs, so they do not technically breathe. However, they can become brittle and damaged, so it is important to give them a break from gel nails and cuticle clipping from time to time.
It depends on your age and the condition of your nails. Older people may experience ridges and splits if they always have gels on, so they should consider taking a break more often. If your nails are in extremely bad condition, it is recommended to take a few months off and transition to non-toxic products.
Breathable nail polish does not contain toxic ingredients, so it does not cause flaking, chipping, or discolouration. It also allows the natural movement of oil through and off the nail, keeping them moisturised and healthy.
