Isla Bennett
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those wanting durable and long-lasting nail polish. However, applying gel nail polish over an injured nail is not recommended as it may cause further damage or increase the risk of infection. If a nail injury occurs, it is important to prioritise healing and take steps to prevent infection, such as keeping the area clean and applying antibiotic ointment. Once the nail has healed, it is crucial to prepare the nails properly before considering gel polish again. This may include nourishing the nails with cuticle oil and hand cream, as well as ensuring proper nail prep and careful application techniques. While gel manicures can enhance the appearance of nails, it is always important to consider the potential risks and take appropriate measures to maintain nail health.
Can I put gel nails over a nail injury?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Should I put gel nails over a nail injury? | It is not recommended to put gel nails over a nail injury. |
| What to do if the nail is partially lifted off the nail bed? | Trim the nail back as short as possible to reduce the risk of further injury. |
| How to prevent infection? | Keep the area clean and apply an antibiotic ointment under the free edge of the nail. |
| What to do if there is bleeding under the nail plate? | This is referred to as a "traumatic hematoma". As long as the normal skin barriers around the nail are not violated, it is difficult for an infection to occur. |
| How to relieve pain due to the buildup of a hematoma? | Use a paper clip to carefully melt a small hole in the nail plate to relieve pressure. |
| How to repair nails after gel manicure damage? | Apply cuticle oil, followed by a hand cream to deliver vitamins and nourishment to the nails. |
| How to prevent damage from gel manicures? | Ensure your manicurist isn't using an electric file, don't peel nails, and if you must remove them, use acetone and nourish with an oil afterward. |
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What You'll Learn
Nail injury treatment
Nail injuries are common and can be caused by a variety of accidents, such as car doors, kitchen mishaps, sports injuries, stubbing a toe, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. Depending on the severity of the injury, you can often treat an injured nail at home. However, it is important to know when to seek medical help. If you cannot bend your finger or toe, if there is significant blood coverage on your nail, if your nail turns black or purple, or if the pain is unbearable, it is best to see a dermatologist or seek emergency medical care.
For mild nail injuries, you can follow these treatment steps:
- Treat the wound by gently trimming away any part of the nail that is hanging off. Ensure you only trim the part that is not connected to your skin.
- Clean the wound gently using soap and water. If the wound is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. Do not put a dry bandage or gauze directly on the wound, as it will stick once the blood dries.
- Apply petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist, and then cover it with gauze or a bandage. Repeat this process daily while the wound heals.
- Do not apply sticky products directly to your nail, as they can irritate the injury. Instead, use adhesive bandages or medical tape on the skin surrounding your nail. You can also wrap the wound with a loosely wrapped elastic bandage.
- To reduce swelling, apply a cool, damp washcloth to the wound. Prop up your arm or leg with the injured nail above the level of your heart to further reduce swelling. Taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help alleviate pain and reduce swelling.
- Protect your injured nail with a light dressing, such as an adhesive bandage or a small piece of gauze, until it is completely healed.
To prevent future nail injuries, it is recommended to keep your nails short so they don't bend or catch on objects. Additionally, ensure your shoes fit well and have a wide toe box to prevent rubbing. When engaging in sports or activities where your nails may be at risk, wear protective gear to safeguard your nails.
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Gel nail removal
Before you start removing your gel polish, it is recommended to work on one hand at a time and to choose a well-ventilated area because acetone has a strong smell. You can put a cloth over your work area to avoid acetone stains. Cut 10 squares of aluminum foil, big enough for each fingertip. If you're using cotton balls, tear off 10 pieces that fit just the nail bed of each nail.
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to each cuticle and the surrounding skin to protect your skin from the acetone. Cut the cotton balls or strips to the size of each nail. Soak each piece of cotton in acetone and place it on top of the nail. Wrap the nail with plastic food wrap to create a tight seal. Avoid wrapping your nails so tightly that you cut off your circulation. Leave the plastic wrap on for 10 minutes. When you remove the plastic wrap, most or all of the gel nail polish should be gone. Remove any remaining gel nail polish with a washcloth that you've just run under warm water. Use the wet washcloth to gently rub off any remaining polish, taking care to only rub the nail and not the surrounding skin. Wash your hands or feet with a gentle soap and water to remove the acetone. If you have a fragrance-free soap, use it. Any mild soap will help you avoid irritating your skin.
Alternatively, you can use a coarse nail file on the top coat layer until it's no longer shiny and smooth. Put a thick layer of gel polish remover on your gel nails, trying not to get it on your skin. Give the remover 5 minutes to soak into the gel nails. You'll see the edges of the gel polish start to peel, crack, bubble, or burst. If your gel polish is thick, you might need to wait a bit longer. Use a metal cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick to gently remove the gel polish from each nail. Then, clean your nails with a nail buffer.
After removing your gel nails, you can repair any damage to your nails by applying cuticle oil, followed by a hand cream. Cuticle oils deliver vitamins and nourishment, while the cream will lock in the moisture. You can also soak your nails in olive oil for about 10 to 15 minutes daily.
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Pros and cons of gel nails
Gel nail polish is a popular choice for those seeking a long-lasting manicure, but is it the right choice for everyone? Here are some pros and cons to consider before your next manicure.
Pros of Gel Nails:
- Durability and Longevity: Gel nails are known for their durability and can last up to three weeks without chipping, peeling, or breaking. This makes them a great option for those who want a long-lasting manicure.
- High-Shine Finish: Gel nails offer a high-gloss, shiny finish that is desired by many. The formula soaks deeper into the nail plate, strengthening the bond and resulting in a flawless manicure.
- Mimics Natural Nails: Gel nail polish is designed to mimic the look and feel of natural nails. It provides a flexible coating that moves with your nails, reducing the risk of tearing or damage to the nail bed.
- Convenience and Variety: Gel nail polish allows you to achieve a wide range of looks, from a timeless French manicure to bolder designs. With gel nails, you can enjoy the convenience of less frequent manicures without sacrificing style.
Cons of Gel Nails:
- Complex Application and Removal: The application and removal processes for gel nails are more time-consuming and complex than traditional nail polish. Gel nail polish requires an LED or UV light to cure and harden, and removing it improperly can lead to nail damage.
- Potential Nail Damage: While gel nails are flexible, they can still cause damage to your nails, especially if removed incorrectly. It is important to allow your nails to breathe and recover between gel manicures.
- Cost: Gel nails tend to be more expensive than regular nail polish due to the longer-lasting formula and the need for special equipment. The higher price tag may be a consideration for those on a budget.
- Inconvenience: The longer-lasting nature of gel nails can be a disadvantage if you like to change your nail colour frequently. Removing gel nails requires more effort and can be a less convenient option for those who prefer to switch up their nail colours often.
Overall, the decision to choose gel nails depends on individual preferences, needs, and lifestyle. While gel nails offer durability and a high-shine finish, they may not be suitable for everyone due to the potential for nail damage, complex removal processes, and higher costs. It is important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether gel nails are the right choice for your nail care routine.
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Gel nail repair
It is not recommended to apply gel nails over a nail injury. If the nail is partially lifted off the nail bed, the gel overlay should not be removed as this would add trauma to the injured nail and nail bed. Instead, trim the nail back as short as possible to reduce the risk of further injury. The injured area should be kept clean and an antibiotic ointment should be applied to prevent infection.
If the nail is bruised or painful, a dermatologist may recommend using ice compresses for a few days and taking Aleve or Ibuprofen to help with the pain. It is also important to keep the nail well-moisturized with nail or cuticle oil and lotions.
If there is bleeding under the nail plate, referred to as a "traumatic hematoma", the nail should be cleansed with hydrogen peroxide and a topical antibiotic ointment should be applied to prevent infection. If there is a buildup of the hematoma and pain, an old trick is to use a paper clip heated over a gas flame to carefully melt a small hole in the nail plate and relieve the pressure. However, caution must be taken to avoid infection, and if the hematoma gradually enlarges, it may be a malignant melanoma and should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
To repair nails after gel manicure damage, it is recommended to apply cuticle oil followed by hand cream. Cuticle oils deliver vitamins and nourishment, while the cream locks in moisture. Nails can also be soaked in olive oil for about 10 to 15 minutes daily to help repair damaged nails.
It is important to note that gel manicures can damage nails, especially if they are not removed properly. To prevent damage, ensure that an electric file is not used, and do not peel the nails. Instead, use acetone to remove the gel and nourish the nails with oil afterward.
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Nail injury prevention
Nail injuries are common and can occur due to various reasons, including industrial accidents, road traffic accidents, sports injuries, or even during a manicure. Here are some tips for nail injury prevention:
Protect Your Nails:
Be mindful of activities that may pose a risk to your nails and take precautions to safeguard them. For instance, if you're handling heavy machinery or playing sports, consider wearing protective gloves or finger guards to shield your nails from potential trauma.
Practice Good Manicure Habits:
When getting a manicure, ensure your manicurist follows proper techniques and uses appropriate tools. Avoid electric files, as they can cause damage to your nails. Instead, opt for manual filing, and be cautious of cuticle scissors to prevent accidental nicks and cuts. Additionally, be mindful of the sensations during the manicure; if you experience intense heat or pain, speak up and seek appropriate adjustments or stop the procedure.
Maintain Nail Health:
Nail health is essential to prevent injuries and promote healing. Consume a balanced diet rich in nutrients like biotin, which strengthens nails. You can also apply cuticle oil and hand cream to moisturize and nourish your nails and cuticles. Additionally, consider using nail strengtheners, protein-enriched bases, and topcoats designed to reinforce your nails and encourage healthy growth.
Address Injuries Promptly:
If a nail injury occurs, take immediate action. For minor injuries, clean the wound and apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. If there is bleeding under the nail (subungual hematoma), monitor for pain and seek medical advice if necessary. For more serious injuries, such as a broken bone or a large bruise, go to an urgent care center or the emergency room. They will provide the necessary treatment, which may include draining the hematoma, repairing the nail bed, or reattaching the nail.
By following these precautions and staying vigilant about nail care, you can significantly reduce the risk of nail injuries and promote overall nail health.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not recommended to put gel nails over an injured nail. This can cause further damage and increase the risk of infection. It is best to allow the nail to heal first and ensure it is kept clean and short.
If your nail is injured and you are wearing gel nails, it is important to remove the gel nail carefully. Do not peel the gel nail off, as this can damage your natural nail. Instead, use acetone to remove the gel nail gently.
To treat an injured nail, it is recommended to trim the nail short and apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Keep the area clean and dry. You can also apply cuticle oil and hand cream to nourish and moisturize the nail and surrounding skin.
Signs of infection to look out for include pain, swelling, redness, heat, and drainage. If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical advice promptly.
