Liam Carter
There is a common misconception that you need to let your nails breathe by taking breaks between manicures. Nails do not require oxygen from the air to stay healthy, as they get their oxygen and nutrients from the blood supply. However, nails can become damaged from aggressive mechanical and chemical removal methods, such as vigorous scraping or prolonged exposure to acetone. Therefore, it is recommended to take breaks between manicures to let your nails repair and strengthen. The length of the break depends on the product used and the condition of your nails, with breaks ranging from a few weeks to a few months.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nails need to breathe | Myth |
| Nails derive oxygen and nutrients from | Blood supply, not air |
| Nails have lungs | No |
| Nails are like | Hair |
| Nails are made from | Keratin, a type of protein |
| Nails need a break from | Damage of full removal and prepping for another set |
| Time for a break | Every 3-4 weeks |
| Time for natural nail to grow out | 4-6 months |
| Nails need a break if | Discoloration, dehydrated cuticles, keratin granulation, peeling, ridges, splits, thinning, weak |
| To avoid damage | Be vigilant in finding a manicurist that is careful not to excessively buff nails |
| To avoid damage | Avoid acetone nail polish remover |
| To repair damage | Keep nails hydrated, use cuticle oil |
| To repair damage | Use non-toxic products that protect the nails and prevent breaking, chipping, discolouration |
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What You'll Learn
Nails don't need to breathe, but they benefit from breaks
While nails do not need to breathe, taking breaks between manicures is essential for maintaining nail health. Nails derive oxygen and nutrients from the blood supply, not the air. Therefore, they do not require air to "breathe" in the traditional sense. However, this does not mean that nails do not benefit from breaks.
Nail polishes, especially those containing harsh chemicals, can negatively affect the nail plate if used constantly. Prolonged nail polish wear can lead to discolouration, with nails turning yellowish or stained from dark-coloured polishes. Additionally, the use of acetone nail polish removers can cause the superficial layers of nail cells to be removed, resulting in white smudges on the nails, known as keratin granulation.
Taking breaks between manicures allows nails to repair and restore their strength. During these breaks, it is important to keep nails hydrated and avoid picking at cuticles. Cuticle oil is an excellent way to maintain nail hydration, and massaging it into the nail plate and surrounding skin can boost circulation and promote healthy cell growth.
The length of the break depends on the product used and the condition of the nails. For nails that have become weak, smooth, or lost their colour, a 3-4 week break is recommended. However, if nails are in extremely poor condition, taking a few months off and transitioning to non-toxic, breathable nail polishes is advised. These polishes are healthier as they do not contain toxic ingredients, and they allow water and oxygen to reach the nail surface, preventing flaking, chipping, and discolouration.
While some people may choose to go without nail polish during breaks, others may opt for regular (non-gel) nail polish or "performance polish" manicures that contain nail vitamins and are easy to remove with non-acetone removers. Ultimately, the decision to take a break and the length of the break will depend on the individual's nail health and preferences.
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Manicures can damage nails
While some sources claim that nails do not need to "breathe", there are still risks involved in manicures that can damage your nails.
Firstly, mechanical damage can be caused by overly aggressive manicure practices. This includes cuticle removal or pushing back with force at the cuticle with a metal tool, as well as vigorous scraping or the use of an electric file. These practices can thin the nail plate and damage the cuticle and the nail matrix, which is the nail-producing centre of the nail.
Secondly, chemical damage can be caused by nail polish removal, especially if the remover contains acetone. Acetone can dry out and dehydrate your nails and the surrounding skin, leading to weak, brittle nails and dry, irritated skin.
Thirdly, gel manicures require curing under a UV or LED lamp, and this UV exposure can contribute to photoaging and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Finally, some people may experience nail bed damage during acrylic manicure application or contact allergies.
Therefore, while nails do not need to "breathe" in the sense of taking in oxygen, it is important to be vigilant in finding a manicurist who is careful not to damage your nails and cuticles with aggressive practices or chemical removal methods. Taking breaks between manicures can also help to ensure nail health.
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Signs your nails need a break
While nails do not need to "breathe" in the traditional sense, as they do not have pores and obtain oxygen from the blood supply in our fingers and fingertips, they do need breaks in between manicures. This is because the manicure process and certain nail products can take a toll on your natural nails, causing damage and dehydration. Here are some signs that indicate your nails need a break from polish and manicures:
Yellow Staining
One of the most common signs that your nails need a break is if they become yellow or discoloured. This is often caused by frequently wearing bright, pigmented nail polishes, especially blue, green, and pink shades. Applying a base coat before nail polish can help prevent staining, and using a breathable nail polish can be a good alternative if you don't want to part from bold colours.
Thinning of Nails
If your nails start to look and feel thin, it may be time to take a break from manicures and nail polish. This thinning can be caused by various factors, including peeling off gel nail polish, which can also painfully strip layers of your natural nail underneath. Other causes include excessive exposure to water and the use of harsh chemicals like acetone during the removal process, which can lead to dry, brittle nails.
Dry and Peeling Cuticles
Dry cuticles can be a sign that your nails need a break, as cuticle hydration is essential for nail health. Acetone, a common ingredient in nail polish removers, can contribute to drying out the cuticle area. When cuticles become dry, they may start to peel, increasing the risk of fungal infections. Using cuticle oil daily can help maintain hydration and promote healthy cell growth.
Ridges and Splits
The appearance of ridges and splits on your nails may indicate the need for a break. Ridges can be caused by prolonged nail polish wear or improper removal methods, such as using electric files or abrasive buffers that scrape the nail surface. Horizontal ridges, known as Beau's lines, may be a more serious indication of kidney disease or another underlying condition, while vertical ridges are generally less concerning.
Keratin Granulation
Keratin granulation, characterised by rough and white patches on the nail surface, is another sign that your nails need a rest. This condition can be caused by prolonged nail polish wear or improper prep and removal techniques. Finding a manicurist who is careful not to excessively buff or scrape the nail surface is crucial to preventing this type of damage.
It is recommended to take a break from manicures and nail polish for at least a week or two to allow your nails to hydrate, repair, and grow. During this break, you can focus on proper nail care, such as keeping your nails hydrated and avoiding picking at your cuticles.
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How to care for nails between manicures
While nails do not need to "breathe" between manicures, they do need breaks from the damage caused by aggressive mechanical and chemical removal methods. Mechanical damage is caused by rough removal, such as vigorous scraping, while an example of chemical damage is the drying out and brittling of nails due to prolonged exposure to acetone. Therefore, it is recommended to take breaks of a week or two between manicures to allow nails to recover. During these breaks, you can take several steps to care for your nails:
- Keep your nails hydrated and avoid picking at your cuticles.
- Use a hand scrub, followed by a hand massage with lotion, and finish with a cuticle oil.
- Wear gloves when cleaning to avoid damage to your nails and cuticles.
- Avoid picking or peeling off gel polish. Instead, use a nail lacquer in your chosen colour to cover any chips.
- Trim and file your nails properly.
- Avoid biting your nails.
Additionally, it is important to be vigilant in finding a manicurist who is careful not to excessively buff nails. Signs of excessive buffing include feeling extreme heat or pain.
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The benefits of 'breathable' nail polishes
While nails do not require oxygen to "breathe", breathable nail polishes have gained popularity due to their purported health benefits and religious compatibility. Here are the key benefits of using breathable nail polishes:
Religious Compatibility:
Breathable nail polishes are designed to allow water and oxygen molecules to pass through to the nail. This permeability is especially important for individuals who follow certain religious practices, such as Islam, where water must touch the entire body, including the nails, during ablution or Wudu, a religious purification practice performed multiple times a day before prayers. Regular nail polishes act as a barrier, preventing the completion of this religious requirement.
Potential Health Benefits:
Some proponents of breathable nail polishes argue that allowing water and oxygen to reach the nail bed helps maintain a healthier environment, potentially preventing issues like brittleness, fungal growth, and nail staining. Traditional nail polishes, with their tight molecular structure, can trap natural oils, weaken nails, and cause discolouration. However, it is important to note that the health benefits of breathable polishes are still up for debate, with limited scientific studies supporting these claims.
Convenience and Durability:
Breathable nail polishes offer convenience by reducing the drying time required for manicures. They also provide a stronger and more durable manicure, reducing chipping and extending the time between manicures. This can be especially beneficial for those who constantly wear nail polish and wish to maintain healthy nails.
Chemical-Free Alternatives:
Many traditional nail polishes contain known toxic substances, such as formaldehyde, camphor, and toluene. Breathable nail polish formulas, such as the Kester Black 12-Free formula, avoid these chemicals, offering a safer alternative for those concerned about the potential health impacts of nail care products.
In conclusion, while nails do not need to "breathe" in the traditional sense, breathable nail polishes offer a range of benefits beyond simple breathability, including religious compatibility, potential health benefits, convenience, and chemical-free alternatives. However, it is important to approach the health claims with realistic expectations and prioritize proper nail care and mindful beauty practices to maintain healthy nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Nails do not need to breathe as they do not have lungs and are not living tissue. However, it is recommended to take breaks in between manicures to let your nails repair and grow.
The frequency of breaks depends on the product you use and the condition of your nails. If your nails are weak, it is recommended to take a break every three to four weeks. If your nails are in extremely bad condition, take a few months off.
Signs that your nails need a break include keratin granulation (white patches on the surface of the nail), peeling, ridges, splits, discolouration, and dehydrated cuticles.
During the break, keep your nails hydrated and avoid picking at your cuticles. You can use cuticle oil to keep your nails moisturised.
