Caleb Foster
UV gel manicures are a popular choice for those seeking long-lasting, low-maintenance nail treatments. However, despite their convenience, gel manicures can take a significant toll on nail health, causing issues such as dryness, fragility, peeling, and lifting. To heal nails after UV gel treatments, it is important to deeply hydrate and nourish the nails and cuticles with moisturisers, oils, and balms. Additionally, nail hardeners and strengtheners can help seal and protect the nails, promoting new and healthy nail growth. Dietary changes, such as increasing nutrient-rich foods or taking supplements, can also support nail health and regeneration.
How to heal nails after UV gel
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Impact of UV gel on nails | Nails become thinner and weaker, dehydrated, dry and fragile |
| Nail damage causes | Damage caused during coating removal, exposure to chemicals and UV radiation, allergy to gel and ingredients in primers, polishes and top coats |
| Healing methods | Use of nail strengtheners, nail hardeners and conditioners, nail treatments, nail balms, cuticle oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, hand creams, nail creams, natural oils, collagen and vitamin supplements |
| Dietary recommendations | Include collagen-rich foods such as leafy greens, salmon, nuts and seeds. Ensure intake of essential nutrients like biotin, zinc, silicon, folic acid, iron, vitamins A, C and E through foods such as kiwi, parsley, brussel sprouts, cranberries, wild rose fruit, fish, green vegetables, avocado, and legumes |
| Preventative measures | Avoid gel manicures, opt for natural and breathable nail polishes, keep nails short and unpolished |
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What You'll Learn
Use a nail strengthener
Using a nail strengthener is an effective way to heal your nails after UV gel manicures. The gel manicure process involves treating your nails to chemicals and UV radiation or LED lamp exposure, which can cause damage and leave your nails thinner, weaker, and dehydrated. To restore your nails' health, you can use a nail strengthener product, which acts as a protective layer and helps seal your natural nails.
There are various nail strengthener options available, such as the Nail Magic Hardener and Conditioner, recommended by a Sally Beauty Supply employee. This product can be used as a base coat after the initial two weeks of application. Another option is the Fiote nail hardener, which can be purchased at Zillabeau with a 10% discount using the code PPN10. You can apply two layers of this strengthener and let them dry without over-buffing your nails beforehand.
If you prefer a polish option, the Perfect Formula Pink Gel Coat from Sephora is a nail strengthener that does not contain gel polish. This product is suitable for those who struggle with splitting nails. For those who want to promote nail strength and growth, the Quimica Alemana Nail Hardener Strengthener Polish Treatment is available on Amazon and eBay.
It is important to note that while nail strengtheners can help heal your nails, they should be used in conjunction with other nourishing techniques. This includes maintaining a healthy diet rich in nutrients essential for nail health, such as biotin, zinc, silicon, folic acid, and vitamins A, C, and E. You can also apply natural oils like jojoba or coconut to your nails and cuticles to keep them hydrated and supple.
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$19.98 $26.59
Buff nails
Buffing your nails is an important step in the process of healing nails after UV gel. It helps to smooth out ridges or jagged areas, and it can also be done to create a shiny finish. However, it is important not to over-buff your nails, as this can lead to thinning and damage.
When buffing your nails after removing UV gel, it is crucial to use a gentle touch and a high-quality buffer. Start by using a coarse-sided buffer and then move on to a softer side. Work your way up to a super-fine grit, such as a 1000-grit buffer, for a high-shine finish. Be sure to only buff the area where the gel was applied and avoid the new nail growth.
It is also important to be diligent about the pressure you apply and the direction of your buffing motions. Use some pressure and be sure to buff the sidewalls of your nails. The goal is to create a smooth surface, so take your time and be careful not to overdo it.
Additionally, if you are planning to reapply nail strengthener or polish, be mindful of the type of buffer you use. If you use a fine-grit buffer to buff the surface of your nails after applying a thick layer of nail strengthener or polish, you can lightly buff the surface to even it out.
Buffing your nails is an essential step in healing and preparing your nails for further treatment or polish. It helps create a smooth canvas and can also add shine. However, always remember to be gentle and not overdo it to avoid causing further damage to your nails.
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Improve your diet
Diet is a major factor in nail health. Eating a well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet will promote healthier nails. Nails are made of a fibrous protein called keratin, so it is important to eat enough protein to boost keratin production and create strong nails. Good sources of animal protein include organic chicken, eggs, lean red meat, and fish. For plant-based proteins, try tofu, lentils, quinoa, soya, raw nuts, and seeds.
Iron is also important for nail health as it provides cells with oxygen, which is necessary for healthy nails. A lack of iron can lead to brittle and dry nails. Animal sources of iron include oysters, beef, liver, and eggs, and plant-based sources include lentils, tofu, and dark leafy greens. Eating vitamin C-rich foods alongside plant-based iron sources will improve absorption.
Biotin is another important nutrient for nail health as it promotes healthy cell growth and aids in the metabolism of protein-building amino acids. Biotin-rich foods include organ meats such as liver, egg yolk, dairy products, yeast, salmon, avocado, sweet potato, nuts, seeds, and even cauliflower.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids provide moisture and nourishment to nails, making them appear shinier and healthier. Good sources of these fatty acids include raw nuts and seeds, especially walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseed. Oily fish such as salmon and mackerel are also good sources.
In addition to these specific nutrients, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking enough water, as this is crucial for maintaining healthy nails.
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Use a natural manicure
If you want to heal your nails after a UV gel manicure, a natural manicure is a great option. This type of manicure prioritises naturalness and focuses on delicacy and a natural look.
To start, you'll want to remove any remaining gel from your nails. This can be done by soaking your nails in acetone, but be aware that acetone can dry out your nails and skin, so it's important to take care when using this method. Once the gel is removed, you can begin your natural manicure.
The first step is to shape your nails using nail files. Choose a file that is specifically designed for natural nails, such as an emery board, and gently file your nails to your desired shape. If your nails are chipped or flaky, you may want to consider keeping them short, as this can help to disguise any imperfections.
After filing, it's important to hydrate your nails and cuticles. The gel manicure process can dehydrate your nails, making them dry and fragile, so be sure to apply a generous amount of moisturiser or oil to your cuticles and nails. Natural oils such as jojoba or coconut oil are great options, or you can use a specially formulated cuticle balm. Massage the product into your nails and cuticles nightly to keep the area nourished and supple, which will help promote healthy nail growth.
In addition to your nightly routine, be sure to apply hand cream at least three times a day. Choose a cream that is designed to hydrate and nourish the hands and nails, and don't be afraid to use a generous amount. You can also use a breathable nail polish during this time if you want to add a bit of colour, but it's important to give your nails a break from harsh polishes and removers.
Finally, consider taking supplements to support nail health from the inside out. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is essential for nail health, and taking a supplement can help strengthen your nails and promote growth. Other supplements that can benefit nail health include zinc, silicon, folic acid, and vitamins A, C, and E.
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Soak nails in vinegar and water
If you've removed your UV gel nails and are looking to heal your nails, you might want to try soaking them in a mixture of vinegar and water. This home remedy is often suggested for treating nail fungus, which can occur due to the use of gel nails. To prepare the soak, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a large bowl or bucket. The water should be warm or hot to dilute the vinegar and prevent skin irritation. Before soaking your nails, trim them to ensure the solution reaches the fungus and kills it. Then, soak your nails for 10 to 20 minutes daily for about two weeks. After soaking, thoroughly dry your nails, as fungus thrives in moisture.
In addition to this vinegar and water soak, you can try other remedies to heal your nails after UV gel manicures. For instance, you can deeply hydrate your nails and cuticles with natural oils like jojoba or coconut, or use a specially formulated cuticle balm. It's also beneficial to keep your nails unpolished or use breathable polishes while they recover. Additionally, consider taking supplements like biotin, collagen, and vitamin B to support nail health from within.
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Frequently asked questions
Give your nails a chance to grow out healthier by keeping them short and unpolished.
Nail Magic Hardener and Conditioner, Quimica Alemana Nail Hardener Strengthener Polish Treatment, and Perfect Formula Pink Gel Coat are some products that can help strengthen your nails.
Keep the cuticle nourished and supple to help new and healthy nails grow. Use natural oils such as jojoba or coconut oil, or a specially formulated cuticle balm.
It is important to note that the nail damage is often caused during the coating removal process. So, be gentle with your nails when removing gel polish. Avoid using acetone to remove the gel as it dries out the nails and skin.
Include collagen-rich foods such as leafy greens, salmon, nuts, and seeds. You can also take supplements like collagen, vitamin Biotin, zinc, silicon, folic acid, and vitamins A, C, and E.
