Liam Carter
There is a common belief that nails need to breathe between manicures, but this is a myth. Nails do not have lungs, and they receive their oxygen and nutrients from the bloodstream, not the air. However, it is still important to give your nails occasional breaks from polish to prevent damage caused by frequent manicures and the use of harsh chemicals. This includes mechanical damage from rough removal and chemical damage from acetone, which can cause nails to become dry, brittle, and discoloured. Therefore, while nails do not need to breathe per se, taking breaks between gel manicures and prioritising proper nail care can help maintain their health and appearance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Do nails need to breathe? | No, nails do not have lungs and therefore do not breathe. Nails derive oxygen and nutrients from the blood supply and not the air. |
| Do nails need a break from gel manicures? | Yes, nails need a break from the damage of full removal and prepping for another set of dip every 2 to 4 weeks. |
| How long should the break be? | It is recommended to take a week or two break between manicures. |
| How to care for nails between manicures? | Keep your nails hydrated, trim them regularly, use lotion or hand cream, use gloves when working with water, and do not use your nails as tools. |
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What You'll Learn
Nails don't need to breathe, but they do need breaks from manicures
While it is a common belief that nails need to "'breathe' between manicures, this is actually a myth. Nails do not have lungs, and therefore, they do not breathe. They receive their oxygen, nutrients, and blood supply from the bloodstream, not from the air. The part of the nail that is visible is a dead, hardened layer of keratin, a type of protein, and is only alive underneath in an area called the nail matrix.
However, this does not mean that nails do not need breaks from manicures. Constantly wearing nail polish without giving your nails a break can lead to issues like dehydration, weakening, and discolouration. The removal process of gel and acrylic manicures can be physically damaging to the nails, and traditional nail polish and removers can cause keratin granulation, a condition where nails develop rough, white patches. This happens when the superficial layers of nail cells are removed with the nail polish.
To maintain healthy nails, it is recommended to take breaks between manicures and to be vigilant in finding a careful manicurist who does not excessively buff or over-file your nails. During the break, you can keep your nails hydrated and resist the urge to pick at your cuticles. You can also use a non-acetone remover to limit dehydration of the nail bed as acetone can cause nails to dry out and become more brittle.
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The benefits of breathable nail polish
While nails do not technically "breathe", they do need breaks in between manicures to prevent damage and allow for regrowth. This is especially important if you have noticed any signs of damage, such as ridges, splits, discolouration, thinning, or dryness.
Breathable nail polish is a healthier alternative to traditional nail polish, as it allows water and oxygen to pass through to the nail via a staggered molecular structure that creates tiny holes. This prevents the nail bed from drying out and becoming damaged, which can occur when a solid film of traditional nail polish is applied and prevents air and moisture from passing through.
- Healthier nails: The permeable formula of breathable nail polish allows water and oxygen to reach the nail, creating a healthier environment and preventing damage to the nail bed. This is especially beneficial for people with dry or brittle nails.
- Reduced risk of infection: Traditional nail polish can trap natural oils, weakening the nails and making them more susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections. Breathable nail polish allows the natural movement of oil, keeping nails flexible and healthy.
- Longer-lasting manicure: Breathable nail polish provides a stronger manicure that lasts longer without chipping. The tiny holes in the polish formula allow for better grip, reducing the chances of chips and fractures.
- Easy removal: Breathable nail polish is generally easier to remove than traditional nail polish, which often requires harsh chemicals and can be time-consuming and damaging to the nails.
- Equitable and inclusive: Water-permeable nail polish is a more inclusive option, allowing individuals who observe religious practices that involve cleansing the hands and nails, such as Wudu, to have polished nails while still being able to perform their rituals.
- Reduced exposure to toxic chemicals: Traditional nail polishes often contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates, which have been linked to various health issues. Breathable nail polish formulas typically exclude these toxic ingredients, offering a safer and more natural alternative.
- Faster drying time: Due to the permeable nature of breathable nail polish, air can penetrate through, resulting in a drastically reduced drying time. This also eliminates the need for quick-dry sprays or additional products, simplifying your nail care routine.
- Nail repair and regrowth: During breaks between manicures, it is essential to care for your nails and promote regrowth. Breathable nail polish can aid in this process by providing nourishment and protection while your nails recover from any damage caused by previous manicures.
In conclusion, while it is not necessary to let your nails "breathe" in the literal sense, taking breaks between gel manicures and opting for breathable nail polish formulas can provide numerous benefits for the health and appearance of your nails.
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How to care for your nails between manicures
While nails do not need to "breathe", they do need breaks in between manicures. This is because the removal process can be physically damaging to nails, causing them to become dry, brittle, and discoloured. Therefore, it is important to take care of your nails between manicures.
Firstly, it is recommended to keep your nails hydrated. You can do this by using a daily nutritive serum or cuticle oil. It is also important to resist the urge to pick at your cuticles or bite your nails, as this can lead to infections and damage. When removing nail polish, it is best to use a non-acetone remover to limit dehydration of the nail bed. Acetone can cause nails to become dry, brittle, and discoloured, and more susceptible to infections.
Additionally, it is advisable to wear gloves when washing dishes or working with water, as water can be damaging to nails. Using lotion or hand cream several times a day, especially after washing your hands, can also help to keep your nails and hands hydrated. It is also recommended to trim your nails regularly and keep them short to minimise the risk of injury or chipping.
Finally, when choosing a nail polish, opt for one that is free of toxic chemicals, as these can be harmful to your nails. "Breathable" nail polishes are often enriched with nourishing ingredients and can help keep the nail cells together, reducing the risk of splitting and peeling.
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The risks of UV nail lamps
While it is a common misconception that nails need to "breathe" between manicures, this is not the case. Nails derive oxygen and nutrients from the blood supply, not the air. However, it is still important to give your nails breaks in between manicures to allow them to recover from any damage caused by the removal process and prepping for a new set. This is especially true for gel and acrylic manicures, which can be more physically damaging to remove than regular polish.
Now, onto the risks of UV nail lamps:
UV nail lamps have been associated with a higher risk of skin cancer due to the emission of ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation. A 2014 study in JAMA Dermatology found that the level of UVA exposure from a gel manicure every two weeks is probably not high enough to significantly increase the risk of skin cancer. However, it is still wise to be aware of the potential risks and take precautions. Some lamps are referred to as UV lamps, while others are called LED lamps, but both types emit ultraviolet radiation, mainly in the form of UVA.
To protect yourself from the potentially harmful effects of UV nail lamps, it is recommended to use sunscreen on your hands or wear fingerless gloves during your manicure. This will provide added protection from the damaging effects of UVA radiation. Additionally, some people may be more sensitive to UV exposure, such as those with certain skin conditions or those taking medications that increase UV sensitivity. In these cases, it is better to opt for a traditional manicure instead of a gel manicure.
It is worth noting that most nail salons now use LED lights instead of UV lights as they are more efficient. However, both types of lamps emit ultraviolet radiation, so it is important to take the necessary precautions regardless of the lamp type.
In addition to the risks associated with UV exposure, gel manicures can also lead to the development of allergies. Some people have reported experiencing allergies around their fingertips after getting gel nails. This is due to the gel coming into contact with the skin, which can result in lifelong allergies to acrylics. Therefore, it is important to be informed about gel and methacrylate allergies before opting for a gel manicure.
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The importance of professional gel manicure removal
While nails do not need to "breathe", they do need breaks between manicures to recover from any damage caused by the removal process and the application of a new set.
The process of removing gel manicures can be particularly damaging to nails. Acetone, which is often used to remove gel manicures, can dry out nails and cause them to become brittle, cracked, and ridged. This can lead to fungal and bacterial infections. The use of foil wraps during the removal process can also lead to acetone dripping onto the skin and causing irritation and damage.
To avoid this damage, it is important to have gel manicures removed by a professional who can take the time and care needed to avoid harming your nails. They will be able to safely and effectively remove the gel polish without causing unnecessary damage to your nails or skin. Professionals will also have access to tools that can aid in the removal process, such as a nail drill, which can help to remove residual polish.
Additionally, taking breaks between gel manicures allows your nails to recover from any thinning, ridging, or discolouration that may have occurred. During these breaks, you can care for your nails by keeping them hydrated, using cuticle oil, and applying lotion or hand cream to maintain their health.
Therefore, it is crucial to seek professional gel manicure removal services to ensure the safe and proper removal of gel polish, preventing damage to your nails and allowing them to remain strong and healthy.
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Frequently asked questions
No, your nails do not need to breathe as they do not have lungs. However, nails can benefit from occasional breaks to prevent damage from the removal process, which can cause cracking, peeling, and ridging.
The frequency of breaks depends on the condition of your nails and the products used. Some people take breaks between every few sets, while others take breaks when they notice signs of damage, such as thinning, ridging, or dryness. It is recommended to let your nails completely grow out, which usually takes about six months.
To care for your nails between gel manicures, you can use a non-acetone nail polish remover to limit dehydration. You can also keep your nails hydrated, avoid picking or biting them, and use lotion or hand cream regularly. Additionally, it is important to be vigilant in finding a manicurist who is careful not to excessively buff or over-file your nails.
