Ava Monroe
Many people opt for gel manicures because of their longevity and aesthetic appeal. However, the removal process can cause significant damage to the nail, resulting in white spots, lines, and cloudy marks. This damage can be caused by the use of harsh tools and techniques, such as drills, and the drying effects of acetone. Improper removal methods, such as peeling or picking, can also lead to textural irregularities and weakened nail structure. As a result, nails may become brittle, flaky, and prone to breaking and snapping. To restore nail health, it is crucial to deeply hydrate and nourish the nails and cuticles with natural oils, moisturisers, and cuticle balms.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Trauma to the nail bed, injury to the base of the nail, harsh removal process, or an allergy |
| Appearance | White spots, scuff marks, lines, or patches; cloudy marks; ridges; or peeling |
| Treatment | Use hydrating products like cuticle oil, moisturizer, and hand cream; gently buff nails; moisturize with cuticle oil or cream |
| Prevention | Avoid back-to-back gel manicures, use a gentle removal process, do not pick at nails |
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What You'll Learn
White nails may be caused by trauma to the nail bed
To avoid this issue, it is recommended that you ask your nail technician to wait until the gel nail is fully lifted before attempting to remove it. Alternatively, you can use a product like Builder in a Bottle gel nails, which provides nail extension while also being beneficial to the nail's condition.
If you have already experienced nail trauma, there are several steps you can take to speed up the healing process and restore your nails to a strong and healthy state. Firstly, it is important to deeply hydrate your nails, as the gel and the removal process can dehydrate them, making them dry and fragile. Apply moisturiser or natural oils such as jojoba or coconut oil to your cuticles and nails regularly. Keeping the cuticle nourished helps a new and healthy nail to grow, so focus most of your attention on that area. You can also use a specially formulated cuticle balm and your favourite hand cream. Apply hand cream at least three times a day and massage oils or balm into your cuticles nightly.
In addition to hydration, you should also be gentle with your nails during the healing process. Avoid harsh soaps, as these can further dehydrate and irritate your nails. Instead, switch to gentle, creamy soaps. It is also recommended to gently buff your nails to even out the nail plates and prevent further peeling.
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Dehydration caused by acetone can lead to white patches
The use of acetone can weaken the nail structure, and improper removal techniques can leave nails rough, thin, and prone to breaking and snapping. Gels can also cause nails to lose moisture, leading to flakiness and peeling. To restore nail health, deep hydration is crucial. This involves using natural oils like jojoba or coconut, cuticle balms, and hand creams to replenish the moisture balance. Additionally, gentle creamy soaps are recommended to avoid further dehydration.
It is important to be gentle with nails during the removal process to prevent damage. Allowing nails to grow out naturally without picking or peeling the gel is ideal. When removing gel polish, it is best to wait until it is fully lifted and can be easily removed, rather than scraping or forcing it off. This prevents trauma to the nail bed and minimizes the risk of white patches and other irregularities.
To promote nail health after gel removal, it is essential to focus on hydration and nourishment. This includes using moisturizers, oils, and cuticle treatments to restore moisture and strengthen nails. Cuticles should be pushed back gently with an orange stick, and cuticle oil should be massaged into them daily. By following these steps, you can help your nails recover from the dehydrating effects of acetone and promote the growth of strong, healthy nails.
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Gels can cause nail allergies and sensitivity
Allergies to gel nail polish often result from chemicals like methacrylates. Common symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, and nail changes. Treatment includes avoidance of the allergen. Hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) is a type of acrylate and has been called "the most commonly sensitizing methacrylate" by researchers. Acrylates, which are used in both preformed and sculpted nails, can cause two rare but very serious reactions: paraesthesias (tingling and prickling) and nail loss.
Gel nail allergies can develop in response to specific chemicals present in numerous nail products. Some people may have a sensitivity to one or more of the different chemical components that make up nail cosmetics. Sensitivity to the offending agent may cause allergic contact dermatitis and/or irritant contact dermatitis not only around the nail area but also around areas commonly touched, such as the eyelids, mouth and chin, and sides of the neck. Nail cosmetic allergies may also lead to nail diseases such as paronychia, onycholysis, and other nail dystrophies.
If you suspect that you are allergic to gel nail polish, it is best to avoid using it altogether. However, if you experience contact dermatitis or a delayed allergic reaction, promptly remove the nail polish and consult a physician for appropriate treatment. Treatment for gel nail allergies may require topical steroids. Steroid creams should be prescribed by a healthcare provider and used as directed.
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Improper removal can cause nail damage
Additionally, your nails may get used to the gel's protective coating, so they start breaking and snapping after the gel is removed. Gels can cause nails to lose moisture and become brittle, flaky, and peel. This can also be caused by improperly peeling the gel and removing the nail plate. The tools and techniques used during removal can also cause damage and leave nails rough.
To prevent damage, it is important to properly care for your nails after removing gel polish. This includes deeply hydrating your nails with moisturizers or natural oils like jojoba or coconut oil. Cuticle oil and hand cream can also be used to nourish and protect the cuticles, promoting healthy nail growth. It is recommended to keep your nails unpolished during this intense hydration period to allow them to recover.
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Gels can cause nails to become brittle and flaky
Additionally, peeling off gel manicures can remove the top layers of delicate cells, resulting in white patches and textural irregularities throughout the nails. This can further lead to issues such as nail lifting and hyperkeratosis. The nail bed can also be affected, with some people experiencing trauma to the nail bed due to aggressive scraping during gel removal.
To prevent and treat nail damage caused by gels, it is important to properly care for your nails. This includes moisturising your nails and the surrounding area, as well as gently buffing your nails to even out the nail plates and prevent further peeling. Using natural oils, such as jojoba or coconut oil, can help to deeply hydrate and nourish the nails and cuticles. It is also recommended to keep your nails unpolished for a period of time to allow for intense hydration.
Furthermore, it is advised to be cautious when choosing a nail salon or technician, as some places may use harsh removal techniques that can damage your nails. It is worth noting that some people may have sensitivities to certain gel ingredients, which can also contribute to nail damage. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of any reactions or changes to your nails after getting gel manicures.
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Frequently asked questions
The white spots on your nails are likely caused by trauma to your nail bed. This could be due to injury to the base of the nail or from the removal process. The white spots will disappear after around eight months, which is the time needed for nails to regrow completely.
To prevent your nails from turning white, avoid picking or peeling at your gel manicure. Instead, allow the gel to be removed professionally. You can also ask your nail technician to use a product other than acetone, as this can be drying and damaging to the nail.
After removing gel nails, it is important to deeply hydrate your nails. Use moisturiser or natural oils such as jojoba or coconut oil on your cuticles and nails to promote healthy nail growth. You can also use a specially formulated cuticle balm or your favourite hand cream.
Yes, gel nails can cause long-term damage to the nail. The removal process can be particularly harsh, leaving nails rough, brittle, and flaky. Gels can also cause nails to become paper-thin and prone to breaking and snapping.
