Acrylic Nails in the Pool: Does Chlorine Really Ruin Them?

Does chlorine ruin acrylic nails? If you’re an acrylic nail lover, this is a question you don’t want to ignore. 

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the truth about the effects of chlorine on acrylic nails.

We’ll look at what you can do to protect your nails while still enjoying all the fun that comes with summertime. 

So let’s get started!

Does chlorine ruin acrylic nails?

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Acrylic nails are made of a mixture of liquid and acrylic powder that is applied to the natural nail and then shaped and molded to form an artificial nail. 

This mixture is susceptible to damage from chlorine.

When chlorine comes into contact with acrylic nails, it can cause the nails to become brittle, yellow, and even break.

However, the concentrations of chlorine in the average swimming pool are not enough to cause a significant amount of damage to your acrylics.

Exposure to the water in the pool is actually way more damaging than chlorine.

The mixture of water and chlorine can cause the adhesive used to secure the acrylic nails to weaken.

This means that your nails will start to lift. 

This can be especially frustrating if you’ve just had your acrylic nails done.

How to protect your acrylic nails while swimming

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So what can you do to stop your mani from getting ruined?

Here are 3 simple but effective ways to protect your acrylic nails from both chlorine and water damage.

These methods work while swimming in either chlorine-treated water or saltwater:

Apply Cuticle Oil: 

Applying cuticle oil to your nails before getting in the pool can help to create a barrier between your acrylic nails and the chlorine. 

The oil and water won’t mix, so the chlorine won’t be able to penetrate the acrylic and cause damage.

Apply a Protective Coating: 

Applying a clear coat of nail polish or a protective solution can help to create a protective barrier.

This will help to prevent the chlorine from seeping into the acrylic and causing problems.

Avoid Soaking in Chlorine Water for Long Periods of Time: 

While it may be tempting to soak in the pool all day, it’s not recommended for those with acrylic nails. 

It’s best to limit your exposure to chlorine.

Do this by taking frequent breaks and not soaking in the water for extended periods of time.

Wash your hands after exposure:

After getting out of the pool, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly to remove any residual chlorine. 

This will help to prevent further damage to your acrylic nails.

By taking these simple steps, you can keep your acrylic nails looking beautiful and healthy all summer long!

So go ahead and dive into summertime fun with confidence, knowing that your acrylic nails are protected from chlorine and water damage.

How long can you swim with acrylic nails?

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You can swim safely with acrylic nails for about an hour at a time.

It’s a good idea to take the proper precautions before you swim to protect your nails.

You’ll wanna protect them from both chlorine and water damage. 

Apply some cuticle oil before you go swimming.

This will help to stop the water from seeping into your nails.

One of the best things you can do is to limit your exposure to chlorine by taking frequent breaks and not soaking in the water for extended periods of time.

Do acrylic nails come off in chlorine?

Acrylic nails can come off in chlorine-treated pools, especially if you submerge your nails for too long.

Chlorine is a harsh chemical that can weaken the bond between the acrylic and your natural nail, causing the acrylic to lift, soften, and break.

When water gets into the nails, they swell and then contract again as they dry.

This process also weakens acrylic nails.

However, by taking a few simple steps to protect your nails from chlorine damage, you can minimize the risk of your acrylic nails coming off in the pool.

Applying an oil like coconut, olive or even baby oil is a great way to start. 

You should also keep your swimming sessions to an hour or less.

Does chlorine ruin gel nails?

Yes, exposure to both chlorine and water (like you get in a swimming pool) can cause gel nail polish to chip, peel, change color, and go gummy.

Hard gel nail extensions like polygel will stand up better to water and chlorine exposure, but they can still get damaged if submerged for too long.

To protect gel nails from damage while swimming, apply oil to them before entering the pool and keep swims to an hour or less.

Does water weaken acrylic nails?

Yes, absolutely. Water can be extremely damaging to acrylic nails.

You see, it soaks into the acrylic and causes it to expand.

Then as your acrylics are drying they contract.

This expanding and contracting weakens the acrylic making it more prone to cracks, breakages, and lifting.

Taking a shower or washing your hair while wearing acrylics isn’t that big of a deal.

But it’s important not to completely submerge your nails in water for a long time like in the bath or the swimming pool.

Do acrylic nails come off in salt water?

The short answer is no, acrylic nails won’t come off just from being in salt water. 

However, if you’re soaking in salt water for an extended period of time and constantly exposing your nails to it, the salt can dry out the adhesive and cause the acrylic nails to loosen. 

So, if you’re going for a swim in the ocean and want to keep your acrylics intact, it’s best to apply nail oil first and keep your swim short.

Can you wear acrylics in the pool?

So, technically you can wear acrylic nails in a pool, but it’s not the best idea. 

Chlorine and other chemicals in the water can weaken the adhesive and cause the acrylics to start peeling or lifting. 

If you really want to wear your acrylics to the pool, the best way to protect them is by applying nail oil before you dive in.

You should also wash and dry your nails thoroughly after you are done swimming.

That’s it!

I hope you enjoyed my does chlorine ruin acrylic nails post.

Have fun in the pool!

Author

  • Phoebe Meadows

    Phoebe Meadows is a self-proclaimed nail addict, always on the lookout for the latest trends and techniques. When she's not creating stunning nail designs, you can find her researching the latest nail care products or experimenting with new techniques.