How to Repair Damaged Nails After Acrylics: Quick & Easy Tips

Today’s post is all about how to repair damaged nails after acrylics.

Whether you have peeling, breaking, or brittle nails, don’t worry, there’s hope!

In this article, we’ll take you through the different types of damage that can occur, the steps you can take to repair your nails at home, and the professional treatments available to you. 

We’ll also give you some tips on how to prevent further damage in the future so that you can keep your nails looking their best. 

Let’s get to it!

Weak nails after acrylics

how to repaire damaged nails https://nailhow.com/repair-damaged-nails-after-acrylics/

Before we dive into how to repair damaged nails after acrylics, it’s important to understand what’s causing the damage in the first place. 

Acrylic nails can be tough on your natural nails, leaving them weak.

They might be peeling, splitting, breaking, or brittle. 

Here’s a quick rundown of the causes of weak nails after acrylics:

Chemical exposure: 

The harsh chemicals used in acrylic nails can strip your natural nails of their natural oils, causing them to become dry and brittle.

Frequent removal and application:

Each time you remove and reapply acrylics, you’re exposing your natural nails to more chemicals and wear and tear that can damage the nails.

Filing too much: 

filing to much https://nailhow.com/repair-damaged-nails-after-acrylics/

Over filing your nails can cause them to become thin and fragile, making them more susceptible to damage.

Now that you know the causes, it’s time to identify the symptoms of damaged nails. 

Here are a few things to look out for:

  • Peeling or splitting nails
  • Weak and brittle nails
  • Slow growth
  • White spots or lines on the nails

It’s important to note that different types of damage have different levels of severity, so it’s important to identify what type of damage you have so that you can choose the right treatment. 

With this understanding of the causes and symptoms of damaged nails, you’re one step closer to repairing them!

Now let’s get into how to repair damaged nails after acrylics.

11 ways to heal sore nails after acrylics

11 ways to heal sore nails https://nailhow.com/repair-damaged-nails-after-acrylics/

Here’s a list of 11 things you can try that will help to repair damaged nails after acrylics:

Cut them short: 

Cutting your nails short can help reduce the pressure on your nails and allow them to heal.

Stick to a natural shape: 

Avoid sharp or pointy nails that can easily break and opt for a rounded or squoval shape that is gentle on your nails.

Keep them moisturized: 

Use a nourishing cuticle oil or hand cream to keep your nails hydrated and healthy.

I can highly recommend vitamin E oil for healing weak damaged nails.

Eat a nail-friendly diet: 

Incorporate foods rich in biotin, iron, and vitamins B and C into your diet to promote healthy nail growth.

Avocado, brown rice, sweet potato, and flaxseed are all great for nails.

Take a nail supplement:

Nail supplements like biotin are a great way to provide your nails with the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.

Use nail strengthening products: 

Look for products that contain strengthening ingredients like keratin or biotin to help repair and reinforce your nails.

Get professional treatment: 

A manicure or pedicure that includes a strengthening treatment can help repair your damaged nails and promote growth.

Some salons also offer special systems like the IBX Nail Strengthening System to help nails recover.

Switch to regular polish: 

Avoid harsh chemicals by switching to regular nail polish instead of acrylics.

Use an orangewood stick to push cuticles back:

Metal cuticle pushers can be harsh on the nails. Use an orangewood stick to gently push them back instead while your nails are healing.

Stay away from e-files: 

E-files and nail drills can be harsh on your nails, causing further damage. Stick to traditional nail files until your nails have grown back stronger.

Let them grow out: 

Give your nails a long break (3 to 6 months) and let them grow out without any enhancements or treatments.

By following these 11 tips, you can give your damaged nails the time and care they need to heal and grow into strong, healthy nails.

What should I put on my nails after removing acrylics at home?

You’re on the right track to restoring your nails! Here are some recommended products to apply to your nails after removing acrylics at home:

Nail strengthener: 

Look for a nail strengthener that contains strengthening ingredients like keratin or biotin to help repair and reinforce your nails.

Cuticle oil: 

Apply a nourishing cuticle oil like Vitamin E or Jojoba to your cuticles and nails to hydrate and promote healthy growth.

Base coat: 

Apply a base coat to protect your nails and keep them strong. You should only do this if your nails are not overly damaged.

Nail polish: 

Switch to regular nail polish instead of acrylics to avoid harsh chemicals and give your nails a break.

By using these products and following the tips mentioned in the previous section, you’ll be well on your way to repairing your damaged nails and keeping them healthy.

How do you fix badly damaged nails from acrylics?

Don’t worry, with a little bit of TLC, your nails can be restored to their former glory! 

Here are some tips and tricks to help fix your badly damaged nails from acrylics:

  • Give your nails a break: Stop using acrylics and give your nails a break to allow them to heal and recover.
  • Trim and file: Trim your nails to a short length and file them to a natural shape, being careful not to file too aggressively.
  • Moisturize: Keep your nails and cuticles hydrated by applying a nourishing cuticle oil or hand cream regularly.
  • Nail-friendly diet: Incorporate foods that are high in vitamins and minerals like biotin, iron, and zinc into your diet to support nail health.
  • Nail supplements: Consider taking a nail supplement to provide your nails with the nutrients they need to grow and repair.
  • Let them grow out: Give your nails time to grow out and avoid filing or cutting them too much.

With a little patience and the right care, your badly damaged nails from acrylics will be back to their best in no time!

Can I paint my nails after removing acrylics?

Can I paint my nails after removing acrylics https://nailhow.com/repair-damaged-nails-after-acrylics/

Of course, you can!

In fact, painting your nails can be a great way to give them some extra TLC and protection. 

Just make sure to follow these tips for best results:

  • Wait for your nails to fully heal: Wait until your nails have fully recovered from the damage caused by acrylics before painting them.
  • Use a base coat: Apply a base coat to protect your nails and help the polish adhere better.
  • Go for regular polish: Opt for regular polish instead of acrylics to avoid harsh chemicals and give your nails a break.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid using polish removers that contain acetone or other harsh chemicals that can dry out your nails and cuticles.

By following these tips, you can paint your nails after removing acrylics and help keep them healthy and strong!

Can you get gel nails right after acrylic?

Well, you could technically get gel nails right after acrylics, but it’s not recommended. 

Acrylics can weaken the natural nails and make it easier for fungus or bacteria to enter, and applying gel nails could trap those harmful elements under the coating.

It’s best to give your natural nails a break and let them breathe for a bit before applying any new treatments. 

Plus, who wants to stress their nails out after a fresh set of acrylics, right? 

Give ’em some TLC, and they’ll thank you later.

Gel polish after a few days is fine.

Ridges in nails after acrylics

Ridges in nails after acrylics are a common problem for many people. 

These ridges can be caused by the removal of the acrylic nails, leading to dry, brittle, and damaged nails. 

But, don’t fret! There are a few simple steps you can take to help reduce ridges in your nails after acrylics.

Buffing is one of the simplest and most effective methods to reduce ridges in your nails. 

You can use a nail buffer to gently smooth out the ridges and even out the surface of your nails. 

It is important to be gentle and not over-buff as it can cause further damage to your nails.

Another way to reduce ridges in your nails is by using cuticle oil. 

Cuticle oil is a great moisturizer for your nails and helps to keep them healthy and hydrated. 

Simply apply a drop or two of cuticle oil to your nails and massage it into your cuticles and nails. 

Repeat this process daily to help reduce ridges in your nails and keep them healthy and hydrated.

How long does it take for nails to recover after acrylics?

Ah, the million-dollar question! 

How long it takes for your nails to recover after acrylics can vary depending on the individual and the state of their nails before the acrylics were applied.

Typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for your nails to fully recover after acrylics. 

During this time, your nails will be in a delicate state and will need some extra TLC to help them heal and grow back stronger.

It’s important to give your nails a break and avoid applying any new treatments or products that can damage them further. 

Nourish your nails with cuticle oil, and vitamin-rich products, and avoid using harsh chemicals.

The bottom line, every set of nails is different, but with a little patience and some extra care, you’ll have a set of strong, healthy nails in no time!

Why are my nails really thin after acrylics?

Thin nails after acrylics can be a common problem, but don’t worry, there’s usually a simple explanation for it.

Acrylic nails can weaken natural nails, making them more prone to breakage and damage. 

This, in turn, can lead to thinning of the nails. 

Additionally, the process of removing acrylic nails can also cause further damage, leading to even thinner nails.

Another factor that can contribute to thin nails after acrylics is a lack of proper hydration. 

Nails need moisture to stay strong and healthy, so it’s important to make sure they’re getting enough hydration.

Another reason why your nails may be thin after acrylics is over filing. 

When removing acrylic nails, it’s important to avoid over filing the natural nails, as this can cause damage to the delicate nail structure and lead to thinning.

Filing should be done gently and only as much as necessary to remove the acrylic.

Over filing can cause the natural nails to become weakened and more susceptible to breakage, leading to thinner nails. 

So, be gentle with your nails and avoid over filing to keep them healthy and strong.

So, there you have it! 

A few simple explanations for why your nails might be thin after acrylics. 

The good news is, with a little extra care and attention, you can help your nails recover and grow back stronger. 

Keep them hydrated, and nourished, and give them a break from any harsh treatments, and you’ll be on your way to a set of strong, healthy nails in no time!

Key takeaways:

In conclusion, it is not uncommon to experience nail pain after getting acrylics. 

There can be several reasons for this, including damage to the natural nail, irritation from the chemicals in the acrylic, and tight-fitting artificial nails. 

To avoid or alleviate nail pain after getting acrylics, it is important to take proper care of your natural nails, ensure that your acrylics are properly done, and seek advice from a professional.

By following these tips for how to repair damaged nails after acrylics, you can keep your nails healthy and pain-free even after getting acrylics.

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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.