The Ideal Nail Care Routine After Removing Artificial Nails

Removing artificial nails like acrylics, gel extensions, or dip powder can leave your natural nails feeling weak, thin, and sometimes brittle. Proper care and attention are essential to restore your nails to their healthiest state. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you take care of your nails after removing artificial enhancements.

1. Gently File and Shape Your Nails

After removing artificial nails, your natural nails may feel a bit rough or uneven. Start by gently filing the edges of your nails to shape them and prevent any splitting or snagging. Use a fine-grit file and avoid aggressive filing, especially if your nails feel weak.

- **Tip**: File in one direction rather than back and forth to minimize stress on the nail.

2. Buff the Surface (Sparingly)

If your nails feel uneven or have ridges from the artificial enhancements, you can lightly buff the surface of your nails. Be very gentle and don’t over-buff, as this can further weaken your already fragile nails. The goal is to smooth out any roughness without thinning the nail plate.

- **Tip**: Use a soft buffer with a high grit level (240 or above) for minimal abrasion.

3. Hydrate Your Nails and Cuticles

One of the most important steps in restoring your nails after artificial nails is hydration. Both the nail plate and surrounding skin (cuticles) can become dehydrated from the chemicals in nail enhancements and acetone during removal.

- Cuticle Oil: Apply cuticle oil at least twice a day to nourish and hydrate the area around your nails. Look for oils rich in vitamin E, jojoba, or almond oil to promote nail strength and flexibility.
 
- Hand Cream: Follow up with a hydrating hand cream to lock in moisture and keep your hands and nails soft.

- **DIY Tip**: You can also massage a natural oil like coconut oil or olive oil into your nails and cuticles if you don’t have cuticle oil on hand.

4. Strengthening Treatments

Since your nails might feel weak or fragile after removing artificial nails, using a strengthening treatment can help rebuild their structure. Nail strengtheners or treatments containing ingredients like keratin, biotin, or calcium can support nail growth and improve flexibility.

- **Tip**: Apply a strengthening treatment or nail hardener 1–2 times a week for the first few weeks after removing your artificial nails. Be mindful not to use hardeners too frequently, as overly hard nails can become brittle.

5. Give Your Nails a Polish Break

While it can be tempting to cover up weak nails with nail polish, giving your nails a break from polish (especially gel or acrylic) will allow them to breathe and recover naturally. Use this time to focus on hydration and strengthening.

- **Tip**: If you can’t resist applying polish, opt for breathable nail polish formulas that are free from harsh chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene.

6. Protect Your Nails

Your nails are especially vulnerable after removing artificial nails, so it’s essential to protect them from further damage.

- Wear Gloves: Use gloves when doing chores like washing dishes, cleaning, or working with chemicals to prevent your nails from getting exposed to water, cleaning products, and other irritants.
 
- Avoid Using Your Nails as Tools: Try not to use your nails for tasks like opening cans, peeling stickers, or scraping things. This can lead to breakage or further damage.

7. Trim Your Nails Regularly

While you may want long nails, it’s important to keep them trimmed short while they recover. This prevents breakage and allows your nails to grow out healthy and strong. As your nails regain strength, you can let them grow longer.

- **Tip**: Trim your nails every two weeks or as needed during the recovery period.

8. Nourish from Within

Healthy nails start from the inside. Ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and nutrients that support nail health:

- Biotin: Known for its role in promoting nail strength and growth, biotin is found in foods like eggs, nuts, and seeds. You can also consider taking a biotin supplement if your nails are particularly weak.
 
- Protein: Since nails are made of keratin (a type of protein), ensuring adequate protein intake in your diet can support nail growth.

- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your nails and cuticles hydrated and less prone to breakage.

9. Be Patient

It can take time for your natural nails to regain their full strength and health, especially if they’ve been covered by artificial enhancements for an extended period. Typically, it takes about 3 to 6 months for your nails to fully recover, depending on the condition of your nails and how well you care for them during the recovery phase.

10. Consult a Professional for Persistent Issues

If your nails remain weak, damaged, or show signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or discoloration), it’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist or nail technician. They can offer treatments or products specifically tailored to your nail health needs.

Removing artificial nails can leave your natural nails feeling fragile, but with the right care routine, you can restore them to a healthy state. Focus on hydration, nourishment, and gentle maintenance to help your nails grow back stronger and healthier. Remember, nail recovery is a gradual process, but with patience and consistent care, your nails will be back to their natural beauty in no time!