Putting Acrylic Nails on Damaged Nails + #3 Helpful Tips!

Any savvy nail user will, at one point, encounter acrylic nails. They are exceptional. Easy to apply, and with many different colors and designs available. However, there are various concerns that the average nail product user might ask.

So, what is involved in putting acrylic nails on damaged nails?

We recommend you avoid putting acrylic nails on damaged nails. That is because the acrylics will cover your nail bed, which can compromise the healing process. Instead, wait for your nail to heal entirely before using the acrylics again. 

What are the Dangers of Putting Acrylic Nails on Damaged Nails?

There are various risks of using acrylics on a damaged nail which can include:

  • It can be prone to bacterial infections. The acrylics can sometimes harbor dirt, and bacteria, which are unhealthy for the nails. The bacteria can sometimes seep through the acrylics or nail bed because of the damage.
  • Inflicts pressure on the nail structure. The nail bed is prone to high-impact forces, including the pressure exerted by acrylic nails. The weight of the acrylics can cause the nail to stop healing. 
  • Permanent nail damage. Even if rare, the incorrect use of acrylic nail products can cause long-term damage to your nails. The damage can be significant when the nail damage has been major. You might even encounter issues like ridges in nails after acrylics. 

PRO TIP! There are no fake nails that don’t damage your real nails. Instead, your nail care and maintenance habits will make or break your nails over time. 

How to Heal Damaged Nails After Acrylics

There are various of healing damaged nails after acrylics. It requires an informed step-by-step process and the correct products. Here is what we recommend:

Recommended Items 

Here are the items you need for healing damaged nails after acrylics:

ProductDescriptionLink
Nail care kitIt contains resources like a file, nail cutter and buffing tool.Manicure Set Nail Clippers Pedicure Kit 
Nail kit disinfectant containerUse this to clean your nail care tools.JJ CARE Disinfectant Jar
Acetone/disinfectantFor the cleaning processSuper Nail Pure Acetone Polish Remover
Methylated spiritA cleaning and disinfectant alternative.N/A
GlovesFor holding your cleaning tools and products.Med PRIDE NitriPride Nitrile-Vinyl Blend Exam Gloves
Cotton padsFor performing the cleaning process. Amazon Basics Cotton Rounds
Nail moisturizer conditionerFor strengthening and improving your nail condition. It is the product you put in your nails after using acrylics.CND SolarOil Nail & Cuticle Care

Tip #1. Use a Nail Disinfectant

One of the most crucial resources you need for correcting damaged nails is a disinfectant. It helps, primarily when the damage has caused a wound or significant damage to the nail structure. 

You also use disinfectant to help clean the items you use for cleaning your nails. You may also need some cotton pads to help with the disinfectant application.

Tip #2. Use a Nail Conditioner

You also have to use a nail conditioner or strengthening product. It’s particularly important when the damage to your nail structure has been significant. 

Ensure you condition your nails daily after using the nail conditioner or strengthener. Fortunately, most products in this category contain organic and health products for your nail.

Tip #3. Keep Your Nails Bare 

While you will likely encounter products you can use when you have damaged nails, you must avoid them at all costs. Why do we say this?

Well, it’s because any layer you set over damaged nails increases the frequency of poor healing results. These products also weaken the structure of your nails over time, so you have to be cautious at all costs!

PRO TIP! We recommend you look at this video on how to fix damaged nail bed. Link: The Basics | Repairing a Damaged Nail Bed

How to Use Acrylics Correctly So It Doesn’t Damage Your Nails

Source: Freepik

There is a step-by-step process involved in using acrylic products correctly. Here is what we recommend: 

  1. Get the right resources for applying acrylics (we have outlined some suggestions for you above!).
  2. Prep your nails for the acrylic process. You might require sanding if your nails are overly smooth or damaged. 
  3. Clean your nails using the acetone pads. 
  4. Apply the base coat, after mixing your acrylic polish.
  5. Set the acrylics on your nails.
  6. Apply a top coat.
  7. Let your nails sit for a few minutes, and then shape them to your liking. 

PRO TIP! So, here is another helpful video on how to not damage nails with acrylics. Link: How to properly remove acrylic nails at home | No Acetone and No Damage| GwenDoll

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is It Safe to Put Acrylic on Damaged Nails?

No, it’s not safe to put acrylic on damaged nails. That is because acrylics can easily increase the damage level that occurs to your nail. It might also make it prone to issues like dirt and bacteria. The same applies to using polygel on damaged nails.

Can I Get My Nails Done With a Damaged Nail?

No, it’s impossible to have your nails done with a damaged nail. That is because getting your nails done with products like gel or acrylic can lead to more damage. The only nail care process you should get is for hygiene or first aid procedures.

How Do You Do Acrylics With Damaged Nails?

There is no way to do acrylics with damaged nails. The term damaged indicates your nail requires maintenance or healing time first. You have to be patient and use the right resources for this process. 

How Can I Cover My Damaged Nails?

A disinfected and breathable medical sheath is the best way to cover your damaged nails. Ensure you remove this cover at least three times a day to help ensure your nails exist in the best possible hygiene conditions. 

How Long Should I Wait to Get Acrylic Nails Again?

You should wait up to two weeks to get acrylic nails again. The frequency depends on factors like your nail health, personal preferences, and the results you expect. It also depends on the damage level on your nails. 

Can You Get Acrylics on Thin Nails?

While possible, we recommend you avoid acrylics if you have thin nails. That is because the acrylics will implement pressure on your nails, thus making them prone to damage. We recommend you strengthen your nails first. 

Can You Put Fake Nails on Missing Toenails?

No, placing a fake nail on a missing toenail is impossible. That is because the fake nail will compromise your nail’s ability to develop a new toenail. We recommend you avoid it all costs. 

You must avoid working your nails when it has any form of damage. And this includes using acrylics!! Avoid them at all costs or up until your nails recover. The guide above should set you in the right direction!

Katharyn Riedel

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