The Impact of Nail Polishes and Acrylics on Nail Health: What You Must Know
- Pushpanjali
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
In today’s beauty-driven world, polished nails are often seen as a symbol of style, self-care, and sophistication. Nail polishes, gels, and acrylics are staples in many people's grooming routines. However, frequent use of these products can significantly impact the health of your natural nail. You can maintain the health and attractiveness of your nails by being aware of the science underlying nail production and how cosmetics harm them. Here you go!
Understanding nail anatomy
Keratin, a fibrous protein that is also present in your skin and hair, makes up the majority of your nails. The visible part of the nail is known as the nail plate, and it lies over the nail bed. Healthy nails are uniformly colored, smooth, and free of pits and grooves. Just like the rest of your body, your nails require proper care and nutrition to stay strong and beautiful.
How nail polishes affect nail health
Chemical exposure
Nail polishes contain various chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), which give the polish its smooth application, color, and durability. While many brands have shifted to “3-free,” “5-free,” or even “10-free” formulas that avoid these harsh ingredients, consistent use of regular polishes may still dry out the nail plate, leading to brittleness, discoloration, and peeling.
Acetone-based removers
Frequent use of acetone-based nail polish removers can further dehydrate the nails. Acetone strips away natural oils from both the nails and cuticles, leaving them more prone to splitting and breakage.
How acrylic nails and gels affect nail health
Gel manicures and acrylic nails have become quite popular due to their strength and beauty.However, their long-term use can have notable side effects:
1. Thinning of the nail
To apply acrylics or gels, the surface of the nail is often filed down. This not only thins the nail plate but also damages its protective layers. Over time, the natural nails can become soft, weak, and easily breakable.
2. UV exposure
Gel nails require curing under UV light, which poses a minor but real risk of skin aging and, potentially, skin cancer. While short-term exposure is unlikely to cause serious harm, cumulative exposure over years can increase the risk.
3. Risk of fungal and bacterial infections
If acrylic nails are not applied correctly or if they lift due to wear, moisture can get trapped between the natural and artificial nail layers. This creates a breeding ground for fungi and bacteria, leading to infections that require medical treatment.
Signs of damaged nails
Watch for these symptoms which may indicate damage from excessive use of polish or acrylics:
Peeling or splitting nails
Yellow discoloration
Ridges or indentations on the nail surface
Brittle, paper-thin nails
Pain or inflammation around the nail bed
Best practices to protecting nails
Maintaining healthy nails doesn’t mean giving up nail polish or acrylics altogether. Instead, follow these tips to minimize damage and preserve natural shine and strength.
1. Take nail breaks
Allow your nails to breathe. If you regularly wear polish or acrylics, take a break every few weeks to let your natural nails recover. Use this time to nourish them with strengthening treatments and oils.
2. Hydrate and moisturize
Hydration is key. Use cuticle oils containing ingredients like jojoba oil, vitamin E, and shea butter. These not only moisturize the nail and surrounding skin but also help maintain flexibility and reduce the risk of breakage.
3. Choose quality products
Opt for non-toxic nail polishes and removers that are free from harmful chemicals. Study about the toxic ingredient and look for labels.
4. Avoid peeling off polish or gels
Manually peeling off polish or gel can strip the top layers of your nail. Always use appropriate removal methods and tools to minimize trauma.
5. Feed vitamins and minerals
Nail “enamel” refers to the shiny, smooth appearance of healthy nails. Damage from harsh products can dull this surface, but with proper care, the shine can return. We all know the natural shine comes from within, therefore eat nail nutrients wisely. Nutrition plays a foundational role in maintaining strong and healthy nails. Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can manifest as nail problems. Check for the nutrients here;
Biotin (Vitamin B7)
Biotin is perhaps the most widely recognized vitamin for nail health. It plays a crucial role in keratin production. For those with brittle nails, taking a biotin supplement has been demonstrated to enhance nail thickness and minimize breakage and splitting.
Natural sources of biotin include:
Eggs (especially the yolk)
Nuts and seeds
Sweet potatoes
Spinach
Salmon
Iron
Iron deficiency can lead to spoon-shaped nails or nails that are brittle and concave. Make sure to consume enough iron-fortified cereals, legumes, leafy greens, and poultry.
Zinc
Your nails and other tissues need zinc to grow and heal. White patches or delayed nail development may result from a deficiency.
Vitamin C
This antioxidant is critical for collagen production, which supports the strength and elasticity of the nails and skin.
Vitamin A and E
These vitamins support cell regeneration and hydration, respectively, helping keep nails strong and preventing dryness.
Magnesium and calcium
Magnesium supports protein synthesis (including keratin), while calcium is important for structural strength.
6. Buff gently
To restore a natural shine and gradually level out ridges, use a fine-grit buffer. Doing this sparingly over-buffing can weaken the nail.
7. May use nail serums
Many nail serums contain keratin, peptides, and biotin, which can help repair the nail surface and promote growth. Apply them daily during your polish-free periods.
8. Maintain proper nail hygiene
Keep your nails trimmed, clean, and shaped to avoid snags and splits. Don’t forget to push back (not cut) cuticles to prevent infection and support nail health.
9. Use nail hardeners sparingly
While nail hardeners can offer temporary strength, they often contain formaldehyde and can make nails even more brittle over time. Use them cautiously and avoid long-term dependence.
Nail polishes, gels, and acrylics can enhance your appearance and allow for self-expression, but they come with risks if used without proper care. Awareness of potential damage, along with proactive steps such as nourishing your nails, choosing safer products, and supplementing your diet with nail-healthy nutrients like biotin, can help you enjoy beautiful nails without compromising their health.
Taking care of your nails from the inside out, and allowing for restorative breaks, ensures your nail beds remain strong, your cuticles stay intact, and your enamel shines naturally. After all, true beauty comes from a healthy foundation and that includes your nails.
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