Acrylic nails have become a popular fashion accessory for many women since they are an affordable way to enhance the look of their natural nails. However, acrylic nails can do more harm than good if they are not properly maintained. One common problem that many people experience with acrylic nails is that they can break and damage the natural nail underneath. If you find yourself in this situation, it is essential to know how to handle it properly. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on what to do when your acrylic nail breaks your real nail.
Understanding Acrylic Nails
Before we dive into the possible solutions, it is essential to understand what acrylic nails are and how they work. Acrylic nails are made of a mixture of liquid and powder that is applied to the natural nail, forming a hard protective layer. The mixture hardens when exposed to air and creates a durable, long-lasting layer that can be used to shape and enhance the natural nail.
Common Causes of Acrylic Nail Breakage
Acrylic nails can break for several reasons, including physical trauma, poor application, and exposure to chemicals. Physical trauma can occur when the nails are bumped or hit against hard surfaces, causing them to crack or break. Poor application can cause the acrylic to lift from the natural nail, leading to breakage. Exposure to chemicals such as cleaning products and nail polish removers can weaken the acrylic and cause it to break. It is essential to be careful when handling acrylic nails to prevent them from breaking and damaging the natural nail underneath.
If your acrylic nail breaks your real nail, the first thing to do is to assess the damage. If the break is severe, it is recommended to consult a medical professional. However, if the break is minor, you can apply first aid to reduce the risk of infection and further damage to the nail. The following steps can be taken:
Cleaning the Affected Area
The first step is to clean the affected area with soap and water. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated around the broken nail.
Application of Antiseptic
After cleaning the area, apply an antiseptic, such as hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol, to the affected area. This will help to prevent infection and reduce the risk of inflammation.
Protection of the Broken Nail
To prevent further damage to the nail, it is essential to protect the broken nail by covering it with a bandage or adhesive tape. This will provide support to the nail and prevent it from further breaking.
Treatment Options
There are several treatment options available to repair a broken nail. The following are some of the most effective treatments for a broken nail:
Nail Trimming and Filing
One of the easiest ways to repair a broken nail is by trimming and filing the nail. This will help to remove any loose or jagged edges and prevent the nail from further breaking.
Use of Nail Hardeners
Nail hardeners are products that are designed to strengthen and harden the natural nail. They can be applied directly to the nail to improve its strength and durability. This is a great option for people who have weak or brittle nails.
There are a variety of nail repair kits available that can be used to repair a broken nail. These kits typically include a nail glue, a nail file, and a brush. The nail glue is applied to the broken nail, and the nail file is used to shape and buff the nail.
Consultation with a Nail Technician
If the damage is severe or you are unsure of how to repair the nail, it is recommended to consult with a nail technician. A professional nail technician can assess the damage and provide effective treatment options to repair the nail.
