So You Want to Get Acrylic Nails?
A quick beginner’s guide to fake nail care
By Kate Lawless, Contributing Writer
This year, I got my first set of acrylic gel nails. I’d been eyeing my roommate’s nails for the past three years, wanting to try it them out myself. However, as someone on a college budget and no desire to damage my natural nails, I was nervous about taking the leap and getting a set.
There are plenty of reasons to be wary of getting fake nails, so I made sure to do research online and ask both my roommate and the nail technician all of my questions. Just how damaging can acrylic nails be? Is there a risk of infection? How do I do everyday activities without poking my eye out or damaging my natural nails?
When I finally got my nails done, I found them to be incredibly sturdy. But the possibility of ripping them off still lingered, and with that, the possibility of damaging my natural nail. Additionally, I learned that if you trap dirt or moisture between the natural nail and the acrylic nail, you risk the possibility of contracting an infection.
Most acrylic nail care is common sense. Generally, being careful not to bend the nail backward and making sure they don’t get caught on clothes or anything else will keep them safe.
Being realistic with yourself about what length you can maintain is also a great preventative measure. I was initially a little too ambitious with my nail length and could barely type out my assignments or put in my contacts. Starting with shorter acrylics at first will allow you to get used to them, and it’s a lot less likely that you will accidentally rip them off.
As for taking care of the natural nail underneath, drinking lots of water and eating foods high in protein, vitamin B or vitamin E will help keep your nails healthy and growing strong.
It can also be helpful to look into taking a daily biotin supplement, which can easily be found at most local pharmacies. Lastly, applying nail oil containing the aforementioned vitamins to your cuticle area will strengthen the root of your nail, encouraging nail growth and strength.
Acrylics generally last two to three weeks before they grow out to the point where they need a fill. If you decide acrylics aren’t for you before then, don’t try to take them off at home—you run the risk of ripping off your natural nail or encountering other issues. Take the time to go back to the salon and get them professionally removed, if needed.
I personally love getting my nails done. It’s a great way for me and my roommate to get off campus and do something for ourselves. Yes, it may seem superficial to some, but it’s a nice break from our regular routines—something we all definitely need for the finals that are looming ahead.