Question:
Can I harm my natural nails by wearing acrylic nails every day?No name / No state given
Answer:
Acrylic nails generally are safe and won't harm your natural nails. However, a serious problem that may result from acrylic nails is a nail infection.
Sometimes a gap develops between the acrylic nail and the natural nail — for example, if the acrylic nail is bumped or jarred, it may separate from the natural nail. This gap provides a moist, warm environment in which bacteria and fungi can grow. An infection may also occur if an acrylic nail is left in place for prolonged periods, or if the salon uses unsanitary tools to apply your nails. If an infection occurs, the natural nail may become thickened and discolored and should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Rarely, a person may have an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis) to components of acrylic nails or the adhesives used to apply them. This usually results in some redness, swelling and pain around the nail. If it's excessive or persists, consult a dermatologist.
The key to preventing infection and nail damage due to artificial nails is to choose a reputable, licensed nail salon.
| Choosing a safe nail salon — Questions you should ask |
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| Is the salon licensed? If the license isn't posted, ask to see it. |
| Are the nail technicians licensed? If the licenses aren't posted, ask to see them. |
| How are nail implements sanitized? Heat sterilization (autoclaving) is best. |
| Is there a pre-service scrub? Both the nail technician and the client should wash their hands with antimicrobial soap before nail work begins. |
| Is each customer given a fresh bowl of soapy water to soak his or her nails in, and is a new nail file used for each customer? Consider bringing your own nail file, since nail files can't be sterilized. |
| Is the facility neat and clean? |
| Is there a strong smell of fumes? If there is, it's a sign that the facility is poorly ventilated. |
Nail infection
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A nail infection can cause the nail to become thick or ragged and appear yellow, green, brown or black in color. An infected nail may even separate from the nail bed.
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Contact dermatitis
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Contact dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin resulting from direct contact with one of many irritants or allergens. The affected skin may become itchy, red and scaly.
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Updated: 01/29/2010
