Acrylic Nails: Why They Hurt and How to Prevent It

Causes of Acrylic Nail Pain

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those who want strong, long-lasting nails. However, they can sometimes cause pain. Here are 12 of the most common causes of acrylic nail pain:

Snagging

One of the most common causes of acrylic nail pain is snagging the nail. This can happen on anything from clothing to furniture. When the nail is snagged, it can cause the acrylic to lift from the natural nail, which can lead to pain and discomfort.

Trauma

Another common cause of acrylic nail pain is trauma. This can happen from accidentally hitting the nail on something or from using the nails as tools. Trauma can cause the acrylic to crack or break, which can also lead to pain.

Infection

If the natural nail underneath the acrylic becomes infected, it can cause pain. This can happen from bacteria or fungus entering the nail bed through a crack or break in the acrylic.

Allergic reaction

Some people may be allergic to the chemicals used in acrylic nails. This can cause redness, swelling, and itching around the nails. In severe cases, it can even lead to blistering and peeling of the skin.

Poor application

If the acrylic nails are not applied properly, it can cause pain. This can happen if the nails are too thick, too thin, or if they are not shaped correctly.

How to Treat Acrylic Nail Pain

If you are experiencing pain from your acrylic nails, there are a few things you can do to treat it:

Remove the acrylic nails

If the pain is severe, you may need to remove the acrylic nails. This can be done by a nail technician or by using a nail polish remover that contains acetone.

Soak the nails in warm water

Soaking the nails in warm water can help to relieve pain and inflammation. You can add a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender or tea tree oil, to the water for added benefits.

Apply a cold compress

Applying a cold compress to the nails can help to reduce pain and swelling.

Take over-the-counter pain medication

If the pain is mild, you may be able to take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

How to Prevent Acrylic Nail Pain

There are a few things you can do to prevent acrylic nail pain:

Be gentle with your nails

Avoid snagging or traumatizing your acrylic nails. This means being careful when you are doing things like opening cans or typing on a keyboard.

Keep your nails short

Shorter nails are less likely to snag or break.

Get regular fills

Regular fills will help to keep your acrylic nails in good condition and prevent them from becoming too thick or thin.

Choose a qualified nail technician

When you are getting acrylic nails, it is important to choose a qualified nail technician who is experienced in applying acrylic nails. This will help to ensure that your nails are applied properly and that you are less likely to experience pain.

Conclusion

Acrylic nails can be a beautiful and convenient way to have long, strong nails. However, it is important to be aware of the potential for pain and to take steps to prevent it. By following the tips in this article, you can help to ensure that your acrylic nails are a pain-free experience.