Lifting acrylic nails are a common frustration for anyone who loves the look and durability of acrylics. That small gap between your natural nail and the acrylic can quickly turn into a bigger problem, leading to discomfort, bacteria buildup, and even nail damage. But don’t worry! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the causes of lifting, preventative measures, and step-by-step instructions on how to fix lifting acrylic nails at home.
Understanding Why Acrylic Nails Lift
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s crucial to understand why acrylic nails lift in the first place. Identifying the root cause will help you prevent it from happening again.
Inadequate Nail Preparation
Proper nail preparation is the foundation for long-lasting acrylics. If your natural nails aren’t properly prepped, the acrylic won’t adhere correctly. This is often the most common culprit.
The natural oils on your nails need to be completely removed. Without this, the acrylic will simply slide off over time, starting with lifting. This includes pushing back and removing the cuticle, buffing the nail surface to create texture, and dehydrating the nail plate.
Improper Acrylic Application
The acrylic-to-liquid ratio is critical. Too much liquid can create a weak mixture that doesn’t adhere well. Too much powder can result in a dry, brittle application that’s prone to lifting.
Uneven application, air bubbles, and acrylic touching the skin surrounding the nail can also lead to lifting. Precision and patience are key here.
Exposure to Water and Harsh Chemicals
Excessive exposure to water can weaken the bond between the acrylic and the natural nail. Water seeps in through the lifted areas, causing further separation and promoting bacteria growth.
Harsh chemicals found in cleaning products and some beauty products can also break down the acrylic and weaken its adhesion. Always wear gloves when cleaning or handling harsh substances.
Natural Nail Growth
As your natural nails grow, a gap will inevitably form at the cuticle area. This natural growth is often mistaken for lifting, but it’s simply the result of the nail growing out. Regular fill-ins are essential to address this.
Damage and Trauma
Accidental bumps, snags, and general wear and tear can cause the acrylic to lift. Being mindful of your hands and avoiding activities that put stress on your nails will help prevent this.
Underlying Nail Conditions
Sometimes, an underlying nail condition, such as a fungal infection, can cause lifting. If you suspect a nail infection, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice before applying or maintaining acrylic nails. Applying acrylics over an infected nail can worsen the condition.
Preventing Acrylic Nail Lifting
Prevention is always better than cure. By taking a few simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the chances of your acrylic nails lifting.
Thorough Nail Preparation
This is paramount. Start by gently pushing back your cuticles using a cuticle pusher. Then, use a cuticle remover to dissolve any dead skin. Buff the surface of your natural nails with a fine-grit buffer to remove shine and create texture for better adhesion. Finally, dehydrate your nails with a nail dehydrator to remove any remaining oils.
Proper Acrylic Application Techniques
Master the correct acrylic-to-liquid ratio. It should be a bead that’s neither too runny nor too dry. Apply the acrylic in thin, even layers, avoiding the skin around the nail. Eliminate air bubbles by patting the acrylic firmly into place. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and refine your technique.
Protective Measures
Wear gloves when doing dishes, cleaning, or handling any chemicals. Limit your hands’ exposure to water. Apply cuticle oil regularly to keep your nails and surrounding skin moisturized. This will help maintain the flexibility of your nails and prevent them from becoming brittle and prone to lifting.
Regular Maintenance
Schedule regular fill-ins every 2-3 weeks to address nail growth and prevent lifting. During fill-ins, the technician will file down the acrylic, fill in the gap at the cuticle, and rebalance the nail.
Avoid Trauma
Be mindful of your hands and nails. Avoid using your nails as tools to open things or pick at objects. Wear gloves when gardening or doing other activities that could put stress on your nails.
Fixing Lifting Acrylic Nails: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you notice lifting, don’t panic! Here’s how to fix it at home:
Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need the following:
- Nail clippers
- Nail file (100/180 grit)
- Buffer
- Cuticle pusher
- Nail dehydrator
- Acrylic liquid
- Acrylic powder
- Acrylic brush
- Nail primer
- Top coat
- Lint-free wipes
- Acetone (optional)
Prepare the Lifted Area
Gently file down the lifted area of the acrylic with a 180-grit nail file. Be careful not to file down to your natural nail. The goal is to smooth out the edge of the lifted acrylic and create a surface for the new acrylic to adhere to. If the lifting is extensive, you may need to carefully clip off the loose acrylic using nail clippers.
Clean and Dehydrate
Use a lint-free wipe soaked in nail dehydrator to clean the exposed natural nail and the surrounding acrylic. This will remove any oils or debris and ensure proper adhesion.
Apply Primer
Apply a thin coat of nail primer to the exposed natural nail. The primer acts as a bonding agent, helping the acrylic adhere to the nail. Let the primer dry completely before proceeding.
Apply Acrylic
Dip your acrylic brush into the acrylic liquid, then into the acrylic powder to create a bead. Apply the bead to the lifted area, blending it seamlessly with the existing acrylic. Use small, controlled strokes to shape and smooth the acrylic. Ensure there are no air bubbles.
File and Shape
Once the acrylic has dried completely, use a 100/180-grit nail file to shape the new acrylic and blend it with the existing acrylic. File the surface until it’s smooth and even. Be careful not to over-file, as this can weaken the acrylic.
Buff and Smooth
Use a buffer to smooth out any remaining imperfections and create a smooth, even surface. This will help the top coat adhere properly.
Apply Top Coat
Apply a generous coat of top coat to seal the acrylic and add shine. Be sure to cover the entire nail surface, including the edges.
Clean Up
Clean up any excess product around the cuticles with a lint-free wipe soaked in acetone (optional).
Repeat if Necessary
If the lifting was extensive, you may need to repeat the acrylic application process to achieve a smooth, even result.
When to Seek Professional Help
While you can often fix minor lifting at home, there are times when it’s best to seek professional help.
- Extensive Lifting: If the lifting is severe or affects a large portion of the nail, it’s best to see a professional nail technician. They have the expertise and tools to properly assess the situation and repair the damage.
- Nail Infections: If you suspect a nail infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or pus, see a doctor immediately. Do not attempt to fix the lifting yourself, as this could worsen the infection. A doctor can diagnose the infection and prescribe appropriate treatment.
- Severe Damage: If your natural nail is damaged or weakened, it’s best to consult a professional before attempting to fix the lifting. They can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.
- Unsure How to Proceed: If you’re unsure about any of the steps involved in fixing lifting acrylic nails, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional help.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best instructions, you might encounter some challenges when fixing lifting acrylic nails. Here are some solutions to common problems:
- Acrylic Not Adhering: Ensure your nails are properly prepped and dehydrated. Use a good-quality nail primer. Make sure the acrylic-to-liquid ratio is correct.
- Air Bubbles: Apply the acrylic in thin, even layers and pat it firmly into place. Use a high-quality acrylic brush.
- Uneven Surface: Take your time when filing and shaping the acrylic. Use a fine-grit buffer to smooth out any imperfections.
- Top Coat Not Adhering: Ensure the acrylic surface is smooth and clean before applying the top coat. Use a high-quality top coat.
- Product Runoff: Work in thin layers and allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next. Use a small, controlled brush.
Long-Term Care for Acrylic Nails
Once you’ve fixed the lifting and have beautiful, intact acrylic nails, it’s important to take good care of them to prevent future problems.
- Moisturize Regularly: Apply cuticle oil several times a day to keep your nails and surrounding skin moisturized.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Wear gloves when cleaning or handling harsh chemicals.
- Be Gentle: Avoid using your nails as tools and be mindful of potential sources of trauma.
- Schedule Regular Fill-ins: Maintain regular fill-in appointments to address nail growth and prevent lifting.
- Consider Gel Polish: Using gel polish on top of your acrylics can add an extra layer of protection and help prevent chipping and lifting.
Conclusion
Fixing lifting acrylic nails at home is possible with the right knowledge, tools, and techniques. By understanding the causes of lifting, taking preventative measures, and following the step-by-step guide, you can keep your acrylic nails looking beautiful and healthy. Remember, patience and practice are key. If you encounter any difficulties or suspect a nail infection, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Taking good care of your acrylic nails will ensure they last longer and keep your natural nails healthy.
Why are my acrylic nails lifting?
Acrylic nails lift for a variety of reasons, often stemming from improper preparation of the natural nail. Insufficient filing or buffing of the natural nail surface can leave behind oils and residue, preventing the acrylic from properly adhering. Additionally, neglecting to dehydrate the nail thoroughly before application is a common culprit. Other factors include using low-quality products, incorrect acrylic-to-liquid ratio, or applying the acrylic too close to the cuticle.
Environmental factors also play a significant role. Frequent exposure to water, harsh chemicals, or extreme temperature changes can weaken the bond between the acrylic and the natural nail, leading to lifting. Furthermore, if you have naturally oily nails, you may need to take extra precautions during the preparation stage to ensure optimal adhesion. Ignoring proper aftercare, such as wearing gloves when cleaning or using your nails as tools, can also contribute to premature lifting.
How can I prevent acrylic nails from lifting in the first place?
The key to preventing lifting lies in meticulous preparation. Begin by thoroughly sanitizing your hands and nail tools. Gently push back the cuticles and use a fine-grit file to remove the shine from the entire nail surface, paying close attention to the cuticle area and sidewalls. This roughens the surface, allowing the acrylic to grip better. Always dehydrate the nail plate with a quality nail dehydrator and follow with a primer to promote adhesion.
Using high-quality acrylic products and maintaining the correct liquid-to-powder ratio is crucial. Ensure that the acrylic application is smooth and even, avoiding air bubbles and thin spots. Do not apply acrylic directly onto the cuticle skin, as this can cause lifting as the nail grows. Consistent aftercare, including moisturizing the cuticles and wearing gloves during tasks that expose your hands to water and chemicals, will further prolong the life of your acrylics.
Can I fix a small lift at home, or should I always go to a professional?
Small lifts, particularly those at the cuticle line, can sometimes be carefully addressed at home. Start by gently pushing back the lifted area with a cuticle pusher. Use a very fine-grit file to smooth the edge of the lifting acrylic and the natural nail underneath. Cleanse the area with alcohol and apply a small amount of nail glue specifically designed for acrylic nails to reattach the lifted portion.
However, if the lifting is extensive, accompanied by pain, discoloration, or signs of infection, it’s crucial to seek professional help from a licensed nail technician. Attempting to fix significant lifting yourself could worsen the problem, potentially leading to damage to your natural nail or even infection. A professional can properly assess the situation, safely remove the lifting acrylic, and reapply a fresh set if desired.
What tools and products do I need to fix a lifted acrylic nail?
To safely address a minor lift at home, you’ll need a few essential tools and products. A cuticle pusher is necessary to gently separate the lifted acrylic from the natural nail. A very fine-grit nail file (at least 240 grit) will help smooth the edges without damaging the natural nail. Isopropyl alcohol is crucial for cleaning and disinfecting the area.
Nail glue specifically designed for acrylic nails is essential for reattaching the lifted portion. A bonder or primer can also be used to further promote adhesion. Finally, a cuticle oil will help hydrate and protect the surrounding skin after the repair. Make sure all tools are properly sanitized before use.
How do I properly remove a lifting acrylic nail without damaging my natural nail?
Never attempt to rip or force off a lifting acrylic nail, as this will undoubtedly damage your natural nail plate. The safest method involves soaking the nails in acetone. Pour pure acetone into a shallow dish or use acetone-soaked cotton balls wrapped in foil around each nail. Allow the nails to soak for 15-20 minutes, or until the acrylic softens and becomes easily removable.
Once the acrylic has softened, gently push it off with a cuticle pusher or wooden stick. If the acrylic is still resistant, soak for a few more minutes. After removing all the acrylic, gently buff the surface of the natural nails to smooth any remaining residue. Rehydrate your nails and cuticles with a nourishing oil or cream.
What are the signs of a nail infection under a lifted acrylic?
Several signs can indicate a potential nail infection beneath a lifted acrylic. Look for discoloration of the natural nail, such as green, yellow, brown, or black patches. Pay attention to any pain, swelling, or redness around the nail bed or cuticle. An unpleasant odor emanating from the nail is another common symptom.
The presence of pus or discharge indicates a serious infection requiring immediate medical attention. Nail separation from the nail bed (onycholysis) or thickening and distortion of the nail plate can also be signs of underlying issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, remove the acrylic nail immediately and consult a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Can certain medical conditions or medications make acrylic nails more prone to lifting?
Yes, certain medical conditions and medications can affect nail health and increase the likelihood of acrylic nail lifting. Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases can weaken the nails and impair adhesion. Medications such as blood thinners, chemotherapy drugs, and certain antibiotics can also negatively impact nail growth and strength.
Additionally, hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, menopause, or hormonal birth control can affect nail hydration and flexibility, making them more susceptible to lifting. It’s crucial to inform your nail technician about any underlying medical conditions or medications you are taking. They may need to adjust their techniques or recommend alternative nail enhancements to minimize the risk of lifting and potential complications.