Artificial Nails

Artificial nails are quite popular and usually are OK for adults if you’re careful. If your child is begging for artificial nails, tell her to wait until she’s older. The children’s versions featuring cartoon characters are OK for fun and don’t last very long or hurt nails. But the more permanent versions use chemicals and materials that can cause allergic reactions and nail damage.

There are many types of artificial nails, including:

• Acrylic nails
• Gel nails
• Press-on nails
• Wrap nails
• Nail tips

There are plusses and minuses to all of them. Some you can do yourself at home, while others require a trip to the nail salon. Some are quite expensive. And they require a lot of upkeep. For instance, they have to be replaced often.

Artificial nails can cause problems, including:

• Allergic reactions – Chemicals used to apply artificial nails can cause an itchy rash near the nails, as well as any part of the body the nail touches.
• Infections – Artificial nails trap moisture, which can allow fungus and other germs to grow and lead to an infection. In fact, many health care facilities don’t allow their workers to wear artificial nails because they can spread infections to patients.
• Nail damage – Some of the materials or processes used for artificial nails can weaken, thin or damage your real nails. Risks can range from damaging the root of the nail to causing the nail to separate from the nail bed. And because they are so hard, artificial nails don’t bend easily. They can catch on things, and rip off, taking your natural nail with them.

If you really want artificial nails, here are some guidelines:

• Go to a salon that follows strict cleanliness standards.
• Don’t get them if you get fungal infections or have brittle nails.
• Apply one nail first to make sure you don’t have a bad reaction.
• Prevent infection by dipping a loose artificial nail in rubbing alcohol.
• Don’t use regular glue on the nails
• Don’t try to repair a damaged nail yourself – see a nail professional.
• Don’t bandage an artificial nail; this traps moisture and can lead to infection.
• Give your nails a break from time to time. Don’t wear artificial nails continuously for months on end.
• See a dermatologist if you develop an allergic reaction or infection.

Next: Nail Biting