Acrylic nails: Can they harm your natural nails?

Can I harm my natural nails by wearing acrylic nails every day?

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Mayo Clinic dermatologist Lawrence Gibson, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

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	Nail infection
	Contact dermatitis

Acrylic nails generally are safe and won't harm your natural nails. However, some people who wear acrylic nails may notice a slight discoloration or coarsening of their natural nails. A more 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 and peeling of the skin around the nail. If peeling is excessive or persists despite the use of moisturizer on the affected skin, 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
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. But chemical sterilization also is allowed.
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 their nails in and is a new nail file used for each customer?
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.