Have you ever wondered if your nails need a break from nail polish to “breathe”? It’s a common misconception that nails require periods of nakedness to stay healthy. Let’s discuss more about this belief and determine if your nails really need a break.
The Myth of Nail Breathing
The idea that nails need to “breathe” stems from the belief that they are living tissue that requires oxygen to stay healthy. However, nails are actually composed of non-living keratin protein, similar to hair. Unlike our skin, which has pores for breathing, nails do not have the ability to absorb oxygen or release carbon dioxide.
Nail polish acts as a protective barrier for your nails, shielding them from environmental damage and preventing moisture loss. It can also provide strength and durability, reducing the risk of breakage and splitting. However, prolonged and frequent use of nail polish, especially those containing harsh chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene, can cause dryness, brittleness, and discoloration. That’s why at PURE NAILS we use The Gel Bottle, a cruelty free and vegan nail polish brand, because your nail health is our priority!
Do Nails Need a Break?
While it’s true that constantly wearing nail polish without giving your nails a break can potentially lead to issues like dehydration and weakening, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that nails need time without polish to “breathe.” In fact, going polish-free for extended periods may not necessarily benefit your nails and could expose them to other forms of damage, such as excessive moisture or trauma.
We create our own PURE NAILS lotion, cuticle oil, foot scrub, and foot mask so we know what ingredients are put into our products! We also use a cruelty free and vegan nail polish brand for your nail health!
Practice Proper Nail Care
Keep your nails clean and dry, and avoid using them as tools for tasks like opening cans or peeling off stickers, which can cause damage. Instead use scissors or keys as tools to open items instead of your nails.
Moisturize Regularly
Hydrate your nails and cuticles with our very own PURE NAILS cuticle oil to prevent dryness and brittleness.
The idea that nails need to “breathe” by going polish-free is a myth. While it’s essential to practice proper nail care and give your nails occasional breaks between manicures, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that nails require periods of nakedness. By choosing quality products, practicing proper nail care, and giving your nails the attention they deserve, you can maintain healthy and beautiful nails without sacrificing your favorite polish. Remember, healthy nails are happy nails!
Call or text 608-515-4775 or book online to schedule your nail appointment today!
In short, the answer is no. But there are caveats. Nails don't need surface access to air because they get oxygen and nutrients from your blood. Keeping nails hydrated is important if yours are prone to breakage, and a pause in polishing to moisturize would help.
While it's true that constantly wearing nail polish without giving your nails a break can potentially lead to issues like dehydration and weakening, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that nails need time without polish to “breathe.” In fact, going polish-free for extended periods may not necessarily benefit ...
That being said, harsh ingredients such as toluene, formaldehyde and DBP in some nail polish formulas can cause your nails to become weak, which can turn your nails from long and strong to dry and prone to breakage.
Some people use a layer of clear nail polish to protect cracked nails. To prevent more splits, wear cotton-lined rubber gloves when your hands are in water. Gently file down any nail snags or uneven edges so they don't lead to more cracks.
"Leaving your nail polish on for too long can dry out the nails, leaving them brittle," says Dr. Curry. "Thin, brittle nails pose a health hazard because the nail is a barrier to keep out bacteria and fungus."
Choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails.
While gel nails can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, they're more flexible than acrylic nails. This means your own nails are less likely to crack. You'll want to ask for gel nails that soak off rather than ones that must be filed off.
Not having enough biotin may cause weak nails. Taking a biotin supplement daily for at least six months may increase nail thickness. A deficiency in B vitamins, calcium, iron, or fatty acids. If you have any of these deficiencies, try adding a multivitamin to your regimen.
In short, the answer is no. But there are caveats. Nails don't need surface access to air because they get oxygen and nutrients from your blood. Keeping nails hydrated is important if yours are prone to breakage, and a pause in polishing to moisturize would help.
While wearing nail polish all the time won't stop your nails from growing, it does damage your nail integrity. Even with blood supply, nails do still need air to “breathe”. That's why a break from nail polish every few weeks is a must. For keratin granulation, 3 to 4 weeks will be enough time to give your nails a rest.
Unlike acrylic nails that use liquid monomer and polymer powder, gel nails cure under UV or LED light for 30-60 seconds. One of the main reasons gel nails are considered a healthier option is their flexibility. The gel formula allows the nails to bend and move more naturally, reducing the risk of breakage and chipping.
5 signs from your nails that you should take a break from polish
Thin, flimsy nails. The truth is that regular manicures, no matter how high quality, can dehydrate your nails and actually begin to thin the nail bed. ...
Discoloration. Next, let's talk about discoloration. ...
It's not a good idea to let damage build up. A tell-tale sign that it's time for a break from acrylics is when your natural nail is no longer bright pink and smooth. Talk to your manicurist and ask their professional opinion too — then you can decide whether your nails need a hiatus every few weeks or months.
Without the glossy distraction, at first it felt like there was a giant spotlight on my finger flaws. My unflattering nail ridges, uneven half-moons, craggy cuticles, and brutally brittle, weak nails glared back at me.
Introduction: My name is Jeremiah Abshire, I am a outstanding, kind, clever, hilarious, curious, hilarious, outstanding person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
We notice you're using an ad blocker
Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you.
