How To Relieve Pain From Acrylic Nails? This is a common question I often asked. As a nail technician, I’ve seen countless clients come in for acrylic nails, and I know firsthand that they can be a stunning addition to any look.
However, it’s not uncommon for clients to experience pain and discomfort after getting them done. In fact, I remember the first time I got acrylics, I felt like I was learning to walk again because my nails were so sore and sensitive.
But fear not!
In this article, I’ll be sharing some tips on how to relieve pain from acrylic nails so you can enjoy your fabulous manicure without any discomfort. And to make sure I’m giving you the best advice, I reached out to celebrity manicurist Gina Edwards for her expert opinion. Let’s get into it!
Contents
First, What Cause of Pain from Acrylic Nails?
So, why your Acrylic Nails hurt? There are 4 big reasons I found. But like, I mean there could be other stuff too, but let’s just focus on the big 4 for now, ya know? And hey, I’ll give you the deets on the other stuff later.
#1: Improper application techniques
When acrylic nails are not applied correctly, they can put pressure on your natural nail bed, leading to discomfort and pain. This can happen if the nail technician files your natural nails too aggressively, applies too much pressure while buffing, or doesn’t use the right amount of adhesive.
#2: Allergic reactions to acrylic material
Some people may be allergic to the chemicals used in acrylic nails, such as formaldehyde or toluene. This can cause redness, itching, and swelling around the nails, and in severe cases, can lead to blisters and other skin problems.
#3: Incorrect removal process
Acrylic nails need to be removed carefully, or they can damage your natural nails and cause pain. If the nails are peeled off or removed too aggressively, the top layer of your natural nails can come off, causing sensitivity and discomfort.
#4: Infection or injury
If acrylic nails are not properly maintained, they can trap bacteria and moisture under the nails, leading to infections. Additionally, if the nails are too long or thick, they can get caught on things and cause injury or pain.
#5: Other factors
Besides the four main reasons we talked about earlier, there are some other things that can totally make your acrylic nails hurt. Like, if the person putting them on files your natural nails too much, it can make them feel weak and achy.
And if they don’t prep your cuticles right, that can totally cause pain and discomfort around your nails.
Plus, if your natural nails are already thin and weak, they can be more sensitive to the acrylic nails. The acrylic nails themselves can also be a problem if they shrink or get too tight, or if they’re too thick, long, or pointy.
Oh, and using an acid nail primer or putting too much pressure during the application process can also make your nails hurt. So, yeah, if your acrylic nails are causing you pain, it’s important to think about all these things and talk to your nail technician about what you can do to feel better.
Explore more: Why Are My Nails Soft And Bendy?
How To Relieve Pain From Acrylic Nails?
- Soak in warm water: Soaking your nails in warm water for 15-20 minutes can help to relieve pain and discomfort. You can add Epsom salt or essential oils to the water for added relaxation and relief.
- Apply ice or a cold compress: Applying ice or a cold compress to the affected area can help to reduce inflammation and numb the pain.
- Use pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
- Keep your nails clean and dry: Keeping your nails clean and dry can help to prevent infection and further irritation.
- Avoid tight-fitting clothes and accessories: Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes and accessories that can put pressure on your nails and cause additional pain and discomfort.
- Consult a professional: If the pain persists or becomes unbearable, it’s best to consult with a professional nail technician or healthcare provider for further guidance and treatment.
How To Relieve Pain From Acrylic Nails?
| Reasons why acrylic nails hurt | How to relieve pain |
|---|---|
| Improper application techniques | Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes |
| Allergic reactions to acrylic material | Remove the acrylic nails and see a doctor if necessary |
| Incorrect removal process | Apply cuticle oil and moisturizer regularly to promote healing |
| Infection or injury | Apply a warm compress to the affected area and see a doctor if necessary |
| Too much filing was done to the natural nails | Soak your nails in warm soapy water mixed with Epsom salt |
| The cuticles were not prepped correctly | Apply cuticle oil regularly to promote healing |
| Natural nails were too thin & weak | Use a strengthening nail treatment and avoid heavy pressure on nails |
| The acrylic nails are shrinking & tightening | Remove the acrylic nails and see a doctor if necessary |
| The acrylic nails are too thick | File down the thickness of the acrylic nails |
| The acrylic nails are too long | File down the length of the acrylic nails |
| The acrylic nails have a pointy tip | File down the pointy tip of the acrylic nails |
| An acid nail primer was used | Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes and see a doctor if necessary |
| Too much force was used | Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes and see a doctor if necessary |
One important aspect of maintenance is keeping your acrylic nails clean and dry. Think about it – if you let dirt and moisture accumulate on your nails, it can cause irritation, pain, and even infection. Yikes! So make sure to regularly clean and dry your nails, and avoid using them as tools (like to open soda cans or scratch off stickers).
Now, let’s talk about the importance of going to a professional nail technician. Sure, you could save a few bucks by doing your own acrylic nails at home, but that’s like trying to fix your car engine without any training or experience. You wouldn’t do that, right? So why risk the health of your nails by doing them yourself? A professional nail technician can properly apply and maintain your acrylic nails, reducing the risk of pain and discomfort.
Choosing high-quality products for your acrylic nails is also crucial in preventing pain and discomfort. Think of it like buying shoes – you wouldn’t buy cheap, uncomfortable shoes and expect to walk pain-free all day, would you? So invest in high-grade acrylic powders and liquids to ensure the best possible outcome for your nails.
And last but not least, taking breaks from acrylic nails is essential in preventing pain and discomfort. Just like your car needs rest and maintenance, so do your nails. Wearing acrylic nails all the time can put strain on your natural nails, leading to pain and discomfort. So take a break between applications to let your natural nails breathe and recover.
Read more: How to clean nail filer?
FAQs
How long will my nails hurt after getting acrylics?
The duration of pain after getting acrylic nails varies from person to person and depends on several factors such as the skill level of the technician, the sensitivity of the person’s natural nails, and the maintenance of the acrylic nails. However, typically, any discomfort or pain should subside within 2-3 days after getting acrylic nails. If the pain persists beyond this timeframe, it may be a sign of an underlying issue, such as an infection or an allergic reaction.
How do I know if my acrylic nail is infected?
Signs of an infected acrylic nail include redness, swelling, pain, pus, and an unpleasant odor.
What if my acrylic nail hurts?
If your acrylic nail hurts, it could be due to improper application, an allergic reaction, incorrect removal process, or infection. To relieve the pain, you can soak your nails in warm soapy water mixed with Epsom salt, apply ice or a cold compress, or take pain relievers. If the pain persists or you notice any signs of infection, seek medical attention.
Wrap Up
To sum up, acrylic nails may lead to pain and discomfort due to various reasons, but there are effective remedies available. It is crucial to maintain your acrylic nails properly and inform your nail technician if you encounter any discomfort or pain. Additionally, if you have a fondness for nails, you may explore other articles by Mas Nail Art.
