Why Do My Acrylic Nails Keep Breaking?

Are you tired of dealing with the frustration of constantly breaking acrylic nails? We understand how disheartening it can be to invest time and money into maintaining beautiful nails, only to have them break unexpectedly.

You might be thinking-

“Why do my acrylic nails keep breaking?” The key reason acrylic nails may keep breaking is improper nail application or excessive force on the nails.

Keep reading to discover the root causes and effective solutions to ensure your acrylic nails stay flawless and resilient.

Say goodbye to nail breakage woes as we unravel the mysteries behind this common dilemma.

How to Identify the Acrylic Nail Break?

Identifying a broken acrylic nail is usually quite noticeable. Look for some common signs to identify:

Visible Damage:

Examine your acrylic nails closely to check for any visible breaks or cracks. Look for a clear separation or fracture along the length or near the tip of the nail.

Uneven Length:

If one of your acrylic nails is suddenly shorter than the others, it could be an indication of a break. Compare the length of all your nails to identify any discrepancies.

Pain or Sensitivity:

A broken acrylic nail can cause discomfort or pain, especially if the break extends close to the natural nail or exposes the underlying nail bed. You may experience sensitivity when pressure is applied or when the nail comes into contact with objects.

Lifting or Separation:

A broken acrylic nail may start to lift or separate from the natural nail bed. If you notice a gap forming between the acrylic nail and your natural nail, it could be a sign of a break.

Changes in Appearance:

A broken acrylic nail may have a noticeable change in appearance, such as a jagged edge, rough surface, or exposed layers of the natural nail. It may also appear discolored if moisture or debris has accumulated in the break.

If you suspect a break in your acrylic nail, it’s important to address it promptly. Broken acrylic nails can be uncomfortable, and if left untreated, they may lead to further damage or infection. Contact your nail technician or salon for advice on how to proceed and get the necessary repairs or maintenance done.

Why Do My Acrylic Nails Keep Breaking?

There can be several reasons why your acrylic nails keep breaking. Here are some possible causes:

Improper application:

If the acrylic nails are not applied correctly, such as using too much or too little acrylic, or not properly adhering them to your natural nails, they may be more prone to breakage.

Weak natural nails:

If your natural nails are weak, thin, or brittle, they may not provide a strong foundation for the acrylic nails. This can make them more susceptible to breaking.

Excessive nail length:

Acrylic nails that are excessively long can put additional stress on the nail tips, making them more likely to break, especially if they come into contact with hard surfaces.

Rough handling:

Engaging in activities that involve a lot of manual labor or rough handling can increase the likelihood of acrylic nails breaking. Regularly exposing your nails to water without protection can also weaken them.

Lack of maintenance:

Neglecting proper nail care can lead to weakened acrylic nails. Failing to maintain regular appointments for nail fills or infills can cause the nails to grow out, resulting in increased stress on the acrylic and potential breakage.

Harsh chemicals:

Frequent exposure to harsh chemicals, such as cleaning agents or acetone-based nail polish removers, can weaken and damage the acrylic nails, making them more prone to breakage.

Poor quality products:

Using low-quality acrylic products or nail adhesives can compromise the durability and strength of your acrylic nails, increasing the chances of breakage.

Nutritional deficiencies:

A lack of essential nutrients, particularly vitamins and minerals like biotin, calcium, and iron, can negatively impact the strength and health of your natural nails, which in turn can affect the durability of the acrylic overlays.

Allergic reactions:

Some individuals may have allergic reactions to the chemicals present in acrylic products, which can lead to nail damage, thinning, or breakage.

Medical conditions:

Certain underlying health conditions, such as thyroid disorders or hormonal imbalances, can cause changes in nail health and make them more prone to breakage.

How Do I Keep My Acrylic Nails from Breaking?

To keep your acrylic nails from breaking, there are several things you can do to promote their strength and longevity. Have a look at some tips to help you maintain your acrylic nails:

Choose a reputable nail technician:

Find an experienced and skilled nail technician who uses high-quality products. Proper application and good product quality are essential for durable acrylic nails.

Choose quality products:

 Invest in high-quality acrylic nail products, including nail primers, bonding agents, and topcoats. Using reputable brands and good-quality products can enhance the durability and strength of your acrylic nails.

Optimal nail length:

Consider the length of your nails. Longer acrylic nails are more prone to breakage. If you engage in activities that may put stress on your nails, like sports or manual work, it’s advisable to keep them at a moderate length.

Avoid excessive force:

Be mindful of how you use your hands and avoid applying excessive force or pressure on your acrylic nails. Activities such as opening cans, scratching surfaces, or using them as tools can weaken or damage the nails.

Moisturize your nails and cuticles:

Hydrated nails and cuticles are less likely to become brittle and break. Apply cuticle oil or moisturizer regularly to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated. Avoid exposing your nails to harsh chemicals, such as acetone or strong detergents, as they can dry out the nails.

Wear protective gloves:

When engaging in household chores, cleaning, or using harsh chemicals, wear protective gloves. Acrylic nails are not invincible and can be affected by chemicals, which may lead to breakage or damage.

Moisturize your cuticles and nails:

Dry and brittle nails are more likely to break. Regularly moisturize your cuticles and nails with cuticle oil or a moisturizing nail cream to keep them hydrated and flexible.

Avoid excessive exposure to water:

Extended periods of water exposure can weaken the adhesion between your natural nails and the acrylics. Whenever possible, wear gloves when submerging your hands in water for prolonged periods, such as during dishwashing or swimming.

Be cautious with acetone:

While acetone is commonly used to remove acrylic nails, excessive exposure to it can weaken the nails. If you need to remove the polish or make minor repairs, consider using non-acetone removers or seeking professional assistance.

Regular maintenance:

Schedule regular appointments with your nail technician for maintenance and repairs. They can fill in any gaps, fix lifting, or make necessary adjustments to keep your acrylic nails in good condition.

Avoid picking or biting your nails:

Habitual picking or biting can weaken the acrylics and cause them to break. If you feel the urge to bite or pick at your nails, consider using a bitter-tasting nail polish or adopt alternative stress-relief techniques.

Be mindful of temperature changes:

Extreme temperature changes can cause acrylic nails to expand or contract, potentially leading to breakage. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold, such as hot water, saunas, or freezing temperatures.

Take breaks between applications:

Giving your natural nails a break from acrylics can be beneficial in maintaining their health. Take breaks between applications to allow your nails to breathe and rejuvenate. During this time, focus on nail care and nourishment to promote nail strength and growth.

How Often Should You Give Your Nails a Break from Acrylics?

It’s generally recommended to give your nails a break from acrylics every 3-6 months.

Continuous and prolonged use of acrylic nails can weaken the natural nails and cause them to become brittle and thin.

Allowing regular breaks in between applications gives your natural nails time to recover, grow, and regain their strength. It’s also essential to maintain proper nail care practices during these breaks to promote healthy nail growth.

How Many Days Acrylic Nails Last?

Acrylic nails typically last between 2 to 3 weeks before they need to be filled or repaired or a fill-in. However, with proper care and maintenance, acrylic nails can last up to 4 weeks or more.

The duration that acrylic nails last can vary depending on various factors such as an individual’s nail growth rate, the quality of the application, your daily activities, and how well you care for them.

It’s worth noting that some people may experience lifting or breakage sooner, while others may be able to extend the lifespan of their acrylic nails beyond three weeks.

Also, Learn How to Fix a Broken Acrylic Nail:

Final Words

The issue of acrylic nails constantly breaking can be attributed to several factors. After discussing various aspects of this topic, it is evident that the condition and maintenance of your nails, the quality of the acrylic products used, and certain external factors all play a significant role.

To prevent your acrylic nails from breaking, it is essential to prioritize nail care, choose quality products and application techniques, and be mindful of external factors that may compromise their integrity. By implementing these measures, you can flaunt fabulous, flawless acrylic nails.