How Long Is It Safe to Wear Acrylic Nails

Last updated January 16, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Acrylic nails have really surged in popularity thanks to celebrities, Instagram, and skilled nail influencers showcasing eye-catching designs that leave a strong impression.

If you enjoy a bold manicure, acrylic nails offer unparalleled versatility.

However, although well-manicured nails can remain healthy, a very long duration of acrylics may have detrimental effects on the nails.

So, how long is it safe to wear acrylic nails? If you are wondering how long to wear acrylic nails, read on to find out!

What are Acrylic Nails?

They are synthetic extensions crafted from acrylic plastic, applied on top of your real nails.

They can be made to increase your nail length or align with your nail shape.

They’re ideal for individuals who desire lengthy nails but struggle to grow their own or have fragile nails that easily break.

Acrylic nails provide durability and enable one's manicure to endure for weeks without any indications of breaking or chipping.

Additionally, they provide durability and added length – and when it comes to nail art, durability and length are crucial.

How Long Is It Safe to Wear Acrylic Nails?

Keeping acrylic nails on for too long in an attempt to maximize their value may lead to significant harm to your real nails.

So, how long is it safe to wear acrylic nails? It is safe to wear acrylic nails for 3 weeks.

However, if you keep your acrylics up to five weeks, your nails can get painful, and applying pressure to them makes your matrix, the area where your nails grow, turn white.

Also, as your real nails start to grow, your acrylic nails will exert more pressure on them below, which will ultimately weaken them.

Then, keeping your acrylics on for an extended period can also increase your risk of a fungal infection.

This is because the separation of the acrylics creates spaces between your natural nail and the acrylic, which enables moisture buildup and bacterial growth.

They can even lead to the drying out of your nails’ natural oils, making them more fragile, which may result in losing or breaking a nail.

So, for the all-round health of the nails, it is definitely not worth attempting to prolong acrylics' lifespan as much as you can.

Then, to keep them while at home, steer clear of extended water exposure and use protective gloves when cleaning and washing dishes.

You can also apply quality cuticle oil to preserve your cuticles and nail bed.

Additionally, your real nails can undergo a series of IBX treatments - this therapy bonds the upper layers of your nail bed for enhanced durability.

Why Should You Allow Your Nails to Breathe?

The nails require appropriate attention and may occasionally need a break.

Taking breaks occasionally will help avoid chipping and yellowing.

A clear indication that you need break from acrylic nails is if your real nail loses its bright pink color and smooth texture.

Although there isn't a specific schedule that suits everybody, you should ensure that your nails receive appropriate care.

Allowing damage to accumulate is not advisable.

Consult with your manicurist to seek their expert advice as well — then you may determine if your nails require a break.

Can Acrylics Damage Your Nails?

A lot of ladies opt for acrylic nails in order to achieve stronger, more natural-looking nails; however, they can ultimately weaken and harm natural nails over time.

However, if done properly and with intervals allowed, you can minimize harm and maintain nail health.

Although the application of acrylic nails uses numerous chemicals, if performed with adequate ventilation and safely, the procedure should not present any dangers.

However, if the removal process is not performed properly, it can lead to issues such as potential infections and injury to your nail bed.

Careful and gentle extraction is essential, preferably performed by a qualified nail technician.

Also, like any beauty treatment, ensure that the surroundings are hygienic and that all equipment has been adequately disinfected.

Can You Remove Acrylic Nails Yourself?

Although it’s generally advisable to leave the removal of acrylic nails to the experts, you can remove them yourself at times when you cannot get to the nail salon.

When your acrylic nails begin to chip or come off, it's essential to avoid picking at them but try to take them off in a manner that minimizes harm to your real nails.

If you have to take off your acrylic nails at home, you will require cotton balls, nail files, polish remover, nail scissors, and aluminum foil.

Conclusion

Regardless of whether you choose to use acrylic or gel nails, strive to provide continual hydration and consult a skilled nail technician for both removal and application.

If your nail is weak, continue with strengthening treatments until they are healed, healthier, and stronger.

By receiving the right care, you’ll be on track to achieving healthy nails.