When it comes to beauty myths, there’s certainly no shortage of confusion even amongst experienced technicians. We’re going to look at five of the worst myths about nails, from common drying techniques that could be doing more damage than good, to what small white spots on your nails ACTUALLY mean.
1. You should let your nails breathe
No, you don’t have to do this. Your nails are not alive, and your body already provides everything they need to grow. Your nails remain largely unaffected by oxygen, and in truth, constantly covering them with varnish may even keep in their natural oils.
2. Your cuticles should be clipped to keep nails healthy
Nope, put those clippers away. Your cuticles are actually important in that they are the only barrier between the nail beds and everyday germs. Clipping your cuticles exposes you to more germs, plus the cuticle skin (scar tissue) will just grow back even thicker than it was previously. Qualified technicians should never clip their clients’ cuticles, and instead explain why this can be damaging.
3. Always file back-and-forth
This is one of the worst myths about nails that is guaranteed to weaken them, and could even cause the edges to peel. When filing, you should always start at the edge before moving towards the nail’s center. Go for a short-short-long motion, and opt for a very fine nail file and take care to gently file your nails only when they are 100% dry. If you attend proper schooling, you’ll be taught the best way to file nails, as going in a back-and-forth motion or using the wrong file can damage clients’ nails and your own.
4. False nails can be damaging
Acrylics and gel nails are perfectly safe. As long as your nail technician is properly qualified and uses the correct techniques when applying and removing your nails, they should not be damaged. This is why you should be going to a reputable salon to get nail work done, and also why you should become qualified before you attempt to use these kinds of treatments on other people.
5. Your nails can absorb vitamins and nutrients
This is completely false. Vitamins and nutrients only get to your nails through your bloodstream, via healthy food you eat. It is true that some nail oils contain vitamin E, but only for use as an antioxidant which helps to protect the nail plate from any exposure to outside elements. Talking to clients about ways to ‘feed’ your nails nutrients – when you’re not referring to food that goes in your mouth – is a big no-no.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our top five biggest myths about nails. If you want to learn more, check out the courses at Avenue Five today.