Manicure has long become an integral part of self-care for many people. It is not only a way to emphasize one’s individuality but also an opportunity to give oneself time for relaxation. However, with each new visit to the nail technician or self-application of gel polish, the question arises: how often can you do a manicure without harming your nails? This article analyzes the impact of frequent manicures on nail health and offers recommendations for proper nail care.
Physiology of Nails and the Impact of Manicure
Nails are made of keratin — a protein that is also found in hair and skin. During a manicure, especially when using gel polish, nails undergo several stages of treatment: filing, degreasing, applying chemicals, and exposure to ultraviolet light. Such effects can negatively affect the health of the nail plate if certain recommendations are not followed.
Constant filing and polishing of nails can make them thinner and more brittle. In addition, prolonged wearing of gel polish can lead to nail dehydration, as they do not receive adequate moisture. Therefore, the frequency of manicures should be adjusted according to the nails’ need for rest and recovery.
Optimal Frequency of Manicure
Experts recommend doing a gel polish manicure no more than once every 2-3 weeks. This is because such a period allows the nails to recover slightly between procedures. If you prefer regular nail polish, you can do a manicure more often, for example, weekly, but it is important to give your nails a break for at least a few days between applications.
As for hardware manicures or cuticle treatment, this is also a matter of individual approach. Excessive removal of the cuticle can lead to inflammation or thickening. Therefore, it is optimal to perform such a procedure once every 3-4 weeks, depending on the speed of cuticle growth.
Tips for Maintaining Nail Health
- Rest for Nails: One of the most important aspects of a healthy manicure is breaks between gel polish applications. It is recommended to give your nails a “vacation” for 1-2 weeks every few months so they can restore their structure.
- Moisturizing and Nourishment: Use special cuticle oils and moisturizing hand creams. This will help prevent dehydration of the nails and the skin around them.
- Proper Removal of Coating: Never remove gel polish by peeling it off the nail yourself. This can damage the top layer of the nail plate. It is better to entrust this procedure to a professional or use special products for removing polish.
- Balanced Diet: Nutrition also plays an important role in nail health. B vitamins, calcium, and magnesium help strengthen the nail plate and improve its structure.
When to Pay Attention to the Condition of Your Nails
If you notice that your nails have become thin, brittle, or have spots, this may indicate excessive exposure to chemicals or ultraviolet light. In such cases, it is worth taking a break from manicures and providing your nails with additional care using nourishing oils and vitamin complexes.
Manicure is not only an aesthetic procedure but also an important part of self-care. However, to keep your nails healthy, it is important to maintain moderation and give them time to recover. The optimal frequency of manicure depends on the type of coating and the individual characteristics of the nails. Proper care, breaks between procedures, and moisturizing will help keep your nails beautiful and strong for many years.
