How Long Does It Take for Acrylic or Gel Nails to Grow Out?
Acrylic and gel nails have been popular choices for many years due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. However, these types of nails do not grow out naturally like natural nails. Instead, they are designed to adhere to the natural nail bed, providing a seamless and longer-lasting look. Let's explore how long it takes for acrylic or gel nails to grow out, and what steps you need to take to maintain and ultimately remove them.
Understanding Acrylic and Gel Nails
Acrylic nails are created by applying a hard acrylic powder or liquid, shaped, and cured with a special lamp or cured with a chemical reaction. Gel nails, on the other hand, are cured under ultraviolet light to form a flexible and glossy finish. Despite the differences in their application, both types of nails adhere to the natural nail bed and extend beyond the normal length of the nail plate.
Natural Nail Growth vs. Acrylic or Gel Nails
Unlike natural nails, which grow from the nail bed at a rate of approximately 3 to 4 millimeters per month, acrylic and gel nails are not living structures. They are artificial shells that can only be removed with the natural nail. Therefore, the “growth” of an acrylic or gel nail is not related to natural nail growth but to the natural shedding of the nail plate over time.
How Long Does It Take for Acrylic Nails to Grow Out?
When considering the removal or growth out of acrylic nails, it's essential to understand that the entire process will be gradual and may take a considerable amount of time. The typical timeline for the natural removal of acrylic nails without any professional intervention is around 6 to 8 weeks.
Reasons for this timeframe:
The acrylic nail is firmly bonded to the natural nail bed, making it difficult to remove without causing damage.
Over time, as the natural nail grows and emerges, it will naturally push the acrylic nail off the nail bed, causing it to fall off.
The rate of growth can vary depending on individual factors such as genetics, health, and environmental conditions.
Factors Affecting the Time It Takes for Acrylic Nails to Fall Off
Several factors can influence how long it takes for acrylic nails to grow out:
1. Nail Growth Rate
The average growth rate of nails is about 3 to 4 millimeters per month. However, this can vary significantly from person to person. Some people may have faster or slower nail growth due to genetic or health factors.
2. Nail Health and Condition
Healthy nails typically grow more quickly. If the natural nails are weak, brittle, or affected by any condition (such as nail fungus or injury), their growth may be slower.
3. Application Technique and Quality
The quality and technique used in applying acrylic or gel nails can also affect how long they last. Professionally applied nails that are done with the right technique and using high-quality products are more likely to adhere well and last longer.
Maintaining and Removing Acrylic or Gel Nails
Regular maintenance is crucial for the best results and the health of your natural nails. Here are some tips for maintaining acrylic or gel nails:
1. Professional Manicures
Visit a salon for regular manicures to ensure that your acrylic or gel nails are well-maintained and that they fit properly. This can help prevent issues like lifting or separation from the nail bed.
2. Gently Push Back the Cuticle
Proper cuticle care is essential. Gently pushing back the cuticle can help maintain a healthy nail bed and promote the natural growth of your nails.
3. Use a Nourishing Nail Oil
Nourishing oils can help keep your natural nails strong and healthy. They can also prevent the color of your acrylic nails from seeping into your natural nails.
4. Be Patient and Monitor Your Nails
Be patient and keep an eye on your nails. If you notice any signs of weakness or lifting, contact a professional to address the issue promptly.
Conclusion
Acrilan (acrylic nails) and gel nails do not grow out and must be removed with the natural nail when the natural nail has grown out enough to push the acrylic or gel nail off the nail bed. A typical timeline for natural removal is 6 to 8 weeks, but this can vary based on nail growth, health, and application technique.
Regular professional maintenance is essential to keep acrylic or gel nails looking their best and to minimize the risk of any issues that can arise from wearing artificial nails.