Super Glue for Fake Nails: A Personal Experience and Professional Advice
Using super glue for fake nails is not recommended. Super glue or cyanoacrylate can be very harsh on the natural nails and skin, potentially causing irritation or damage. Instead, it's better to use products specifically designed for nail applications such as nail glue. Nail glue is formulated to be safe for use on nails and provides a strong bond without the same risks associated with super glue. If you're applying fake nails, make sure to follow the instructions provided with the product for the best results.
The Problem with Super Glue
The primary issue with super glue is that it promotes the growth of harmful fungi. Nail glue, on the other hand, has anti-fungal properties and is more suitable for maintaining the health of your natural nails.
Personal Experience with Super Glue
Some people might say you can't use super glue for fake nails, but in reality, it's up to you. I am not recommending anyone to use super glue or any other type of adhesive, so wear it at your own risk. I have been using super glue for years to apply my fake nails, and they adhere longer than the regular nail glues that I have used. I apply very little super glue, or else it will seep out around the edge. When you go to apply pressure to the fake nail to adhere it, it can do that and make a mess, potentially gluing your finger to the nail and making a mess of the top of the fake nail. However, if this happens, simply quickly remove your finger for a second until the glue that seeped out dries, and then press it again. Remember, it adheres real fast.
However, I do not wear fake nails for more than a week because they tend to make my nails underneath start to become sore. I give my natural nails time to breathe after I remove them. Most of the time, you'll still have the glue on top of your natural nails. What I do for this, because I've never found anything really to remove the leftover glue or to remove the fake nails, is to soak my fingers in hot water and any kind of liquid soap for a while, and periodically take an orange stick and very gently try to lift the fake nail off starting at the sides. Usually, they pop off without too much trouble. If they don't, I continue to soak them longer until I can remove them. I then take an emery board and gently file the leftover glue from the top of my natural nails until it's off. Be cautious, though, not to apply too much pressure when doing this, or you might cause your nail beds to get thin from filing. Super glue sometimes causes this thinning when removing fake nails. I also use super glue to repair a split or broken natural nail. Again, use very little super glue, and then gently file it smooth. When my natural nail breaks at the quick, which is very painful for most of us, I place a tiny drop of super glue to the broken area of the nail to help it grow out a bit, which makes clipping it off painlessly easier.
Alternatives to Super Glue
Despite the potential risks, there are alternatives to using super glue for fake nails. Nail glue is a safer and more effective option, designed specifically for nail applications. It provides a strong bond without the harshness associated with super glue. Additionally, nail glue is less likely to cause irritation or damage to the natural nails and skin.
DIY Fake Nails: A Cost-Effective Alternative
If you prefer to do it yourself, DIY fake nails can be a less expensive alternative to visiting a nail salon. You can avoid the issue of fill-ins as your nail grows out or the hassles of getting them repaired. Your fake nails will look just as good as those from a salon if you take your time to get the right size and ensure they are glued on straight and filed to your liking. Whether you're applying fake nails or repairing split or broken natural nails, super glue can be a valuable tool, but it's essential to use it sparingly and following the necessary precautions.