Which Manicure is Less Damaging to Nails?

When it comes to manicures, there are a variety of options available to you. Selecting one depends on various factors including occasion, nail color preferences and personal health goals.

But if nail damage is an issue for you, which are your options for minimally damaging services? We consulted nail techs, salon owners and a beauty writer on what would be their recommended approaches to care.

1. Soft Gel Polish

Gel manicures, specifically soft gel varieties, tend to be less damaging than their hard counterpart shellac; however, it is still essential that a professional soak and remove the product for best results. Picking and peeling nails as well as excessive filing or buffing may cause irreparable damage; therefore it is always wise to seek professional assistance prior to picking or peeling nails yourself.

An basic nail polish manicure can be safe as long as the salon uses toxic-free nail polishes. In addition, it is important to regularly moisturize both nails and cuticles and avoid cutting or pushing them.

Traditional nail polish manicures have one major drawback compared to their gel counterparts: they tend to chip and crack more easily. All manicures may cause some form of damage; therefore it is important to take breaks between sessions in order to keep natural nails healthy.

2. Press-On Nails

Press-on nails offer the ideal solution for those unable to visit a nail salon frequently or wanting the freedom of changing out their nails easily and affordably at home, or who want the option of easily switching them out with new styles without professional intervention. They’re affordable and simple to apply themselves at home; lasting up to 6-8 weeks when properly applied and removed.

Julie Kandalec, a professional nail artist who has designed nails for celebrities like Sydney Sweeney and Mariah Carey, advises to ensure a natural looking press-on manicure, ensure the nails line up with your cuticle line and buff natural nails with 91 to 99 percent alcohol to enhance adhesion of adhesives.

Be careful to only apply a pea-sized drop of glue to each nail and press them firmly for 20-30 seconds at an upward angle, taking care not to overglue as this could cause natural nails to lift or peel off.

3. Airbrush Manicure

Manicures are an ideal way to relax and keep your hands looking their best, but it’s essential that you choose an appropriate manicure service, to ensure that your nails remain strong over time. This means selecting a non-toxic nail salon that uses safe products and techniques in their services.

An airbrush manicure offers a less damaging way of adding color or design to their nails. The airbrush technique sprays a fine mist of color onto nails for precise and detailed nail art designs.

This manicure will also last longer due to not needing base coat. You could try more subdued looks with light shade nails with darker tips for added dimension.

4. Natural Nails

Dip powder manicure is an innovative trend that strengthens natural nails while outlasting gel polish. In essence, this involves applying a clear base coat before dipping each nail in pigmented powder (in various colors) before finally being coated with topcoat for protection and long-term wear.

To ensure a healthy manicure, always choose non-toxic nail polishes without formaldehyde, toluene or dibutyl phthalate (DBP). In addition, use cuticle oil regularly for additional hydration and protection against damage to nails.

Don’t pick at your nails; doing so can damage them further and contribute to poor blood circulation in the hands. Maintain a regular manicure schedule whether that be gel, acrylic, or press-on manicures – they all promote health!

5. Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails, composed of liquid monomer and powder polymer that hardens when exposed to air, offer a sturdy nail extension solution. They can be painted any color, decorated with glitter or embellished with nail art designs; just be sure to use non-toxic polish if this option appeals to you!

Remember, however, that nail extensions differ significantly from regular polish, and should only be applied by trained technicians in well-ventilated environments. They should also be removed correctly; soaking nails in acetone won’t do their natural nails any favors!

An organic manicure offers the greatest health benefits. This type of treatment involves filing and shaping nails using sanitized tools before finishing with hydrating cuticles and nails with gentle oils to hydrate both. A manicure should be performed every two weeks.