Dealing with Long Natural Nails Under Acrylic: Fill-Ins or a New Set?
Many women face the challenge of managing their natural nails when they grow significantly longer than their acrylic tips. The question often arises: if your natural nail underneath the acrylic almost exceeds the length of the tips, can you still get fill-ins, or do you need to get a whole new set? Let's explore the considerations and options available to you.
Length Adjustment
One of the first things to consider is whether a nail technician needs to make adjustments to the acrylic layer. If your natural nails have grown longer than the acrylic tips, it may be necessary to trim or reshape the acrylic. This ensures that the nails look natural and well-proportioned. Nail technicians are skilled at making these adjustments, but the appearance of your nails after the fill-ins will depend on how much overgrowth there is and how the technician approaches the task.
Maintenance
While regular fill-ins can enhance the longevity of your acrylic nails, they come with a maintenance requirement. Typically, fill-ins are done every 2-3 weeks. If your natural nails are growing in at a rapid pace, you may find that you need more frequent appointments to maintain the desired look.
Health of the Nails
The health of your biological nails is also an important factor to consider. If the acrylic is lifting or showing signs of damage to your natural nails, it might be better to remove the acrylic and make a fresh start. Removing the old acrylic, especially when it is lifted or damaged, can prevent further issues and allow your nails to breathe, promoting healthier growth.
Consultation
The best course of action is to consult with a professional. A nail technician can assess your current nail condition and advise whether a fill-in or a complete new set is the best option for you. They will be able to provide a personalized recommendation based on your specific situation.
Alternatives to Fill-Ins
Another option is to get the acrylic removed and enhance your natural nails with hardener. This would require trimming your nails to even them out. Your natural nails might not be as strong as they once were due to prolonged exposure to acrylic, so additional steps might be necessary to strengthen them.
Removing Acrylic Nails
If you decide to remove your acrylic nails, the process requires soaking them in acetone to break down the adhesive. This process can take an hour or more. After the acrylic is removed, you can proceed to either cut your nails short and reapply a new acrylic set or leave them long and apply a fresh acrylic layer. The choice depends on your nail needs, personal preferences, and the overall condition of your natural nails.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, you can choose what you want to do. If fill-ins are more convenient and help maintain the aesthetic, then that might be the best option for you. However, if you desire a completely new start, a full removal and reapplication of acrylic could be the way to go. Both options are possible, and it is up to you to decide what suits your needs best.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to get fill-ins or a whole new set of acrylic nails depends on several factors, including the length of your natural nails, their health, and your personal preferences. Consulting with a professional will help you make an informed decision that best suits your nail needs.