We are beyond excited to introduce a game-changing concept that will transform the way you care for your nails: nail cycling! Nail cycling involves taking periodic breaks from your regular nail treatments and embracing a more natural approach to nail care. Here's how to do it.
Nail cycling is all about giving your nails the extra TLC that they need. While having a perfectly manicured set of nails has become a beauty standard, taking a break from getting them done can provide numerous benefits. Dermatologist Nazanin Saedi told Byrdie, “Regular manicures can leave your nails weakened, damaged, and stained.” So, giving your nails time off allows them the time to repair. Additionally, if you regularly use gel or acrylic manicures, taking a break from the UV drying lamps is also recommended - not only to give your nails a break but to protect yourself. Saedi said, “A study by researchers at the University of California found that continued, unprotected exposure to the UV light from nail polish dryers can lead to cell mutations that can cause skin cancer.”
Just like your hair and skin need to be taken care of, so do your nails. Giving your nails a break first allows them to rehydrate themselves. It also provides time for the nail matrix to repair. The nail matrix is the base of your nails, and keeping this part of the nail healthy is essential. Why, you may be wondering? The matrix is the part that creates new skin cells and pushes out the old ones. Additionally, damage can be done to nails when your gel or acrylic manicures are removed. “If you or your nail tech are in a rush, or if you too aggressively remove the polish, you can damage the nail,” Saedi said. If this continuously happens, it can leave your nails dehydrated and completely brittle, and nobody wants that! Saedi suggested taking a break of about one to two weeks every eight to ten weeks.
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Everyone needs a break now and then, including your nails. Giving them time to repair themselves will ultimately give you healthier nails in the long run.