QuestionI been wearing acrylics/overlays for over 15 years. I have an overlay on now but i haven't been back to get them filled in. I want to go back natural. I cut them down and shaped them square. I've been putting nail tech for brittle nails and Sally Hanson hard as wraps on the part that is growing out to help strengthen my new nail growth. Its only been a month so far should i wait it out and be patient or soak them off and start from there?
AnswerJontra,
Thank you for visiting AllExperts. Good Job!!, on what you have been doing so far. Because I am a Natural Nail Care Specialist, for the last 25 years and I am partial to "natural nail care", so good for you on making the decision to "go natural"!! That being said, what you are doing is good. The most important thing you can do is to protect all the new nail growth. I do not advocate soaking chemical nail treatment off with acetone, the reason, it is a chemical and your nail beds and skin will absorb the acetone, nor do I advocate chipping, peeling or picking the product off, as it only weakens your nails further.
What I do when I am changing a client from a chemical nail treatment to a natural nail care process is to file the overlay down a little at a time. And always being careful not to file down to the nail bed. Additionally, keep them filed as short as is comfortable. Keeping them short helps to avoid any further trauma.
I would also suggest that you look on the Internet and/or your Yellow Pages and locate a good Natural Nail Care Specialist. If you can find a tech who specializes in "Juliette" paper wraps, that would be the best suggestion.
In regards to the products you are using; I would switch from the Nail Tek or Nailtiques as they very often peel. When ever a nail polish peels, it takes some of your nail layer with it. Your nails grow in layers so it is important to do what you have been doing, but use different products. The product I use is Develop-10 Program. If you go online there are several products within that line that I think would suit you better. I also use Essie nail polish for color. It is the only polish I have found that does not peel off the ends of your nails. Essie also carries nail restorative products in their line, as well.
It is a process and I know you just can't wait to have your nails look good again, but your patience will pay off.
I hope this information has helped you. If you have further questions please do not hesitate to contact me again.
Kindly, Pamela Golightly
