What does regular maintenance help to prevent in acrylic nails?

Regular maintenance of acrylic nails is essential for their longevity and overall health. One of the most critical reasons to maintain acrylics is to prevent lifting, which occurs when the acrylic starts to separate from the natural nail. Lifting can happen for several reasons, including the accumulation of moisture, improper application techniques, or the growth of the natural nail beneath the acrylic. By regularly filling and maintaining acrylic nails, technicians ensure a proper seal between the acrylic and the natural nail, reducing the likelihood of lifting.

This maintenance typically involves filing down the acrylic at the cuticle area where new nail growth has occurred and applying fresh product to promote adherence and keep the nails looking fresh. Keeping ahead of potential issues through regular maintenance helps avoid the discomfort or damage that can arise from lifted acrylics, such as infections or breakage.

While discoloration, sagging, and brittleness are also concerns that can arise with acrylic nails, they are not the primary focus of routine maintenance like lifting is. Regular maintenance directly addresses the bond between the acrylic and the natural nail, thus mitigating lifting effectively.