Whether you’re a DIY mani queen or a regular in the salon chair, nails are one of those beauty areas where everyone seems to have an opinion, and let’s be honest, not all of them are helpful. I’ve heard it all over the years: from the classic “nails need to breathe” to “cutting cuticles makes them grow faster.”
So let’s clear things up, shall we?
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Here are some of the most common nail myths, mistakes I see all the time, and some expert advice to help you get stronger, healthier, and longer lasting manis – whether you’re into gels, BIAB, or regular polish.
Myth #1: “Nails need to breathe.”
Let’s get this one out of the way first. Your nails do NOT need to breathe. Nails are made of keratin (like your hair), and they don’t have lungs! What they do need is hydration and care. If your nails feel weak or damaged after gels or acrylics, it’s more likely due to incorrect removal or lack of aftercare, not because they’ve been “suffocating.”
Expert tip: Use a nourishing cuticle oil daily (yes, daily!) and give your nails a break from poor technique, not from polish.
Mistake #1: Cutting your cuticles (incorrectly!)
I know a tidy cuticle area looks clean and polished, but this is where technique really matters. Cuticles are there to protect the new nail growth underneath, and cutting them incorrectly can lead to infection, irritation, or even make them grow back rougher and thicker.
What to do instead: If you’re going to cut them, make sure it’s done professionally and with care, never hack away or cut too deep. I gently trim only the excess after pushing it back properly. Always follow with hydrating cuticle oil to keep the area healthy, soft, and looking fresh.
Myth #2: “BIAB ruins your nails.”
BIAB (Builder in a Bottle) has a bad rep in some circles, but truthfully, when applied and removed correctly, it can actually protect and strengthen your nails. The problem is usually in how it’s removed. Over-filing, ripping off product, or not using soak-off methods can cause damage, not the BIAB itself.
My advice: Always go to a trained professional and ask how they’re removing it.
Mistake #2: Not prepping properly
If your polish chips after a day or your gel lifts in a week, your prep might be to blame. Oils, leftover dust, or even touching your nail too much before applying product can sabotage your mani before you’ve even begun.
Quick checklist:
- Push back and tidy cuticles
- Buff the shine off the natural nail (lightly!)
- Cleanse with isopropyl alcohol (acetone can work too)
- Keep your fingers oil and lint-free until top coat is cured
Trust me, good prep is 99% of a good manicure.
@iramshelton How to care for natural nails. My full nail care routine @Tweezerman UK @Sally Hansen @Nailberry @LOCCITANE @Manucurist #nails #nailcare #handcareroutine
Myth #3: “White spots mean calcium deficiency”
This one’s been around for ages, but most white spots are actually caused by minor trauma to the nail bed, not a calcium issue. Maybe you banged your finger or picked off your gel (guilty) a few weeks ago, then bam, a random white dot shows up.
Pro tip: Keep your nails hydrated and protected, and avoid picking or biting to minimise these little bumps in the road.
Mistake #3: Over-buffing or over-filing
Your nails should never feel sore or thin after a manicure. If they do, it could be from over-buffing or harsh filing, especially near the cuticle. This weakens the nail and makes them more prone to peeling or breaking.
What I recommend: Let the tools do the work. Gentle pressure and the right grit file go a long way. And if you’re doing nails at home, invest in quality tools, it makes such a difference.
Expert Advice: The Nail Care Basics That Make the Biggest Difference
- Oil is your BFF – Use cuticle oil at least once a day. It keeps nails flexible and stops breakage.
- Gloves in the kitchen – Washing up liquid and cleaning products dry out nails big time.
- File in one direction – See-sawing with your nail file causes splitting.
- Stay consistent – Like skin or hair care, nail health is all about the long game. Regular maintenance is key.
@iramshelton Here’s to stronger, healthier nails using only 2 products @essie my nails have never looked better! Designed to look like builder gel but without UV light. #naturalnails #strongnails #essie #nailstrengthener #nailcare #nails #biab
Nail care doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require the right info. Once you cut through the myths and stop making tiny mistakes, you’ll notice a massive difference, not just in how your nails look, but in how long your manicures last.
I hope this helped clear up some of the confusion. Let me know if there are any other myths you’ve heard!
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