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If a client no longer wants her sculpted acrylic nails, is it better to let them grow out and file them down or to remove them?

February 22, 2005

 It is not a good idea to grow off acrylic nails. It will leave too much weight on the end of the nail and it will eventually be off balance. That will lead to the stress area having no support and cracking will occur. When you remove acrylic nails, you need to provide a customized nail regimen — sometimes you can do a light wrap as it grows out or on the bare nail. Educate your client about natural nail care. Book them for natural nail services and have them use a nail strengthener regularly. -- Leeanne Colley


I always offer a removal service that includes a manicure with nail strengthener and conditioner. I also include daily instructions for home maintenance. The cost for this service is the same as a fill. I reschedule the client for weekly manicures to maintain her natural nails until they grow out. This way I am able to keep my client happy and keep her coming regularly. -- Cusimano-Clemmons


Editor’s note: After 24 hours, nails usually lose the extra moisture and flexibility, returning to their normally drier and more rigid state. Clients should be patient while their nails grow and regain strength.

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