Oils on the nail plate can block adhesion, but they cannot dissolve the product once it has bonded to the nail plate. Even small amounts of oil on the nail plate will block areas where the product will normally adhere. But once product adhesion to the plate is established, oils will not break this bond. Applying a penetrating oil to an enhancement surface can be very useful. Penetrating oils, such as jojoba, can add flexibility and toughness to the enhancement. (An oil that won’t penetrate the skin, such as mineral oil, probably won’t penetrate enhancements or nail plates.) In short, remove oils from the nail plate to prevent lifting, add penetrating oils to the enhancement to increase product longevity. It is a tried-and-true combination that really works. — Doug Schoon
Technique
If oil causes acrylic nails to lift, then why are we urged to use it and to tell clients to use cuticle oil?
December 20, 2010
More FAQ
My clear and acrylic nails appear dull or frosted. What am I doing wrong?
After I apply clear or natural acrylic nails, they don’t appear clear. They have an almost frosted or dull look. What am I doing wrong? Am I applying too much?... read more
How to I keep wraps from lifting on a client with poor circulation?
I have a client with very poor circulation, and therefore, very cold hands, making it difficult to keep her silk overlays from lifting. I have already tried pH balancers and extra silk and resin, but the lifting continues to occur. What else could I try that might work?... read more
If I don't etch the nails before applying acrylics, do I need to apply more primer?
During my training for fills, I was taught to etch the natural nail regrowth for the strongest hold and to prevent lifting. Yet, I recently read that a technician did not etch the nail because it causes so much damage. I agree, but wonder what the major difference would be without etching? Should I apply more primer?... read more
Should I remove the gel overlay from my client's damaged nail?
I have a client who wears gels over her natural nails. She hit her nail really hard and although it didn’t come off, it did bleed underneath the nail plate. Should I remove the overlay from the nail? Should I be worried about infection setting in?... read more
Is it common to have to change products or procedures depending on the weather?
Is it common to have to change products or procedures (including changing the ration of the products) depending on the weather? Is it possible for perspiration to make the product lift?... read more
Can you over-cure gel?
Can you over-cure gel?... read more
Why do some of my clients feel a burning sensation when I use my e-file?
I have only had my license for six months, and I have definitely found that my e-file cuts down on time. The only problem is when I’m reducing the acrylic to take off old product, some of my clients feel a burning sensation. I make sure I’m not applying too much pressure. I have my RPM set at 15,000 and usually use a medium-grit sanding band. What can I do about this? Should I go back to carbide bits?... read more
Why do some people wear gels over acrylic extensions?
I’ve heard that some people wear gels over acrylic extensions. Why do they do this, and how do you do this? Is there anything you have to be careful of during the application?... read more
I’ve heard that some people wear gels over acrylic extensions? Why do they do this, and how do you do this?
I’ve heard that some people wear gels over acrylic extensions? Why do they do this, and how do you do this? Is there anything you have to be careful of during the application?... read more
When I’m reducing the acrylic to take off old product, some of my clients feel a burning sensation. What can I do about this?
I have only had my license for six months, and I have definitely found that my e-file cuts down on time. The only problem is when I’m reducing the acrylic to take off old product, some of my clients feel a burning sensation. I make sure I’m not applying too much pressure. I have my RPM set at 15,000 and usually use a medium-grit sanding band. What can I do about this? Should I go back to carbide bits?... read more
Myth Busters: Will suntan lotion mixed with the ocean's salty water turn gels to goo?
I heard that if you go into the ocean with a lot of suntan lotion on, the small amount of acetone in the suntan lotion interacts with the salt water and can run down your fingers and turn your gels to goo. Is this true?... read more
What’s the trick to getting dark glitters to cure when doing rock star gel nails?
What’s the trick to getting dark glitters to cure when doing rock star gel nails? I do my nail prep, then a layer of Akzentz Base N Gloss. I cure and put another layer of Base N Gloss, then sprinkle on the glitter and tap off some of the excess. I cure after that, and I brush off the excess again when it’s done, but a lot of glitter will come off with it. And this is with a brand new gel lamp. So I put on more gel, more glitter, etc., but I’d like to get it right the first time to save time.... read more