The answer really boils down to what acrylic system is being used. In the early days of artificial nails, when MMA was used, acrylic was very porous. You couldn’t even use hand lotion or they would lift. The newest generations of artificial nail products are virtually non-porous and therefore we can use lotions, creams, and oils without worrying about lifting. If used daily, cuticle oil will not cause or prevent lifting. What it will do is keep the nail plate flexible so that it does not pull away from the product. It will, of course, help to keep the skin and cuticles soft and smooth. -- Sue Irwin
Technique
More FAQ
Can you offer any advice on how to keep my pink-and-white sculpts from turning out too thick?
Can you offer any advice on how to keep my pink-and-white sculpts from turning out too thick?... read more
How do I know which electric file bit to use for which purpose?
With so many different electric file bits, please tell me which ones are really needed to file off acrylic or gel for prep, and which ones go around the cuticle area, file off excess acrylic, and then smooth the acrylic over the nails. (I also need to know sizes).... read more
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?
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? I often get this question from clients when we remove the acrylic and the natural nail is very weak.... read more
What is a time-efficient one-ball method acrylic?
Time is an issue at my salon. What is a time-efficient one-ball method acrylic? I never know what size ball to start with.... read more
Is it safe to apply acrylic nails on an asthmatic client?
Is it safe to apply acrylic nails on an asthmatic client?... read more
When you sculpt with gels, how do you get a C-curve?
When you sculpt with gels, how do you get a C-curve?... read more
How can I convince my clients that there’s no harm in my nipping off excess cuticle?
How can I convince my clients that there’s no harm in my nipping off excess cuticle?... read more
How can I remove callus from the feet if it's illegal in my state to use a metal rasps and such?
How can I remove callus from the feet? In Florida, it is illegal to use metal rasps and such, so all I can use is scrubs, sloughing lotions, and a foot file.... read more
When you use colored acrylics to create nail art, do you file the acrylic smooth? Can you use any liquid with colored powders?
When you use colored acrylics to create nail art, do you file the acrylic smooth or do you leave it? What if it’s 3-D? Also, can you use any acrylic liquid with colored powders?... read more
How do you take off gels without hurting your clients’ natural nails?
How do you take off gels without hurting your clients’ natural nails?... read more
I'm having a hard time control my electric file. I'm scared of cutting the client. How do I get more comfortable?
I have been doing nails for about a year now and I am having such a hard time getting used to using an electric file. My problem is with control. Basically I can’t go over the surface of the nail because I am too scared of cutting the client or having the drill kick under and over the nail. I don’t know what I should do to get more comfortable using it.... read more
How do I blend clear/transparent nail tips with a natural nail since filing causes scratches?
How do I blend clear/transparent nail tips with a natural nail since filing causes scratches? Is it better to use half-well clear tips instead of full-well?... read more