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
Is too much primer causing lifting?
Sometimes, about a week after doing a new set of nails they lift at the cuticle area. Why is this? Am I using too much primer or nor enough?... read more
How can I get embedded dirt and oil out of the cuticles?
Can you tell me what I can soak my clients’ nails in to remove embedded dirt and oil, particularly in the cuticles?... read more
What are the pros and cons of orangewood sticks vs. metal implements when it comes to pushing back cuticles?
What are the pros and cons of orangewood sticks vs. metal implements when it comes to pushing back cuticles?... read more
What's causing a client's peeling feet?
My client’s feet peel all the time. She doesn’t have athlete’s foot or dry skin and she puts lotion on them twice a day. But they’re still peeling. Any idea what could be wrong?... read more
The Nail Doctor
Is there anything I can do as a nail tech to prevent infected ingrown toenails?... read more
What would make you switch acrylic products?
Reader to Reader: What would make you switch acrylic products?... read more
Is there any benefit to using a UV light to cure top coat on natural nails?
Is there any benefit to using a UV light to cure top coat on natural nails?... read more
What ingredients in lotions and soaps can cause lifting?
What ingredients in lotions and soaps can cause lifting?... read more
Could gels be causing my client's cuticle sensitivity?
I have been using a gel product on a client for several years. A few months ago she started complaining that her cuticles were sore after her appointments.... read more
What unique services do you provide for your pedicure clients?
Readers respond: What unique services do you provide for your pedicure clients?... read more
My 28-year-old female client has a bad case of foot odor. What do I do?
My otherwise healthy 28-year-old female client has a persistent foot odor. The odor is terrible and embarrassing. Her feet sweat in open shoes such as sandals. All topical treatments she has tried have failed. Any suggestions?... read more
What could suddenly brown toenails mean?
I have a very bad case of psoriasis on my scalp. Can this be the cause of the discoloration on my toenails?... read more