How Long Should You Keep Fake Nails On?

Fake nails can make your hands look instantly glamorous, but how long can you actually keep a set on before needing to remove and replace them? Getting the most wear out of false nails means understanding how they work and how to care for them properly.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: You should get 2-3 weeks of wear from a properly applied and cared for set of fake nails before needing to remove and replace them.

What Impacts How Long Fake Nails Last

How Well They Are Applied

The application process is crucial for long-lasting fake nails. A skilled technician will properly prep the natural nail, apply the best adhesive for the nail type, and expertly attach the fake nail. Rushed prep and application can lead to lifting, cracking or falling off prematurely.

Take time to find an experienced nail tech for the best results. Awesome application is key!

The Quality and Type of Fake Nails

Not all fake nails are created equal! Cheap acrylic or press-on nails may only last a few days before problems arise. High-quality salon acrylics, gel or dip powders can last 2-3 weeks with proper application and care. Opt for reputable salon brands rather than drugstore varieties.

Dip and gel manicures may outlast acrylics since they are less rigid and don’t lift as easily. Pick the right fake nails for your lifestyle.

How You Care for Them

Daily maintenance and care has a big impact on how long your manicure lasts. Avoid excessive water exposure when washing hands or showering, and wear gloves for cleaning and gardening. Use cuticle oil daily to hydrate the nail bed. File down lifting edges instead of pulling or picking at them.

Get occasional touch-up fills instead of waiting until extensive breakage occurs. Don’t force or peel off fake nails as this can damage the natural nail. Taking good care leads to longer-lasting nails!

With quality nails, expert application, and diligent care you can keep your manicure looking fabulous for weeks! Follow these tips for long-lasting fake nail success. 💅

Tips for Making Fake Nails Last

Start With a Professional Application

Getting your fake nails applied by a professional manicurist is key for long-lasting wear. They will properly prep your nails, use high-quality glue and apply each nail meticulously. This creates a strong base that helps fake nails adhere for 2-3 weeks.

Going to the salon may cost more upfront, but it’s worth it to maximize longevity. 👍

Use Quality Products

Not all fake nails are created equal! Choose reputable brands known for durable, realistic-looking products. Stay away from cheap nail kits that may peel or become damaged quickly. Investing in salon-quality fake nails like Kiarasky or Dashing Diva is the best way to make them last.

Avoid Picking at or Peeling Nails

This bad habit will shorten the life of fake nails. Try to keep your hands occupied to avoid mindlessly picking at them. Use cuticle oil to keep the skin around your nails hydrated, which prevents lifting or peeling. If you notice small cracks, use nail glue to quickly re-adhere them.

Be Gentle on Your Hands

Your daily activities impact how long fake nails wear. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners which can weaken the bond. Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning. Be extra careful with your nails during workouts. Also, don’t use your nails as tools to open cans or pry things!

Use Nail Glue for Quick Touch-Ups

Carry nail glue in your purse for on-the-go repairs. At the first sign of lifting, re-adhere the nail to maintain a tight seal. Look for glues containing cyanoacrylate which provide a strong, long-lasting bond in seconds. This allows you to enjoy your manicure to the fullest!

When to Remove and Replace Fake Nails

After 2-3 Weeks of Wear

Even though quality fake nails can last up to 4 weeks or more, experts generally recommend replacing them every 2-3 weeks. As the American Academy of Dermatology notes, artificial nails harbor more bacteria than natural nails.

After 2-3 weeks of wear, the bond between the natural and fake nail can weaken, allowing moisture, soap, debris, and bacteria to collect underneath.

Replacing the nails regularly helps prevent issues like infections, nail bed damage, and premature lifting. It also allows you to fill any gaps in the nail polish and maintain a fresh, polished look. When first applying fakes, aim to replace them every 2 weeks.

As you get used to them, you may be able to push it to 3 weeks between appointments.

When Multiple Nails Have Lifted or Popped Off

Having 1 or 2 nails pop off or lift over time is normal. But if 3 or more nails have detached, it’s a sign that the nails have reached the end of their lifespan. According to nail care brand Kiara Sky, this typically occurs around weeks 3-4 of wear.

When multiples have detached, moisture and debris have likely loosened the bond between the natural and acrylic nail. Bacteria and fungus can then take hold under lifted nails. At this point, it’s best to remove and replace them to prevent potential infections or damage.

If Nails Have Become Damaged or Misshapen

Artificial nails slowly thin out and lose their shape over time, making them more prone to cracking and breaking. If you notice significant damage like large cracks or chips in multiple nails, it’s a sign they should be replaced. Having just 1-2 small chips can be normal over 2-3 weeks of wear.

But more extensive damage means the acrylic or gel material has worn too thin and unevenly over the natural nail.

Nails can also become misshapen over time as the material lifts or detaches unevenly across the nail. According to nail care site Byrdie, if over 25% of the underside of the nail has lifted and the shape now looks uneven or bumpy, it’s time for a replacement.

How to Remove Fake Nails Properly

Use Acetone-Based Nail Polish Remover

The best way to safely remove fake nails is by using pure acetone-based nail polish remover. Acetone breaks down the strong glue adhesive used to attach fake nails. Pour some acetone into a small bowl and soak each nail for 10-15 minutes. The nail should slide right off with no pulling needed!

For a faster removal, wrap each finger with acetone-soaked cotton balls or aluminum foil. Acetone can dry out the nails, so apply a nourishing cuticle oil after removing fakes.

Avoid Pulling Off Nails

Never forcefully pull off fake nails as this can rip off layers of your natural nail. Not only is this painful, but it damages the nail bed. If the nails won’t budge after soaking in acetone, file the top layer of glue off gently with a nail file. Keep reapplying acetone and slowly work the nails off.

Patience is key! Pulling nails abruptly can also remove layers of your natural nails, causing them to become thin and brittle.

Gently File Down Remaining Glue Residue

After removing fake nails, you’ll likely have some stubborn glue left behind on the natural nail surface. Take a fine grit nail file and gently buff off the remaining adhesive. Don’t file too vigorously as this can thin the natural nails. Work in one direction to prevent nail damage.

Use a cuticle pusher to nudge glue out from around the cuticles and nail edges. Go slowly and be very gentle during this process. The nail bed is sensitive!

Moisturize Nails and Cuticles After Removal

Fake nails can leave natural nails dry and brittle. Apply a hydrating nail oil, like jojoba or vitamin E oil, after removal. Gently massage the oil into the nails and cuticles to replenish moisture. This helps strengthen weak, damaged nails after acrylic/gel use.

Apply daily for 2 weeks post-removal for best results. An intensive overnight treatment glove delivers deep conditioning. Always wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning to prevent water exposure and keep nails protected.

Caring for Natural Nails After Fake Nails

Trim and File Nails

After removing acrylic or gel nails, it’s important to gently trim and file the natural nails. The nails will likely have some residual damage and thickness from the fake nails. Use a glass file or very gentle emery board to thin down and smooth the nail surface.

Don’t aggressively file or trim the nails as this can lead to more damage. Take it slow and gently shape and trim the nails to a more natural length and thickness. Moisturize after filing.

Apply a Strengthening Treatment

Look for nail hardeners or strengthening treatments formulated with nourishing ingredients like calcium, vitamins, and proteins. Apply it daily as directed for a few weeks to help repair and restore the natural nails. Avoid products with formaldehyde as this can actually weaken nails over time.

Some great nourishing ingredients to look for are horsetail, biotin, hydrolyzed wheat protein, and bamboo silica.

Moisturize and Massage Nails Daily

It’s essential to keep the nails and surrounding skin well-moisturized. Dehydration can lead to brittle, cracking nails. Massage a rich cuticle oil, balm, or cream into the nails and cuticles at least twice daily.

Jojoba oil, coconut oil, shea butter, and vitamin E are excellent moisturizing ingredients for nails. Take time to gently massage each nail bed to stimulate healthy circulation.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Damage

While nails are recovering post-acrylics, it’s vital to avoid exposure to damaging chemicals found in nail polish remover, cleaning agents, etc. Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning to protect the nails from harsh ingredients.

Avoid using nail polish remover as the acetone can dry out the nails. Also, prevent any direct impact or trauma to the nails, which can lead to cracks and breaks in the weakened state. Be extra gentle with nails and hands during the recovery period.

Conclusion

With proper application and care, a quality set of fake nails can last 2-3 weeks or more before needing removal and replacement. Avoid picking at nails, be gentle with your hands, and remove nails properly when they do lift or pop off to get the most wear time.

Give your natural nails a little TLC between sets so they stay healthy for your next faux manicure.