Busting Nail Myths: What You Need to Know
Nail care advice is abundant, but much of it is incorrect. Common myths about nail health are often repeated until they are mistaken for fact. These misconceptions may lead to poor habits and unnecessary worries about nail care.
At La Muse Beauty Bar in Thornton, we focus on providing accurate information. Knowing the facts about nail care helps you maintain healthy nails. Below are some of the most common nail myths and the real facts behind them.
Myth 1: Nails Need to Breathe
A popular belief is that nails require air to remain healthy. People may think wearing polish or extensions deprives nails of oxygen, so they suggest taking breaks for nails to “breathe.”
The truth:
Nails do not breathe. The nail plate is made of non-living keratin and gets any necessary oxygen from the bloodstream, not the outside air.
Using polish or enhancements does not damage nails by restricting air. What’s important are good application techniques, high-quality products, and careful removal. Taking a break from polish is a personal choice and not a health necessity.
Myth 2: Gel and Acrylic Nails Damage Your Natural Nails
Some avoid gel or acrylic nails, fearing these could permanently harm their natural nails.
The truth:
Gel and acrylic will not damage your nails when used and removed properly. Problems usually happen from improper removal, such as pulling or prying off extensions, or aggressive filing.
Professional techniques protect the natural nail. Most damage results from poor methods rather than the actual product. With correct care, you can safely use gel and acrylic services regularly.
Myth 3: Cutting Cuticles is Essential for Nail Health
It is often thought that trimming cuticles improves nail appearance and growth.
The truth:
Cuticles shield the nail matrix against bacteria and infection. Removing them can raise the risk of infection and inflammation.
Rather than cutting, it is safer to gently push back cuticles and keep them moisturized. This prevents overgrowth and keeps nails healthy.
Myth 4: Water Soaks Make Nails Stronger
Some believe soaking nails in water or certain solutions will strengthen them.
The truth:
Prolonged soaking weakens nails, since water causes them to swell and then shrink as they dry. This repeated change in shape makes nails brittle and prone to splits.
If you need to soften cuticles, limit water exposure to a short time. For strong nails, focus on hydration using cuticle oil and maintaining a diet rich in protein and biotin.
Myth 5: White Spots Are Due to Calcium Deficiency
It is a common belief that white spots mean your diet lacks calcium or other nutrients.
The truth:
These marks, known as leukonychia, are usually the result of minor trauma to the nail, such as a bump or pressure during manicures.
White spots are harmless and will disappear as the nail grows. Nutritional deficiency is rarely the cause. Instead, prioritize balanced nutrition, but don’t be alarmed by small white marks.
Myth 6: Growing Nails Long Makes Them Stronger
Some think keeping nails long helps build strength over time.
The truth:
Long nails do not make nails stronger. In fact, they are more likely to break and snag due to greater exposure.
Nail health is not about length, but about their underlying condition. Weak nails benefit from staying shorter and using strengthening treatments as needed.
Myth 7: All Yellow Nails Are Fungal Infections
Many people immediately associate yellow nails with fungal problems.
The truth:
Most cases of yellowing are due to nail polish stains from dark colors without a base coat or from smoking.
Fungal infections may cause yellowing, but usually include additional signs like thickening or odor. If discoloration is just staining, it will grow out. Seek medical advice only if you notice other concerning symptoms.
Myth 8: Nail Hardeners Always Strengthen Nails
Products are marketed to make weak nails harder and supposedly stronger.
The truth:
Nail hardeners can sometimes make nails too rigid, making them more likely to crack. Nails are healthiest with some flexibility.
Hydrating and protecting the nails are more effective than using hardening chemicals. Cuticle oils and nutrition support natural strength.
Myth 9: Special Products Make Nails Grow Faster
There’s a belief that certain products can speed up nail growth significantly.
The truth:
Nail growth is mostly influenced by genetics, age, and general wellness. Typically, nails grow about 3 mm per month and products do not noticeably change that rate.
You can encourage healthy growth with hydration, nutrition, and gentle handling, but not through topical growth aids.
Myth 10: Nail Biting Is Harmless
Nail biting is often seen as just a nervous habit.
The truth:
Biting causes damage to the nail bed, weakens the nails, and raises infection risk. It can also affect your teeth and puts bacteria from the hands into your mouth.
To break the habit, awareness and sometimes professional help may be needed. Polished nails, special treatments with unappealing taste, or stress management strategies may also help.
Why Busting Myths Matters
Believing in nail myths can negatively affect how you care for your nails. Knowing the facts enables you to make better choices and avoid unnecessary worry.
Good nail care relies on proven methods: hydration, gentle handling, quality products, and professional services as needed.
Book Your Nail Appointment
Reliable nail care comes from honest information. Clear guidance allows you to protect your nails and avoid outdated practices that could do more harm than good.
📞 Call to book: (303) 280-0770
📍 Location: 10078 Grant St, Thornton, CO 80229
Learn more about nail care at La Muse Beauty Bar .
