I had grown out my nails beautifully after giving up my acrylics that I was getting done at the salon and focusing on my natural nails. They were healthy and I was enjoying polishing them using all the amazing brands and colors I learned about here. But because I can never leave well enough alone and have to push my luck. I decided I wanted to do my own gel. So I invested in a nail lamp and gel polish. I immediately became obsessed and was doing them constantly. Which is a horrible idea with gel because of the removal process especially. Even though I was careful and as gentle as possible it still took a toll. Now my nails are so damaged and weak that they are breaking off and have cracks starting on the sides of my nail bed. I’m keeping strengthener on them and using my cuticle oil regularly. Lesson learned the hard way 🥹
by Icy-Purpose4990
4 Comments
I’m sorry 🙁 the silver lining is, you know what to do, you have the tools for success and your nails will grow out quickly and strong! I did a big chop 8 weeks ago and I’m almost back to where I started. The time flies and it’s cool watching them come back.
Wishing you the best 💕
I don’t think they look ruined! Also, and I know people have feelings about gel, but you can certainly practice using gel in a more gentle and proper way. I use gel polish and builder gel, as well as an e-file, and my nails have never been longer and stronger.
In the meantime, utilize jojoba oil on your cuticles to speed up growth and promote strength.
Put a thin layer of builder gel on them for strength and protection. Let that grow out and do small and neat in fills until your natural nails have grown out.
I’m sorry and fwiw I was there about a year ago too – filed my own nails way too thin, did acrylic overlay for a while to help with the pain from thin nails, and now growing out my natural nubs.
You’ll get back to beautiful nails soon, and welcome to this sub. I’m so surprised at how much nail polish has improved over the last decade.