Helpful Tips For Maintaining Artificial Nails...
It's a fact that not all women are blessed with long, beautiful, healthy fingernails. But just because you weren't born with them doesn't mean you can't have them.
Gone are the days of waiting weeks or even months to grow nails to a desired length. Nowadays those who yearn for the long look can have it by simply using artificial nails such as press-ons or sculptured nails (also known as acrylic) when flaunting their fingers.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends taking the following precautions when using artificial nails to esthetically enhance your hands:
When in doubt, test...
If there is any question about sensitivity to the materials used in artificial nails, have one nail done as a test and wait a few days to see if a negative reaction occurs.
Heal and then apply...
If the natural nail or skin around the nail is infected or irritated, wait before applying the artificial nail. It's important to let the infection heal first so that the problem doesn't become worse.
Read carefully...
Before you apply do-it-yourself nails, read the directions carefully. Save the ingredient list for your doctor in case an allergic reaction or other injury develops.
Use tender loving care...
Even though your artificial nails may be stronger than your own, it's important to remember that they can still break and separate, so treat them with care. Find new ways to do ordinary tasks, like using a pencil to dial or press the numbers on the phone.
Keep it clean...
If an artificial nail separates, dip the fingertip into rubbing alcohol to clean the space between the natural and artificial nail before reattaching the artificial nail. This will help prevent infection.
All glues are not the same...
Never use household glues for nail repairs. Use only products intended for nail use, and follow the directions carefully.
Even nails need a break...
Don't wear artificial nails for longer than three months at a time. Remove them for one month to give natural nails a rest.
Call the doctor...
If you suspect that an allergic reaction or infection has occurred, see a dermatologist immediately.
COPYRIGHT 2005 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group
