Hybrid nails are very durable and resistant to damage, but this does not mean that they do not require any care. In order to enjoy them for as long as possible and not damage the nail plate, it is necessary to follow a few rules for caring for and removing hybrids. In this article you will learn how to properly care for hybrid nails, how to recognize the warning signs that indicate the need to remove the hybrid, and how to remove hybrid nail polish from your nails yourself or professionally.
How to take care of hybrid nails?
Hybrid nails are much more resistant to damage than traditional nail polishes, but they are not indestructible. Certainly, if you have a problem with very weakened nails, or are hoping for high durability, it is better to opt for a gel nails. However, they have a bunch of supporters and opponents. To maintain their beautiful appearance and the health of the nail plate, it is important to remember a few things:
- Do not bite or peel your hybrid nails. This can cause the polish to come off the nail plate, and damage the plate or cuticles. If you want to shorten or improve the shape of your nails, use a nail file or nail clippers.
- Do not use hybrid nails as tools. Avoid opening cans, scratching labels or removing stickers with your nails. This can cause the nail to break, crack or detach.
- Do not expose hybrid nails to strong detergents, solvents or chemicals. These can weaken or dull the hybrid polish. Use protective gloves if you come in contact with such substances.
- Moisturize your cuticles and the nail shaft with a cuticle conditioner or oil. This will prevent dryness and cracking of the cuticles, as well as improve blood circulation and nourishment of the nail plate.
- Use a hand cream or moisturizing lotion. This will prevent dryness and irritation of the skin on your hands, and make them smooth and soft.
- Pay attention to the condition of your hybrid nails. If you notice any changes in the color, shape, thickness or texture of your nail plate, it's a sign that you should remove your hybrid polish and check the health of your nails.
How to recognize the warning signs that indicate the need to remove the hybrid?
Hybrid nails can last up to 4 weeks on your nails without chipping or scratching, but that doesn't mean you should wear them that long. Wearing a hybrid for too long can have a negative impact on the condition of the nail plate and cuticles. Therefore, you should change your manicure regularly and give your nails a break from polish. Here are some warning signs that indicate you should take off your hybrid polish:
- Peeling of the polish from the nail plate. If the polish begins to peel away from the plate, it's a sign that the polish is losing adhesion and no longer protecting the nail. This can be caused by wearing the hybrid for too long, improper application or damage to the nail. Don't try to stick the polish back on - it's better to take it off and apply a new one.
- Fracture, crack or detachment of the nail. If the nail is mechanically damaged, remove the hybrid varnish from the entire plate and disinfect the wound. Do not try to repair the nail with hybrid varnish - this can worsen the situation and cause infection or fungus.
- Changes in the color, shape, thickness or texture of the nail plate. If you notice that the nail plate is changing under the influence of hybrid polish, this is a sign that it may be harmful or allergenic to it. This can be caused by too frequent use of hybrid, improper removal or an allergic reaction to the ingredients of the polish. Don't ignore such changes - remove the hybrid varnish and consult a doctor or beautician.
How to remove hybrid polish from nails yourself or professionally?
Removing the hybrid polish from the nails is a very important part of hybrid care. This should not be done by force, biting or peeling off the polish, as this can damage the nail plate and cuticles. There are two ways to safely remove hybrid polish from nails: do it yourself at home or professionally at a salon.
Removing hybrid varnish at home
To take off your hybrid polish at home, you'll need a few accessories and products, which you can buy at an online or stationary nail cosmetics store. Here's a list of essentials:
- Nail file - used to file off the top layer of nail polish
- acetone or hybrid removal fluid - used to dissolve the varnish
- Cosmetic cotton - used to soak in acetone or liquid
- aluminum foil - used to wrap fingers with cotton
- wooden or metal stick - used for scraping off varnish residues
- buffer or polishing block - used to polish the nail plate
- Cuticle conditioner - used to moisturize and regenerate cuticles
Step by step how to remove hybrid varnish at home
Step 1: File off the top layer of paint
- File the top layer of the polish with a nail file. Do not file off all the polish, only the shiny surface. Be careful not to damage the nail plate.
- Filing the top layer of varnish will make it easier to dissolve with acetone or liquid.
Step 2: Soak the cotton in acetone or liquid
- Soak a piece of cosmetic cotton in acetone or liquid
- For taking off the hybrid. The cotton should be well soaked, but not dripping.
- Acetone or hybrid removal fluid contains substances that dissolve hybrid polish. You can use regular acetone or a special hybrid removal liquid that is gentler on your nails and cuticles.
Step 3: Wrap your fingers in aluminum foil
- Apply a piece of soaked cotton to the nail plate, so that it covers the entire polish.
- Wrap your fingers in aluminum foil, so that the cotton is well pressed against the nail and does not fall off.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each nail.
- Wrapping your fingers in aluminum foil will prevent the acetone or liquid from evaporating and speed up the paint stripping process.
Step 4: Wait the appropriate time
- Wait about 10-15 minutes for the acetone or liquid to work on the hybrid polish and dissolve it.
- Do not remove the aluminum foil before this time, as the varnish may still be undissolved and difficult to remove.
Step 5: Remove residual varnish
- Remove the aluminum foil and cotton from one finger.
- Scratch off the remaining polish with a wooden or metal stick. Do not use a file or pliers for this, as you may damage the nail plate. Don't scratch too hard so that you don't injure the cuticles or nail shaft.
- Repeat steps 5.1 and 5.2 for each nail.
- If there are still some traces of polish left on your nails, you can again soak the cotton in acetone or liquid and apply it to the nail for a few seconds, then scrape off the rest of the polish.
Step 6: Polish the nail plate
- Polish the nail plate with a buffer or polishing block to remove any bumps and restore the natural shine.
- Do not use a file for this, as you may dull the nail plate too much.
Step 7: Moisturize your cuticles
- Apply the cuticle conditioner to the cuticles and nail shaft, then gently massage it in. The conditioner will moisturize and regenerate the cuticles after the hybrid varnish removal procedure.
Good luck!
