Getting acrylic nails for the first time? You’re not alone! At Vals Beauty Hub, we hear the same questions every day from clients across Ottawa and Gatineau. Whether you’re worried about your first night’s sleep or wondering how long your new nails will last, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into the most common acrylic nail questions we get from our Ottawa and Gatineau clients.
How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last Before Needing Fills?
Your acrylic nails will need fills every 2-3 weeks. This is normal! As your natural nails grow, you’ll see a gap at the base. The exact timing depends on how fast your nails grow and how well you care for them.
Many of our Ottawa clients ask if they can stretch it to 4 weeks. While possible, waiting too long can weaken your acrylics and make them more likely to break.
Pro tip: Book your next fill appointment before you leave the salon. This keeps you on track and ensures you get your preferred time slot.
Can I Shower Immediately After Getting Acrylics?
Yes, you can shower right after getting acrylic nails! Your nails are fully cured when you leave the salon. The water won’t damage them.
However, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Use lukewarm water instead of hot water
- Wear gloves when using harsh soaps or shampoos
- Pat your hands dry gently
Many Gatineau clients worry about this, but there’s no waiting period needed. Your acrylics are ready for normal activities right away.
Why Do My Acrylic Nails Hurt on the First Day?
It’s normal to feel some discomfort on your first day with acrylics. Your nail beds are adjusting to the new length and weight. The feeling usually goes away within 24-48 hours.
The pain might be from:
- Pressure on your nail beds
- Getting used to the new length
- Minor filing during the application
If the pain is severe or lasts more than two days, contact your nail technician. This could mean the acrylics are too thick or there’s another issue that needs fixing.
Can I Cut My Acrylic Nails Shorter at Home?
We don’t recommend cutting acrylic nails at home. Acrylics are much harder than natural nails and need special tools. Using regular nail clippers can cause cracks or splits that are expensive to fix.
If your nails feel too long, visit a professional nail salon in Ottawa or Gatineau. We can safely trim and reshape them for you. This usually costs much less than fixing damaged acrylics.
Remember: It’s better to start with shorter nails and get used to them gradually.
What Happens If I Lose an Acrylic Nail?
Don’t panic if you lose an acrylic nail! This happens sometimes, especially if you catch it on something.
Here’s what to do:
- Clean the area gently
- Keep your natural nail dry
- Book an appointment as soon as possible
- Don’t try to glue it back yourself
Most nail salons in Ottawa and Gatineau can replace a single nail quickly. The cost is usually much less than a full set.
Can I Get Acrylics If I Bite My Nails?
Absolutely! Acrylic nails are great for nail biters. They give you something strong to resist the urge to bite.
Your nail technician might need to:
- Use nail forms instead of tips
- Apply extra primer for better adhesion
- Start with shorter lengths
Many of our clients in Ottawa and Gatineau have successfully stopped biting their nails thanks to acrylics. The hard surface makes biting uncomfortable and helps break the habit.
How Do I Sleep With New Long Acrylic Nails?
Sleeping with new long acrylics takes some getting used to. Here are tips that work for our Gatineau and Ottawa clients:
First few nights:
- Sleep on your back if possible
- Use a silk pillowcase (less catching)
- Keep your hands outside the covers
- Avoid sleeping on your stomach
Getting dressed:
- Button shirts before putting them on
- Use the pads of your fingers, not the tips
- Take your time with zippers and clasps
Most people adjust within a week. If you’re still struggling after two weeks, consider going shorter for your next set.
Can Acrylic Nails Be Repaired If They Crack?
Yes! Small cracks can often be repaired at your local nail salon. The sooner you get it fixed, the better.
Types of repairs:
- Surface cracks: Usually quick and inexpensive
- Deep cracks: May need a patch or replacement
- Breaks at the nail bed: Require immediate attention
Don’t ignore a cracked acrylic nail. It can lead to lifting, water damage, or injury to your natural nail underneath.
Taking Care of Your Acrylic Nails
Now that we’ve answered the big questions, here are some care tips:
Daily care:
- Moisturize your cuticles daily
- Wear gloves for cleaning
- Use your knuckles to open cans
- Apply cuticle oil before bed
What to avoid:
- Using your nails as tools
- Picking at the lifting edges
- Harsh chemicals without gloves
- Biting or chewing
When to See a Professional
Contact your nail technician if you notice:
- Severe pain that won’t go away
- Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus)
- Significant lifting
- Allergic reactions
Finding Quality Acrylic Nail Services
When looking for acrylic nail services in Ottawa and Gatineau, consider:
- Cleanliness of the salon
- Quality of products used
- Experience of technicians
- Client reviews and recommendations
At Vals Beauty Hub, we serve clients throughout Ottawa and Gatineau with professional acrylic nail services. Our experienced technicians answer all your questions and ensure you leave feeling confident about your new nails.
Ready for Your Acrylic Nails?
Getting acrylic nails should be exciting, not stressful. Armed with answers to these common questions, you’re ready to enjoy beautiful, long-lasting nails.
Whether you’re in Ottawa or Gatineau, professional nail care makes all the difference. Book your appointment today and experience the confidence that comes with perfect acrylic nails.
Remember, every client is different. Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your appointment. A good nail technician will always take time to address your concerns and help you feel comfortable with your new acrylics.
Looking for more nail care tips? Check out our complete guide to nail costs or learn about gel nails for your next appointment.