Acrylic nails can look stunning, adding length, strength, and instant glamour. But after removal, it’s common to notice your natural nails feeling thin, weak, or brittle. At Hera Grace, we believe beautiful nails should always be healthy nails first.

If your nails need a little recovery time, here’s how to repair and restore them properly.

Why Do Nails Feel Damaged After Acrylics?

It’s important to understand that acrylics themselves don’t automatically “ruin” nails. Damage usually happens due to:

  • Improper removal (peeling or pulling them off)

  • Over-filing of the natural nail

  • Long-term wear without breaks

  • Lack of aftercare between appointments

When acrylics are removed incorrectly, layers of your natural nail plate can be stripped away, leaving nails thin and sensitive.

The good news? With the right care, nails can fully recover.

Step 1: Never Peel or Pick

If you still have remaining acrylic product, resist the temptation to peel it off. This causes the most damage.

Professional removal ensures:

  • Minimal stress to the natural nail

  • No unnecessary thinning

  • Proper reshaping and conditioning

At Hera Grace, we always recommend safe, professional removal to protect your natural nail health.

Step 2: Trim and Shape Gently

After removal, your nails may feel fragile. Keep them short while they recover.

  • File gently in one direction

  • Avoid aggressive buffing

  • Choose a soft, rounded shape to prevent breakage

Shorter nails reduce the risk of splitting and tearing.

Step 3: Hydrate Daily

Hydration is essential for nail repair.

Apply:

  • Cuticle oil at least twice daily

  • A rich hand cream after washing hands

  • Nourishing treatments with vitamin E or jojoba oil

Healthy nails start with healthy cuticles. Well-moisturised nails are more flexible and less likely to snap.

Step 4: Use a Strengthening Treatment (But Not Forever)

A nail strengthener can help temporarily while your nails grow out. Look for formulas that:

  • Reinforce weak layers

  • Add protection without making nails overly hard

However, avoid using hardening treatments long-term, as overly rigid nails can become more prone to snapping.

Step 5: Give Your Nails a Break

If your nails feel particularly thin:

  • Avoid acrylics for 6–8 weeks

  • Opt for a strengthening BIAB or builder gel treatment instead

  • Keep polish minimal while they regain thickness

At Hera Grace, we often recommend a gentler overlay option during the recovery phase to protect and support growth.

Step 6: Support Growth from Within

Healthy nail growth also depends on overall wellbeing.

  • Stay hydrated

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in protein

  • Consider biotin supplements (after consulting a professional)

Nails grow approximately 3mm per month, so full recovery takes time and patience.

How Long Does Nail Recovery Take?

Mild damage may improve within a few weeks. More severe thinning may take 3–4 months for the nail to completely grow out.

Consistency is key. Daily care makes a significant difference.