5 Common Myths About Nail Care Debunked

When it comes to nail care, there’s a lot of information out there — some of it helpful, and some of it downright misleading. To help you make informed choices and keep your nails healthy and beautiful, we’re here to debunk five of the most common myths about nail care.

Myth 1: White Spots on Nails Mean a Calcium Deficiency

The Truth: White spots on nails are usually not related to calcium deficiency. These spots, also known as leukonychia, are often caused by minor trauma to the nail bed or matrix. For example, accidentally bumping your nail against a hard surface can lead to these harmless marks. In rare cases, they might indicate a mild zinc deficiency or an allergic reaction to nail polish or other products.

What to Do: Avoid excessive pressure on your nails and use high-quality, non-toxic nail products to minimize the risk of irritation.

Myth 2: Cutting Cuticles is Necessary for Healthy Nails

The Truth: Cutting your cuticles is not only unnecessary but can also be harmful. Cuticles act as a protective barrier, preventing bacteria and other harmful organisms from entering the nail bed. Cutting them can increase the risk of infection and damage nail growth.

What to Do: Instead of cutting your cuticles, gently push them back using a cuticle pusher and keep them moisturized with cuticle oil or cream.

Myth 3: Nails Need to "Breathe"

The Truth: Nails don’t have lungs and don’t need to "breathe." They are made of keratin, a protein that doesn’t require oxygen from the air. All the nutrients your nails need come from your bloodstream, not the external environment. Taking breaks from polish won’t help your nails "breathe," but it can prevent potential damage from prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals in some products.

What to Do: Use a nourishing base coat and opt for nail polish removers that are acetone-free to keep your nails healthy.

Myth 4: Gel and Acrylic Nails Always Damage Natural Nails

The Truth: While gel and acrylic nails can damage natural nails if applied or removed incorrectly, they are safe when done properly by a professional. Most damage occurs during improper removal, such as peeling or picking off the product, which can strip layers of your natural nail.

What to Do: Always have gel or acrylic nails applied and removed by a trained nail technician. If you’re doing it yourself, follow recommended steps and invest in quality tools.

Myth 5: Biotin Supplements Are a Quick Fix for Weak Nails

The Truth: Biotin, a type of B vitamin, can help strengthen nails over time, but it’s not an overnight solution. It takes months for a nail to grow out completely, so you’ll need to be patient to see results. Additionally, if your nails are weak due to external damage (e.g., overuse of harsh chemicals), biotin alone won’t solve the issue.

What to Do: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and protect your nails from external damage by wearing gloves during chores and avoiding harsh chemicals.

Nail care doesn’t have to be complicated, but separating fact from fiction is key to achieving strong, healthy nails. By debunking these myths, we hope you’re better equipped to make informed decisions about your nail care routine. Remember, consistency and proper techniques are the secrets to nail health and beauty!

Do you have a favorite nail care tip or question? Let us know in the comments below!