Why Do My Nails Hurt After Getting Acrylics?

If you just got acrylic nails and are trying to enjoy them but can’t stop feeling pain and discomfort, you’re not alone.

Most people will experience pain to some degree after getting acrylic nails done.

This can be due to many reasons, from over-filling to too thick of an application.

The good news is that the pain will dissipate within 24 hours most of the time.

You can do certain things to help ease the pain during that time.

Below, you will find everything you want to know about why your nails hurt after getting acrylics and how to minimize the pain.

Why Do My Nails Hurt After Getting Acrylics?

Some pain is normal after an acrylic nail application. But why?

There are actually six leading causes of acrylic nail pain.

1. Over-Filing

Filing is a critical part of creating acrylic nails. Filing will ensure proper adhesion and longevity, ensuring your nails last for six to eight weeks.

That’s great, and all, but the problem arises when a nail tech over-files.

Over-filing typically occurs with inexperienced nail technicians and will cause pain, especially on those with naturally thin nails.

The solution? Give some time for your nail bed to grow back. This could take a few days. If the pain persists for longer than a week, you might consider having them removed.

2. Sealing Over the Nails

Acrylic nails will dry over time and create a seal over your natural nail.

While this seal means that your artificial nails are locked-in and won’t be as prone to damage or mishaps, it can also cause a tightening sensation that may be somewhat painful.

The tightening sensation is very common and happens to most people who wear acrylic nails, especially if it’s their first or second time getting them done.

Your nail beds should only hurt for a few hours after application and may be more pronounced if you opt for long acrylic nails.

3. Too-Thick Application

Sore nails can be caused by too thick of an application.

Now, this shouldn’t happen as long as you are going to a reputable nail salon with an experienced nail technician.

An experienced nail technician knows that a thin layer is all you need and will create a more natural appearance.

Someone without a lot of experience may use too much product, which adds weight to the natural nails, ultimately making your nails hurt.

4. Cuticles Pushed Back Too Far

Pushing back your cuticles is a part of the acrylic nail application, just like filing the nail beds.

This will never be a “pleasant” experience, even if you opt for an experienced nail technician that uses cuticle oil.

Not only will pushing the cuticles cause uncomfortable pain during the process, but your natural nails might hurt afterward, too.

5. Bad Nail Glue

The nail industry has banned some glue for acrylic nails because they cause pain and irritation, but some nail technicians still use them.

Needless to say, if your acrylic nail hurts, it might be due to bad nail glue.

Double-check what kind of nail glues are used by your nail salons.

The other issue is an allergic reaction. Even if your tech uses a “good” nail glue, you may be allergic to it.

6. Natural Reaction

Is it your first time getting acrylic nails? Then your body may simply be reacting to having something “new” on top of your natural nails.

This is perfectly normal for newbies just stepping their fingernails into the acrylic nail game.

The pain shouldn’t last long, and your natural nails will quickly get accustomed to them.

How to Stop Acrylic Nails From Hurting

So, now you know what can cause your nails to hurt, and you know that most of the time, it’s completely normal when your nails hurt the first few hours or days after application.

That doesn’t mean you should suffer from painful nails, though. If your nails feel sore, consider trying one of these simple tricks.

1. Soak the Affected Fingers in Cold Water

If you feel pain and want to get rid of it quickly, fill a bowl with cold water and a couple of ice cubes.

Soak your fingernails in the water for about five minutes. This should help to ease the pain.

2. Apply Moisturizer

Keeping the area moisturized after the acrylic application is critical. You can use any kind of moisturizer you have on hand.

Choose store-bought hand creams, or use natural oils or aloe vera gel.

3. Opt for Press-Ons

If your acrylic nail hurt doesn’t go away, you may have to remove your acrylic nails entirely.

Does that mean you’re destined for a natural nail that’s short and unglamorous?

Of course, not! If you’re suffering from weak nails or are tired of feeling pain after getting fake nails applied, you might consider press-on nails.

Press-on nails are one of many fashion trends we’re thrilled about.

With press-ons, you can opt for shorter nails, a practical length, or long, look-at-me nails without the pain or nuisance of getting acrylics.

They look lovely, and your nail surface will thank you.

FAQs

Are your nails supposed to hurt after acrylics?

Unfortunately, pain is common after getting acrylics for a few reasons. They will feel sore shortly after application.

However, if the pain lingers longer than 24 hours, you might want to visit the same nail technician who initially created your acrylic nails.

How long does it take for nails to heal after acrylics?

It depends on what kind of damage you’re dealing with. As a general rule of thumb, you should take at least four weeks in-between any kind of manicure.