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Acrylic nails have been around for decades. Used to add length and thickness to your natural nails, they’re also super customizable in their shapes and colors. Though their popularity continues to rise, many people have begun to question whether they’re safe to wear. The short answer is…yes and no. Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City breaks down the pros and cons of wearing acrylic nails for us ahead. 

Acrylic nails are a type of artificial extensions that are applied to your natural nails. Created using a combination of liquid monomers and powder polymers, the combined chemicals form a paste that hardens with air exposure. At this stage, the nail technician can begin to mold the paste in layers over your natural nails until they reach your desired length and shape (i.e. almond, coffin, etc.)

Yes…and no. See, there are a few factors at play here, which we’ll get more into below. 

Despite their popularity and certain, undeniable pros (like the ability to customize them and their longevity), there’s no denying the cons of wearing acrylic nails either. Here are five ways acrylic nails can cause damage to your natural ones. 

Yes, if you’re ready to say goodbye to acrylic nails, but still want to rock a long coffin style, there are gentler alternatives to try: 

Shop Press-on Nails: Kiss ($9); Olive & June ($12); Glamnetic ($15); Chillhouse ($16); Static Nails ($18)

Shop the Polishes: Olive & June ($9); Sally Hansen ($9); Dear Sundays ($18)

At the end of the day, they’re your nails, so if you’re set on rocking acrylics, consider these six tips for minimizing potential damage:

Bottom line: Whether you decide to wear acrylics, rock press ons or go for a classic mani, don’t skip out on giving your tips the care they deserve. OK, now who’s ready to pick out some nail art?

RELATED: From Price to Quality to Longevity: Here’s Your Official Guide to Every Type of Manicure

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