Why Do My Nails Hurt After Getting Them Done?

Do your fingernails ache or throb after you get them done at the salon? Sharp or lingering pain after a manicure is common, but it’s not normal, and you don’t have to live with it. Understanding why nails hurt happens and how to care for your nails properly can help you avoid discomfort and enjoy beautiful, reusable press on nails worry-free.

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Understanding Your Nail Anatomy

Your fingernails are made up of thin layers of keratin, the same protein that makes up your hair and the outer layer of your skin. Underneath the hard nail plate is the nail bed, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and the matrix – the area where new nail cells are formed.

The cuticle is the thin skin that overlaps the nail plate and protects the matrix. Cuticles prevent bacteria from entering and help keep nails strong and healthy. Any damage to these delicate tissues can cause inflammation, pain, and infection.

Common Causes of Nails Hurt After A Manicure

Getting your nails professionally done involves a lot of manipulation – pushing cuticles, filing, buffing, clipping. All this can traumatize the nails if done too harshly. Here are some of the most common causes of nail pain after a salon visit:

Overfilling – Aggressive use of the nail file can wear down nails until they’re thin and weak. This exposes the nerves underneath, making nails extremely sensitive.
Cuticle cutting – Improperly cutting or pushing back cuticles tears this protective skin, leaving you open to pain and infection.
Acrylic or gel damage – Soaking off gels or acrylics incorrectly can take layers of your natural nails with it. The remaining nail is brittle and sore.
Allergic reactions – You may react to chemicals in nail polish, glues, acrylics or gels. Allergies cause redness, swelling, throbbing pain, and itching.
Ingrown nails – Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can cause them to dig painfully into your skin.
Bacterial infections – Reusing dirty nail tools can introduce bacteria and fungi that cause painful infections under and around the nails.

Quick Remedies To Relieve Nails Hurt

If your nails are hurting after your latest manicure, there are a few simple things you can do at home to ease the discomfort:

Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling.
Apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth to numb sore nails for 10-15 minutes at a time.
Soak nails in warm water with Epsom salt to draw out inflammation.
Brush on over-the-counter antiseptic creams to prevent infection.
Use cuticle oil with vitamin E to moisturize and help heal damage.
File down any sharp edges or snags with a fine emery board.
Keep nails short to avoid pressure on the surrounding skin.

If home care isn’t helping within a few days, see your doctor to treat any underlying infections and get proper medical care. Leaving nail problems untreated can lead to persistent pain or deformity.

How To Prevent Nails Hurt After Your Next Manicure

While occasional nail discomfort isn’t unusual, you shouldn’t have to suffer every time you treat yourself to fabulous nails. Here are some tips to discuss with your manicurist to avoid trauma:

Examine Nails Beforehand

Point out any existing cracks, hangnails, or susceptibility to ingrown nails so the manicurist can be careful in those areas. Mention any sensitivities or allergies.

Request Gentle Cuticle Care

Ask for cuticles to be softly pushed back instead of cut. Cuts should not make you bleed. Proper cuticle care keeps bacteria out.

Don’t Overfile Nails

Thin, papery nails are more prone to damage. Tell the technician not to file down past the nail’s edge into the corners.

Use Safe Acrylic/Gel Removal

Chemicals shouldn’t burn, and soaking should be minimized. Trimming off enhancements reduces stress on your real nails.

Disinfect Tools Properly

Make sure your salon sterilizes its tools between clients. Bring your own if you have any doubts.

Apply Protective Base Coats

Base coats reinforce nails and shield them from damage during polish application. They also prevent stains.

Enjoy Pain-Free, Pretty Nails

Don’t let the occasional manicure mishap stop you from accentuating your hands with gorgeous nail looks. Understanding how to avoid trauma to your nails means you can wear fabulous press on nails or salon polish worry-free. If you ever do overdo it, try the home remedies above for relief. With proper precautions, having beautiful nails can be comfortable, convenient, and healthy.

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