Getting a longer manicure entails using a good adhesion product; you might have come across a nail technician using super glue to fix fake nails for you, and the question, “Can you use super glue on nails?” comes to your mind.
Yes, super glue can be used on nails, but it is not the best option and needs to be used with extreme caution, as it is not primarily designed to be used on nails.
Although super glue can be used to perform the function of nail glue, there are some adverse effects from using super glue, and I will be sharing them in this article. I will also share tips on how to use super glue safely and other relevant information on the use of super glue on nails.
Is It Safe To Use Super Glue On Nails?
Super glue, also known as cyanoacrylate adhesive, is a strong and fast-drying adhesive and is not intended for use on the human body, including nails.
Super glue is not a safe option to attach fake nails as it is made with harsh chemicals that can lead to skin irritation and nail brittleness when it comes in contact with the skin or cuticles.
Therefore, if you run out of nail glue and have no option but to use super glue, use it with utmost care to prevent damaging the natural nails.
Effects Of Using Super Glue On Nails
1. Damage to natural nails
The major setback about using super glue on nails is that it can easily damage your natural nails. When you misapply the bond or use excessive glue, it can lead to damage to the natural nails, as super glue is harsh on natural nails.
It may strip away the top layers of your nails, leaving them thin, weak, and prone to damage. This may include thinning, peeling, or brittleness.
2. Difficulty in removal
Another reason why super glue is not a safe adhesive to use on nails is because it can bond quickly and firmly. Super glue is designed to form strong bonds, making it challenging to remove from your nails without causing damage. Attempting to remove it improperly can lead to further nail damage.
3. Uneven application
Using super glue to fix fake nails can be tricky to apply evenly, which may result in an uneven or bumpy appearance of artificial nails. Moreover, once you use super glue, you can’t make any changes as they dry quickly. Super glue has a thicker consistency than nail glue, making it more challenging to apply accurately.
4. Toxic fumes
Superglue emits fumes that can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities or over an extended period. It’s important to use super glue in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling the fumes.
5. Allergic reactions
Another reason you should avoid using super glue on nails is that it’s easy to get super glue on the skin surrounding the nails accidentally, and the adhesive can bond to the skin quickly, making it difficult to remove without irritation.
Also, superglue contains chemicals that can cause allergic reactions or skin sensitivities when it comes into contact with your skin or cuticles.
6. Lack of flexibility
Nail adhesives, especially those designed for nail applications, are formulated to be flexible, allowing for the natural movements of your nails. Super glue can become brittle and may not hold up well when nails bend or flex.
Safety Tips For Using Super Glue On Nails
While using super glue on nails is generally not recommended due to the potential risks and adverse effects mentioned earlier, if you find yourself in a situation where you must use super glue on your nails (e.g., a temporary nail repair), it’s crucial to take precautions to minimize the risks.
Here are some tips for using super glue as safely as possible on nails to minimize the negative effect:
- If you must use super glue on your nails, opt for a product specifically designed for medical or skin contact. These formulations are typically less harsh and less likely to cause allergic reactions or skin irritation.
- Before applying super glue to your nails, do a patch test on a small skin area to check for allergic reactions or irritation. Do not use super glue on your nails if you notice redness, itching, or any adverse reactions.
- Use a minimal amount of super glue to avoid excess dripping or pooling. Apply the glue sparingly to the area where you need it.
- Use an applicator with a fine tip to control the glue’s placement and prevent it from contacting your skin or cuticles.
- Take your time when applying super glue to ensure accurate placement and avoid making a mess. Hold the broken nail or nail extension until the glue dries completely.
- Ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area to minimize inhalation of fumes.
- When removing the artificial nails, soak them in acetone or use an acetone-based nail polish remover to weaken the glue bond. Do not force or pry the nails off.
3 Best Nail Glue Alternatives To Use On Nail?
If you find yourself in a situation where nail glue is not available for you to use, here are some DIY alternatives you can quickly get instead of using super glue:
1. Gel nail polish
A DIY alternative for nail glue is gel polish, a great substitute for nail glue. You can easily cure your gel nails under UV light to give you an adhesive for your press-on nails. Gel polish can be as firm as nail glue and lasts long if adequately cured and taken care of.
2. Acrylic mixture
Another alternative to nail glue is the mixture of liquid acrylic and powder acrylic. These mixtures can be used not only to form nails but also to serve as adhesive for press-on nails, and it is well known for their longevity.
It can last as long as three weeks when the manicure is properly made and maintained, but it is also harsh on the natural nails just like nail glue.
3. Nail tabs
Nail tabs are double-sided tape that hold the press-on nails to your natural nails. These tabs can be found in the same pack as the press-on nails, or you can also get them separately, and they are usually pre-cut into different sizes.
Nail tabs are gentle on your natural nails, and unlike nail glue, you can easily remove them by soaking them in warm soapy water for five minutes.
Final Words
While super glue can be used on nails for artificial nail application, it must be used cautiously to avoid potential damage to natural nails, skin irritation, and other harmful effects. Proper application and removal techniques are crucial to minimize the risks of using super glue on nails.
However, you can use other safe DIY alternatives like nail glue instead of super glue to protect your natural nails from danger. Remember that superglue is not formulated for any part of the human body.
