Using super glue for applying fake nails might seem like a convenient and strong alternative to nail glue, but it’s important to understand the implications and potential risks associated with this choice. While both super glue (cyanoacrylate) and nail glues are similar in chemical composition, they are formulated differently for their intended uses. Here’s what happens and the considerations to keep in mind if you use super glue for fake nails:
Immediate Adhesion
- Strong Bond: Super glue creates a very strong bond quickly, which means your fake nails will adhere firmly to your natural nails. This can be seen as an advantage if you’re looking for a durable application. However, this strong bond can also become a problem when it comes to removal.
Potential Risks and Damage
- Damage to Natural Nails: The strong bond formed by super glue can cause significant damage to the natural nails during the removal process. Removing fake nails applied with super glue often requires force, which can lead to the top layer of the natural nail being ripped off, resulting in thin, weakened, and damaged nails.
- Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions: Super glue can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. If it comes into contact with the skin around the nail, it can lead to redness, irritation, and in some cases, a chemical burn. Repeated exposure increases the risk of developing a severe allergic reaction.
- Difficulty in Removal: Given its strength, super glue makes the removal process of fake nails much more challenging and potentially harmful compared to using standard nail glue. Nail glue dissolvers may not be as effective on super glue, requiring you to use more aggressive methods to remove the nails, which increases the risk of damage to the natural nails.
- Potential for Gluing Wrongly: The fast-drying nature of super glue means there’s little room for error during application. If the fake nail is positioned incorrectly, adjusting it can be difficult or impossible without causing damage.
Health Concerns
- Toxicity: While both super glue and nail glue emit fumes, using super glue in a poorly ventilated area can lead to inhalation of stronger fumes, which may cause respiratory irritation and other health issues.
- Accidental Bonding: Super glue can bond skin instantly. Accidental contact with fingers can result in fingers getting stuck together or to the fake nail. Removing this bond without causing skin damage can be difficult.
Legal and Safety Regulations
- Product Intended Use: Nail glues are specifically designed and tested for use on nails and comply with cosmetic safety regulations. Super glue, however, is not intended for cosmetic use and has not been tested for safety in such applications. Using a product contrary to its intended use can expose you to legal and health risks.
Conclusion
While using super glue for fake nails might seem like a quick and strong solution, the potential risks and damage to your natural nails, skin, and overall health make it an inadvisable choice. It’s always best to use products as they are intended to be used. Nail glues are formulated to bond fake nails securely while minimizing damage to the natural nails and surrounding skin. For the health and safety of your nails and skin, investing in the right products designed for nail application is crucial.