NEWS - Imagine your horror when you discover mold growing under your acrylic nails.
Gross, right?
Well, this nightmare became a reality for one woman, who recently took to TikTok to share her frightening experience.
With over 400,000 views in just a few weeks, her video is a cautionary tale for anyone who loves a good manicure.
But could this be a result of a manicure mistake?
Warning: Do Not Keep Infilling
She shared a video on her TikTok page, @cleancookfun, with a write-up that says: “Your sign not to keep infilling and just give your nails a break.”
The video shows the woman's hands with the acrylic removed, revealing hints of green mold growing on top of her actual nails.
The accompanying write-up warns against the dangers of constantly infilling acrylic nails and encourages taking a break.
This alarming discovery has struck a chord with many TikTok users, with many chiming in to share that they too have experienced mold growing under their acrylic nails.
TikTok users came together to offer various explanations and remedies for the issue, sparking important conversations and raising awareness about the importance of proper nail care.
@cleancookfun Feel so manky 😂 #fyp #trending #viral #nails #infill #fungalinfection ♬ stanky ahhh - Edel’s Z lmaoo
Possible Causes Of The Mold Growth
What are the possible causes of mold growing under acrylic nails? The following factors may contribute to the growth of mold:
Moisture
Fixing acrylic nails is a delicate process that requires precision and care.
The combination of adhesive and powder must be applied just right, or else the risk of a fungal infection increases.
In fact, if there are any cracks or missteps in the application, you might just find yourself with an unexpected and unpleasant surprise.
As time goes on, moisture can build up between the acrylic and your natural nail, providing a perfect breeding ground for mold.
Don't let this happen to you - pay attention to the details during your acrylic nail application!
Not Giving Your Nails A Break
When it comes to acrylic nails, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing.
If you're someone who loves keeping their acrylics filled on a regular basis, you may be doing more harm than good.
The repeated application of acrylics, without giving your nails proper breathing room, can create a moist environment in which fungi thrive.
This can lead to a fungal infection that not only ruins your manicure but can also be uncomfortable and potentially harmful.
So, it's crucial to keep a balance and give your nails a break in between fills to prevent any unwanted growth.
What To Do If You Have Mold Under Acrylic Nails
If you spot green growth under your acrylic nails, don't panic. Healthline breaks down a variety of ways to treat it.
One way is to first safely remove the artificial nails. Then, give your natural nails a good scrub with soap and water to get rid of any lingering mold.
It is also recommended to take a break from acrylics for a bit to let your nails recover.
Or, opt for a natural remedy with vinegar. Mix a solution of warm water and vinegar (with more water than vinegar) and soak your nails for a few minutes to help prevent future fungal growth.
Reaction From Social Media Users
A lot of TikTok users reacted to the video and left their opinions in the comment section.
Some nail manicure lovers used this as an opportunity to give advice on how to prevent fungal growth, while others stated the cause of it.
“You don’t have a good nail tech, this happens when moisture gets under the acrylic. So they should have filled any cracked/split acrylic down,” one user said.
"This isn't due to the nail tech usually," another replied.
“If your set ever happens to lift again and you can’t make an appointment for some reason blow dry the lifted area on cool to help prevent!” another user suggested.
Don't let neglectful habits compromise the health of your nails. Take control and adopt a proactive approach to maintain a hygienic manicure routine.
If you love all things nails, check out this similar read: Can You Put Regular Nail Polish Over Gel, Polygel, Or Dip Powder?