Why Do My Nails Hurt the First Night After Getting Them Done?

Understanding Nail Pain Post-Manicure

Nail pain post-manicure is a common problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including the chemicals used in nail polish, the pressure applied during the manicure, or the tools used during the process.

In some cases, the pain might be a sign of an infection or a more serious problem. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why your nails might hurt after a manicure and what you can do to prevent and treat nail pain.

Key Takeaways

• Nail pain post-manicure is a common problem caused by various factors.
• Identifying and treating nail infections is crucial to avoid further complications.
• Good nail hygiene and preventive measures can help alleviate nail pain.

Understanding Nail Pain Post-Manicure

If you are experiencing nail pain after getting your nails done, you are not alone. Many people experience this discomfort, especially the first night after getting their nails done. In this section, we will explore the common causes of nail pain post-manicure and the anatomy of the nail.

Common Causes of Nail Pain

There are several reasons why your nails might hurt after a manicure. One common cause is the use of acrylic nails or gel polish. These products contain chemicals that can be harsh on your nails and skin, causing pain and discomfort.

Another reason why your nails might hurt after a manicure is due to the over-filing of your nails. This can cause your nails to become thin and weak, leading to pain and sensitivity.

Additionally, if your cuticles were pushed back too aggressively during your manicure, this can cause pain and discomfort. It is important to communicate with your nail technician and let them know if you are experiencing any discomfort during the manicure.

Anatomy of the Nail

To understand why your nails might hurt after a manicure, it is important to understand the anatomy of the nail. The nail is made up of several layers, including the nail plate, nail bed, and nail matrix.

The nail plate is the visible part of the nail that we see and is made up of dead skin cells. The nail bed is the skin underneath the nail plate, and the nail matrix is the tissue at the base of the nail that produces new nail cells.

During a manicure, it is possible to damage any of these layers, causing pain and discomfort. It is important to take care of your nails and avoid harsh chemicals and aggressive filing to prevent damage to the nail.

In conclusion, nail pain post-manicure is a common issue that many people experience. It is important to communicate with your nail technician and take care of your nails to prevent damage and discomfort.

Identifying and Treating Nail Infections

If you experience pain, redness, or swelling around your nails after getting them done, it may be a sign of a nail infection. Nail infections can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, and they can be difficult to treat if left untreated. In this section, we will discuss how to identify and treat nail infections.

Signs of Infection

The signs of a nail infection can vary depending on the type of infection you have. Some common signs of a nail infection include:

• Pain or tenderness around the nail
• Redness or swelling around the nail
• Pus or other discharge coming from the nail
• Fever or other signs of infection

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can diagnose the type of infection you have and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options

The treatment for a nail infection will depend on the type of infection you have. Fungal nail infections are the most common type of nail infection, and they can be difficult to treat. Your healthcare provider may prescribe an antifungal medication to help clear up the infection. They may also recommend keeping your nails dry and clean to prevent the infection from spreading.

Bacterial nail infections are less common than fungal infections, but they can still be serious. Your healthcare provider may prescribe an antibiotic to help clear up the infection. They may also recommend soaking your nails in warm water to help reduce swelling and pain.

In severe cases, your healthcare provider may need to drain pus from the infected area. This can help relieve pain and prevent the infection from spreading.

Overall, if you suspect you have a nail infection, it is important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can diagnose the type of infection you have and recommend the appropriate treatment. With prompt and proper treatment, most nail infections can be successfully treated.

Factors Contributing to Nail Discomfort

If your nails hurt after getting them done, there are several factors that could be contributing to the discomfort. Here are some possible causes:

Physical Trauma and Injury

Your nails may be sore after getting them done due to physical trauma or injury. This can happen if the nail technician accidentally hits your nail bed with a tool or if you accidentally bump your nails against something hard. The trauma can cause pain and discomfort, and it may take a few days for your nails to feel better.

Chemical Exposures

Some of the chemicals used in nail salons can be harsh and irritating to your skin and nails. For example, acetone, a common nail polish remover, can dry out your nails and make them more prone to cracking and breaking. If you have sensitive skin or nails, you may be more susceptible to chemical exposures and may experience discomfort after getting your nails done.

Underlying Health Conditions

If you have an underlying health condition such as diabetes, psoriasis, eczema, autoimmune disease, or iron deficiency anemia, you may be more prone to nail discomfort after getting them done. These conditions can affect the health of your nails and make them more sensitive to trauma and chemical exposures. If you have any of these conditions, it’s important to talk to your doctor before getting your nails done to ensure that it’s safe for you.

Overall, there are several factors that can contribute to nail discomfort after getting them done. By understanding these factors, you can take steps to minimize your risk of discomfort and ensure that your nails stay healthy and strong.

Preventive Measures and Good Nail Hygiene

Taking preventive measures and maintaining good nail hygiene can help prevent your nails from hurting after getting them done. Here are some tips to help you maintain healthy nails:

Maintaining Healthy Nails

1. Keep your nails clean and dry. Moisture can cause bacteria and fungi to grow under your nails, which can lead to infection and pain.
2. Use a moisturizer regularly to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated. This can prevent your nails from becoming brittle and dry, which can cause them to hurt.
3. Avoid biting your nails or picking at your cuticles. This can damage your nails and cause them to become painful.
4. Use a nail hardener to strengthen your nails and prevent them from breaking or chipping.
5. Take biotin supplements or eat biotin-rich foods to promote nail health. Biotin is a B vitamin that is important for nail growth and strength.

Choosing the Right Salon

When getting your nails done, it’s important to choose a reputable salon and nail technician. Here are some things to consider:

1. Look for a salon that is clean and well-maintained. This can help prevent the spread of bacteria and fungi, which can cause infections.
2. Make sure the nail technician uses clean and sterilized tools. This can prevent the spread of infection from one client to another.
3. Ask the nail technician to be gentle when working on your nails. Rough handling can cause your nails to become sore and painful.
4. Avoid salons that use harsh chemicals or tools that can damage your nails. This can cause your nails to become weak and brittle, which can lead to pain and discomfort.

By following these tips, you can maintain good nail hygiene and prevent your nails from hurting after getting them done.

When to Seek Professional Help

After getting your nails done, it is normal to experience some discomfort and mild pain. However, if you experience severe pain, it may be a sign of an underlying condition that requires medical attention. In this section, we will discuss when you should seek professional help for nail pain.

Recognizing Severe Symptoms

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:

• Severe pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain medication
• Fever
• Discoloration of the nail or surrounding skin
• Nail thickening or separation from the nail bed

These symptoms may indicate an infection or other underlying condition that requires prompt medical attention.

Consulting a Healthcare Provider

If you experience severe pain or any of the symptoms listed above, you should consult a healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may perform a physical examination to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.

In some cases, your healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist, such as a dermatologist or podiatrist, for further evaluation and treatment.

It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience severe nail pain or any other symptoms that may indicate an underlying condition. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can prevent complications and get relief from your symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes pain under acrylic nails after application?

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those who want to add length and strength to their nails. However, pain under acrylic nails after application is not uncommon. This pain can be caused by several factors, including improper application, over-filing of the natural nail, or a reaction to the chemicals used in the acrylic mixture. If you experience pain under your acrylic nails, it is important to speak with your nail technician to determine the cause and find a solution.

How can I alleviate throbbing pain after a new manicure?

It is not uncommon to experience throbbing pain after a new manicure, especially if your technician has applied too much pressure during the process. To alleviate this pain, you can try soaking your nails in warm water with Epsom salt, taking over-the-counter pain medication, or applying a cold compress to the affected area. If the pain persists, it is important to speak with your nail technician to determine the cause and find a solution.

What are common reasons for nail aches following gel treatments?

Nail aches following gel treatments are often caused by improper application or removal of the gel polish. If the polish is applied too thickly or if the nail is not properly prepped before application, it can cause discomfort and pain. Similarly, if the gel polish is not properly removed, it can damage the natural nail and cause pain. If you experience nail aches following gel treatments, it is important to speak with your nail technician to determine the cause and find a solution.

Is it normal to experience discomfort on the sides of nails post-manicure?

It is not uncommon to experience discomfort on the sides of nails post-manicure, especially if your technician has applied too much pressure during the process. This discomfort can be caused by inflammation or bruising of the surrounding skin. To alleviate this discomfort, you can try soaking your nails in warm water with Epsom salt or applying a cold compress to the affected area. If the discomfort persists, it is important to speak with your nail technician to determine the cause and find a solution.

How long should I expect soreness to last after applying dip powder nails?

Soreness after applying dip powder nails can last for several days, especially if the natural nail was over-filed during the process. To alleviate this soreness, you can try soaking your nails in warm water with Epsom salt, taking over-the-counter pain medication, or applying a cold compress to the affected area. If the soreness persists, it is important to speak with your nail technician to determine the cause and find a solution.

What are effective remedies for healing nails damaged by acrylics?

Acrylic nails can cause damage to the natural nail if they are not properly applied or removed. To heal nails damaged by acrylics, you can try using a nail strengthener or cuticle oil to promote healthy nail growth. It is also important to give your nails a break from acrylics to allow them to heal. If the damage is severe, it is important to speak with your nail technician or a healthcare professional for further advice.