Onycholysis and fake nails

Artificial nails can add weight and leverage to the natural nail. A knock, forceful removal, filing, or a gap that traps water may separate the nail plate from its bed. Adhesives and sculpting products can also irritate the skin or trigger an allergy. Green, yellow, or crumbly changes may point to infection rather than simple mechanical lifting. Nail fungus and Nail Psoriasis are other possibilities; a clinician can distinguish them by examining the nail and surrounding skin.

Do not pry, rip, or glue the loose nail back down. Have the artificial nail removed without scraping the natural plate, then keep the nail short and dry. Avoid another set, polish, aggressive buffing, and cuticle cutting until the nail has grown out and the skin feels calm. Wear gloves for wet or chemical work, but change them if sweat builds up. Do not share files or clippers. Treatment depends on the cause, and [Nail Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/nail-surgery/) is relevant only in selected situations.

Book a review if the loose area enlarges, more nails change, or the nail remains lifted despite stopping artificial products. Get prompt help for throbbing pain, marked redness, swelling, drainage, bad odour, or a dark streak that does not grow out. A rash, blistering, or intense itch around the fingers may indicate contact allergy and should also be assessed.

Was the nail damaged mechanically, or could infection or allergy be involved? Is testing needed? When can I safely use artificial nails again, and which removal method should I avoid?