Onycholysis from acrylic nails

Acrylic overlays are attached to the natural nail, so a lifted edge can act like a lever during everyday knocks. Preparation may thin the plate, while drilling, soaking, or peeling during removal can add trauma. A gap under an acrylic can hold water and debris. Itching, redness, or blisters around the fingers suggest product sensitivity; yellow, green, thick, or crumbly nail changes may indicate infection. Nail Fungus and Nail Psoriasis can also cause lifting and should not be assumed away.

Arrange gentle professional removal if acrylic remains attached; do not tear it off or scrape the natural nail. Trim only the free loose edge, keep the nail clean and dry, and protect it from snagging. Stop acrylics, hardeners, polish, and aggressive buffing while the nail recovers. Use gloves for prolonged water exposure and do not share manicure tools. A clinician can decide whether a sample or other examination is needed. [Nail Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/nail-surgery/) is not routine care for every lifted nail.

Seek medical advice when lifting spreads, several nails are involved, or the nail does not improve as it grows. Prompt assessment is appropriate for worsening pain, swelling, warmth, pus, bleeding, foul odour, or a new dark mark. Stop the suspected product and seek care for facial swelling, breathing trouble, or a rapidly spreading rash after exposure.

Could this be trauma, allergy, fungus, or psoriasis? Should the nail be tested? How should the remaining acrylic be removed, and what protection is suitable during regrowth?