White spots on nails: Damage or dehydration?
White spots on nails after gel removal are a common concern among nail professionals and enthusiasts. They are not due to dehydration, but rather to inappropriate removal techniques. UV gel nail polish is safe when applied and removed correctly. It is important to adhere to the recommended wear times, usually for two weeks.
Extending wear for more than four weeks will make removal difficult. Incorrect curing with the wrong lamp also complicates the process. Appropriate techniques are essential to prevent damage. Furthermore, using the right tools and solvents ensures safe and effective service. For example, acetone is commonly used due to its fast action properties and its long history of safe use in nail care.
Why is dehydration not causing white spots?
Dehydration affects not only specific spots but also the entire nail plate. It’s reversible. Soak your nails in water and quickly restore moisture. Nail dehydrators temporarily remove water, but water reverses this effect. The acetone used for removal can slightly dehydrate the nails, but does not cause white spots.
If dehydration is the cause, the white spots will disappear after hydration treatment. However, they persist and indicate another cause. Additionally, nail dehydrators used before applying acrylic enhancements remain a chalky look that disappears in contact with water. This indicates that dehydration is not the cause of the white spots seen after gel removal.
To further illustrate this point, consider using nail dehydrators in nail strengthening. These products temporarily remove moisture from the nail surface, creating a chalky look. However, this effect immediately reverses upon contact with water, indicating that dehydration does not lead to permanent damage or white spots.

Real cause: Surface damage
White spots are caused by physical damage during inappropriate gel removal. The coating removes the nails and creates a pit that looks whitish. Proper removal involves sufficient time to avoid strong abrasions by soaking the coating in acetone or solvent.
Rapidly remove or use excessive force to damage the nail plate. This damage is caused by inappropriate techniques, not by the UV gel itself. Often, images show how shaving can lift keratinocytes and lead to visible white spots. Therefore, it is important to avoid using metal or wooden tools that can remove nail cells.
Furthermore, using force during removal can not only cause immediate damage, but also lead to long-term problems. For example, repeating the nail plate can weaken over time, making it more likely to cause breaks and splits.
Preventing white spots during gel removal
Carefully treat the nail plate to prevent white spots. To avoid the use of force, ensure proper soaking time during removal. Minimize filing or use 240 grit abrasive if necessary. Educate clients on proper maintenance and wear times.
By adopting gentle techniques, you can protect your client’s natural nails while maintaining professional standards. Regular training and updates on best practices is essential for nail technicians. This includes understanding the chemistry behind nail products and how they interact with nail plates.
Furthermore, client education plays an important role in preventing damage. Notifying clients about the importance of adherence to recommended wear times and avoiding excessive force during removal will help ensure nail health.
Conclusions and best practices
White spots on the nail after gel removal are caused by physical damage rather than dehydration. Understanding this will help professionals adopt safer practices. UV gel nail polish is safe when done correctly. Proper removal techniques and client education are key to preventing damage.
In conclusion, focusing on the right application and removal methods ensures healthy nails and satisfied clients. Prioritizing nail care and education allows professionals to enhance their services and build trust with their clients.
To further strengthen your practice, consider the following best practices:
- Use high quality tools. Invest in tools designed specifically for nail care to ensure safe and effective results.
- Regular training: Keep up to date with the latest techniques and products to maintain high standards.
- Client Communication: Educate clients about proper nail care and maintenance to prevent damage.
By incorporating these practices into your routine, you can provide superior service while protecting your client’s nail health.