The truth about nail health: What really damages nails and how to protect them
Agnes Karimi, who has more than a decade of experience in the beauty industry and runs one of Nairobi’s most sought-after nail studios, explains that the belief comes from a misunderstanding.
The long-standing beauty myth that nails need to “breathe” between manicures has circulated in salons and on social media for years.
But according to renowned nail technician and beauty expert Agnes Karimi, there is no scientific basis for this belief. Instead, she says the focus should be on proper nail care and hydration—not air exposure.
The myth of “breathing” nails
Agnes Karimi, who has more than a decade of experience in the beauty industry and runs one of Nairobi’s most sought-after nail studios, explains that the belief comes from a misunderstanding.
“Nails are made of keratin, a protein; they are not living tissue,” Karimi explains.
“Since they have no blood vessels or nerves, they don’t require oxygen the way skin or internal organs do. What they need is protection and nourishment.”
What really causes nail damage?
Many clients worry that frequent gel or acrylic manicures suffocate their nails. Karimi clarifies that this isn’t true—the real problem is usually improper application or removal.
“If you peel off gel polish or use harsh filing techniques, that’s what weakens the nail plate,” she says. “It’s not the polish sitting on your nail, it’s how you treat your nails before, during and after that matters.”
She adds that skipping professional care or attempting DIY removals with acetone-soaked cotton and forceful scraping can lead to brittleness, thinning, and even painful nail bed injuries.
Do nails need breaks?
While nails don’t need to “breathe,” Karimi notes that occasional breaks from polish or enhancements can still be helpful—but for a different reason.
“If your nails are feeling weak, a short break gives you time to repair them with nourishing treatments, not to give them oxygen,” she says.
During these breaks, she recommends:
• Applying cuticle oil daily to hydrate the nail matrix
• Using nail strengtheners with biotin or keratin proteins
• Minimising water exposure and avoiding harsh detergents
• Eating a balanced diet rich in B vitamins and zinc
A shift toward nail wellness
Karimi has observed a growing interest in nail wellness in Kenya, especially among younger clients who want both aesthetics and sustainability.
“People are asking better questions, about products, ingredients, and aftercare. That’s a positive shift in the industry,” she notes.
Her studio on Tom Mboya Street now offers services like gel overlays with vitamin-infused bases and post-removal recovery packages to help restore nails between styles without leaving them vulnerable.
So, do nails need to “breathe”?
“No, they don’t breathe,” Karimi says firmly. “But they do need care. Regular manicures are fine, even back-to-back, if they’re done professionally and followed by good at-home habits.”
She advises using cuticle oil daily to strengthen the root, investing in a base coat with calcium and keratin, and maintaining overall hydration.
“While you are at it, remember to drink plenty of water, because internal hydration reflects on nail health. Also, those who bite their nails should stop, because it damages the protective barrier and can introduce nail infections.”
Agnes Karimi is a certified nail technician and the founder of Nail Bloom Studio in Nairobi.
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