There are many nail myths and half-truths around nail care. Whether it's about filing, how long gel nails last, UV lamps or caring for the natural nail – not everything you hear is true. In this article we debunk the most common nail myths and explain what really matters.

Myth 1: Nails need to “breathe”

False. The visible nail plate is made of hardened keratin and is not alive. The nail receives oxygen and nutrients through the blood – via the nail bed and nail matrix, not through the air. So the nail doesn't need a “breathing break” between two sets of enhancements.

• What really matters: well-cared-for cuticles, a healthy nail bed and gentle removal of the enhancement.
• Tip: apply nail oil regularly – for example with a handy nail care oil roller – and eat a balanced diet. A break only makes sense if the natural nail has become thin from incorrect removal.

Myth 2: It doesn't matter how you file

False. Filing back and forth with a coarse grit can roughen the free edge and cause splitting – especially on thin, soft nails.

• What really matters: for natural nails it's gentler to file in one direction and use a fine grit.
• Tip: a file such as the BNC half-moon file 180/240 is well suited to natural nails. Our guide Which nail file is right for me? explains which grit to use for what.

Myth 3: UV/LED lamps are completely harmless – or extremely dangerous

Neither is quite right. Curing lamps emit UVA radiation, and exposure per session is short. Based on current knowledge, the risk is considered low but not zero – especially with very frequent use over many years.

• What really matters: cure only for as long as necessary and use a lamp that matches the gel. That way the gel cures completely without exposing your hand for longer than needed.
• Tip: to be on the safe side, apply a sunscreen with high UVA protection to the backs of your hands about 20 minutes beforehand, or wear fingerless UV protection gloves. Read more about choosing a lamp in our UV or LED lamp buying guide.

Myth 4: Gel nails damage the natural nail

Only if applied incorrectly. Gel nails are not harmful if they are applied and removed correctly.

• What really matters: problems are usually caused by over-filing during preparation or by peeling and picking off the gel, which tears away the top layers of the nail.
• Tip: remove shellac and soak-off gel polishes with a suitable remover, for example the BNC Soak Off Remover with lanolin and BNC remover pads. Builder gels are usually filed off – ideally in the salon. You'll find a step-by-step guide in our article How do I remove my gel nails?.

Myth 5: White spots indicate calcium deficiency

False. The small white spots are usually caused by minor injuries to the nail matrix, for example from knocking your nail, pushing back the cuticle too hard or filing. They grow out with the nail.

• What really matters: individual spots are harmless. If they appear very often, the nails change overall or other symptoms occur, have it checked by a doctor.
• Tip: push back the cuticle gently, for example with a BNC gel spatula / cuticle pusher, and never press on the nail root.

Myth 6: Cuticles have to be cut off

False. The cuticle protects the nail root from germs. If it is cut off radically, it often grows back thicker and more ragged, and small injuries can become inflamed.

• What really matters: soften the cuticle, push it back gently and only carefully remove loose, lifted bits of skin.
• Tip: oiling daily keeps the cuticle supple – then there's hardly anything to remove.

Myth 7: Acrylic is always more harmful than gel

Not across the board. Both systems are gentle on the natural nail when applied and removed professionally. What matters is clean preparation, no skin contact with uncured material and correct removal. Learn about the differences in our comparison Acrylic nails or gel nails – which is better?.

Myth 8: Nail polish doesn't stain nails

Actually, it can. Highly pigmented, dark polishes in particular can discolour the natural nail if applied directly without a base coat. The discolouration grows out.

• Tip: always use a base coat and don't wear polish for months without a break. A BNC UVA Top Coat polish sealer protects the polish from scratches and chipping. You'll find more tips for long-lasting wear in Make colour gel & shellac last longer.

FAQ: Nail myths

Do nails need a break from gel or shellac?

Not to “breathe”. A break can make sense if the natural nail has become thin or sensitive due to incorrect removal. Nail oil, short nails and patience help in that case.

Do gel nails make nails thin?

Not the gel itself, but over-filing and peeling. With professional preparation and removal, the natural nail stays healthy.

Where do white spots on nails come from?

Usually from minor injuries to the nail matrix. They are generally harmless and grow out.

How do I protect my hands under the UV lamp?

With sunscreen with high UVA protection or fingerless UV protection gloves – and by curing only for as long as necessary for the gel you're using.

Conclusion: facts instead of myths

Not all nail care tips are true. To keep your nails healthy and strong, rely on proven facts rather than myths. With the right products, clean technique and a little knowledge, you can care for your nails perfectly – at home or in the salon. You'll find more practical tips in Common nail care mistakes.