Understand Nail Damages & Heat Spikes

Ever felt that sudden burst of heat on your nail bed while curing or applying polish? That’s what we call a heat spike, and it can definitely make you jump! While it’s common, frequent heat spikes in nails may lead to nail damage.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the science behind heat spikes and nail curing issues so you can keep every manicure strong, shiny and stunning.

What are heat spikes, and why do they occur when curing gel nails?

Heat spikes happen when the product hardens (or polymerises) too quickly, releasing a burst of heat in a short amount of time. When powder and liquid mix, the catalyst and initiator react, creating a chemical chain reaction called polymerisation. This reaction is the linking up of the small liquid monomer molecules into long solid chains and networks, forming the strong structure we love in gel and acrylic nails. But if this process happens too fast, it builds up heat inside the nail coating, which can reach temperatures as high as 44°C. That’s what causes that sharp, uncomfortable sensation known as a heat spike.

Consistent or intense heat spikes can lead to sensitivity or even nail plate separation (onycholysis). In severe cases, it can result in nail lifting issues and make nails more prone to breakage or infection.

Typical causes of heat spikes in nails

Heat spikes don’t just happen out of nowhere. They’re usually a sign that something in your product mix, curing process or prep routine needs adjusting. 

• Incorrect mix ratio (for acrylics)
  Using too much liquid or powder can speed up the chemical reaction, causing the product to harden too fast and release excess heat. Always follow the recommended mix ratio for a smooth, even cure.

• Wrong lamp or curing time
  Using a UV lamp that doesn’t match your gel system or curing for too long can cause overheating.  

• Applying gel too thickly
  Thick layers trap heat, which can lead to that burning sensation as the product cures. Apply thin, even coats and fully cure between layers to reduce heat build-up, especially near the cuticle or sidewalls.

• Overuse of primer
  Applying excessive primer on thin or over-filed nails can penetrate the nail plate and cause a burning sensation.  

• Aggressive filing or over-preparation
  Overfiling thins the nail plate, leaving it more sensitive to heat spikes that would otherwise go unnoticed. 

Are heat spikes a sign of damage to the natural nail?

Not necessarily. A mild heat spike is a normal reaction during curing and doesn’t always mean harm. However, frequent or intense spikes can stress the nail bed and, over time, may contribute to sensitivity or separation.

Other causes of nail damage

When nails become damaged, products often get blamed, but in reality, the real cause usually lies in how they’re applied, removed or maintained. 

• That burning sensation during nail filing can be a sign of onycholysis, where the nail plate separates from the nail bed.

• Peeling any coating off your nails in any way removes layers of the natural nail plate, causing thin, damaged nails. Repeated improper removal of coatings can actually damage nails to the point that coatings will no longer adhere!

• “Etching” or aggressive filing on the surface of the natural nail to prepare the nail for a service can cause huge damage. Today’s nail products are chemically sophisticated and should only need the surface shine removed, which does not require much filing and definitely not aggressive filing. The average nail plate is only about 100 layers thick, so if you file 3 to 5 layers or more off the nails at every service, eventually the nail will be thin, weak, damaged and incapable of maintaining a coating.

• Picking or chewing your nails can take away chunks or layers of nail. Even soaking nail clippings in acetone or nail monomer wouldn’t create that kind of damage.

Say goodbye to heat spikes and nail product lifting with NSI Australia

Preventing nail lifting and nail enhancement damage involves combining the right techniques, nail care tools and products. At NSI Australia, we offer a full range of high-quality nail care kits, from gel and acrylic coatings to nail art accessories and removal essentials. Explore our collection and create healthier, stronger and longer-lasting manicures.