BEAUTY TIPS · JUICIOSAS BEAUTY
4 Common Beauty Myths: Nails, Lashes & Keratin
Do nails need to breathe? Should toenails be cut as short as possible? These common beauty myths can make everyday care confusing. At Juiciosas Beauty in Sliema, Malta, we believe a good treatment starts with understanding your nails, lashes and hair. Here are four familiar claims, what they really mean and practical points to discuss before your next appointment.
1. Manicure myth: your nails need to breathe
The myth: You must leave your nails bare between manicures so they can breathe.
The reality: The visible nail plate is made of keratinised cells and does not breathe like skin or lungs. The living tissues that support nail growth receive oxygen and nutrients through the bloodstream. However, this does not mean every nail treatment is harmless or that breaks are never useful.
Repeated filing, picking off gel and harsh removal can leave nails thin or brittle. If your nails are peeling, sore or damaged, pause enhancements and ask for advice before covering the problem. Gentle preparation, appropriate removal and regular moisturising matter more than the idea of letting nails breathe.
Explore our manicure treatments in Sliema and our guide to hand and cuticle care for everyday maintenance.
2. Pedicure myth: shorter toenails are always better
The myth: Toenails should be cut as short as possible for a neat pedicure.
The reality: Cutting too short or digging into the corners can increase the risk of irritation and ingrown toenails. Trim straight across, avoid cutting into the sides and gently file sharp edges. A comfortable length is more important than an extremely short finish.
Tell your technician about tenderness before treatment. Persistent pain, redness or swelling needs assessment by a healthcare professional. For routine cosmetic care, discover our pedicure and foot-care services in Sliema.
3. Lash lift myth: a lift always makes lashes fall out
The myth: A lash lift inevitably causes natural eyelashes to fall out.
The reality: A lash lift changes the shape of existing lashes; losing lashes is not its intended result. Nevertheless, the treatment uses chemicals near the eyes and is not risk-free. Overprocessing, unsuitable products or repeated treatment can cause damage, while irritation and allergic reactions are also possible.
Discuss your lash condition, previous reactions and eye sensitivities with the practitioner. Follow the product-specific preparation and aftercare instructions, and allow the recommended interval between treatments. A conditioning step may improve how lashes feel, but it should not be described as a guarantee of growth or protection against damage.
If you develop eye pain, swelling or vision changes after treatment, seek prompt medical advice. Ask our team about suitability before booking a lash service.
4. Keratin myth: treatments are only for curly hair
The myth: Keratin treatments are useful only if your hair is curly.
The reality: Naturally straight, wavy and curly hair can all have frizz or manageability concerns. Depending on the formula and technique, a smoothing treatment may make hair easier to style and give it a smoother, shinier appearance. Suitability depends on hair condition, previous colouring or chemical services and the finish you want.
Keratin-labelled services vary, so ask which product is being used, whether it changes your natural texture and what maintenance it requires. Some smoothing products can release formaldehyde when heated; product selection and ventilation matter. Read our keratin treatment guide before choosing a service.
Beauty myths: frequently asked questions
Do I need a break between gel manicures?
There is no need for a break simply to supply the nail plate with air. A break may still be appropriate if nails are damaged, brittle or irritated. Assess their condition and avoid peeling products off yourself.
Can straight hair benefit from a keratin treatment?
It may, depending on the product, your hair condition and your styling goals. A consultation helps establish whether smoothing is suitable and what result is realistic.
Does a professional lash lift have no risks?
No. Professional application does not eliminate the possibility of chemical irritation, allergy or lash damage. Discuss suitability and follow the relevant product instructions.
Further reading
For independent guidance, see the American Academy of Dermatology on manicure and pedicure safety, Mayo Clinic on ingrown toenail prevention, Cleveland Clinic on lash lifts and the FDA on hair-smoothing products.
Choose Your Next Beauty Treatment
Good beauty advice should help you ask better questions and choose care that suits you. Whether you want a manicure, a pedicure or advice on lashes and hair, contact Juiciosas Beauty in Sliema, Malta, to discuss your goals. Explore our beauty services or contact the team to plan your appointment.