Are you familiar with the distressing moment when you accidentally break a nail and the standard nail glue is nowhere in sight?
In such a dire situation, many have turned to alternative adhesives and Gorilla Glue often appears to be a potential knight in shining armor.
But can you actually use Gorilla Glue to mend your broken nails? Let’s take a closer look.
From Jungle to Nail Salon: An Unlikely Journey of Gorilla Glue
Gorilla Glue is a polyurethane adhesive known for its versatility and incredibly strong bonding abilities, but these characteristics don’t immediately make it an ideal solution for nail repairs.
Here’s what you need to consider:
- Gorilla Glue is waterproof and dries fast
- The adhesive bonds objects strongly
- It expands as it dries, filling in gaps
- It’s not initially developed for cosmetic uses
Fixing Nails: What Makes a Glue Suitable?
When considering a glue for repairing a broken nail, look for certain attributes. It should dry quickly, adhere well to your natural nail, and be safe for cosmetic use.
Unfortunately, while Gorilla Glue does meet some of these requirements, it falls short in one critical aspect: it’s not designed for cosmetic use.
This is primarily due to the strong, expansive properties of the glue, which could lead to skin irritation or a messy application.
Can Gorilla Glue Fix Broken Nails? A Detailed Look
Technically, Gorilla Glue can bond a broken nail due to its robust adhesive properties.
However, as it’s not formulated for cosmetic use, it can be risky. If applied improperly, it might expand and ooze out from the sides of the nail, causing a messy situation.
It could also potentially cause skin irritation.
How to Apply Gorilla Glue for a Nail Rescue Operation
If you decide to proceed with Gorilla Glue, follow these steps carefully:
- Clean your broken nail with a nail polish remover to eliminate any existing polish or oil.
- Apply a tiny drop of Gorilla Glue on a piece of paper or non-stick surface.
- Using a toothpick, gently apply the glue on the broken area.
- Press and hold the broken piece (if available) onto the nail for a few minutes until it holds.
- Allow the glue to dry thoroughly for at least 24 hours.
- Once dried, file and shape your nail carefully to ensure it’s smooth and even.
- Apply a coat of clear nail polish to seal and protect the repair.
Cautions When Using Gorilla Glue for Nails
Remember to apply the glue sparingly, as Gorilla Glue expands while it dries.
Avoid any contact with your skin, as it can cause irritation and is challenging to remove once dried.
Finally, this should be considered as a temporary fix and not a regular practice.
Conclusion
While Gorilla Glue can technically mend a broken nail, it’s not an ideal solution due to potential skin irritation and its expansive properties.
It should be used with caution and as a last resort. A more appropriate choice would be a nail adhesive specifically formulated for cosmetic use.
When in doubt, it’s always safer to consult a professional nail technician.
