I took my acrylics off about 2 weeks ago & my nails looked horrible. The part that had the acrylic on it is finally almost grown out... and behind that, they don't look too bad. Its just weird having them so short. (Typing feels pretty cool though without all the clacking of keys) lol Growing them was never a problem... but they were always so thin, and bendable. I have been using Avons length& strength treatment & Sally Hansen Hard as Wraps, and they seem better... If I can keep them long AND strong, i'll leave the acrylics off, but who knows... I guess it's just good to let them breathe a bit. I've had acrylics for years.