Sophia Delgado
Fake gel nails are a type of manicure that uses a special type of nail polish that cures under a UV or LED lamp. While they are durable and long-lasting, there are health concerns associated with their use. The curing process involves exposure to UVA rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to skin cancer. Additionally, the removal process can weaken and damage natural nails, making them brittle and prone to infection. Other issues include allergic reactions, nail glue burns, and the risk of developing pseudo-psoriatic nails, which can resemble psoriasis. Considering these potential risks, it is recommended to opt for natural nail care or less damaging alternatives, such as press-on nails or shellac.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pros | Long-lasting, durable and customisable |
| Cons | Repeated exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which causes skin ageing and DNA damage that can lead to cancer |
| Prolonged wearing can lead to pseudo-psoriatic nails, which resemble the appearance of psoriasis | |
| Removal can damage the nail's keratin layers, causing it to become brittle | |
| Can cause nail glue burns | |
| Can cause peripheral neuropathy, i.e. tingling or numbness in fingers | |
| Can cause traumatic onycholysis, where the nail is pulled away from the bed underneath | |
| Can cause paronychia, an infection that occurs when the edges on either side of the nail are exposed | |
| Can cause onychomycosis, the growth of fungus | |
| Can cause allergic reactions, like rashes and hives | |
| Can leave nails dry and brittle |
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What You'll Learn
- Gel nail polish increases UV exposure, which can lead to skin ageing and cancer
- The removal process for gel nails can wear down natural nails, causing stripes and changes to the capillaries underneath
- Gel nails can cause allergic reactions, such as rashes, hives, and nail weakness
- Nail glue burns are commonly reported, with some cases leading to skin infections
- Leaving gel nails on for too long can create an environment for fungal growth
Gel nail polish increases UV exposure, which can lead to skin ageing and cancer
The curing process of gel manicures involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and cancer. UVA light is also used in tanning beds, and there is no such thing as a risk-free nail lamp. While LED lamps are considered safer, they still emit UV radiation. The cumulative bursts of UV exposure during the curing process of gel manicures increase UV-induced skin damage and the risk of skin cancer.
Gel nail polish is cured under a UV or LED lamp in 60 to 90 seconds, hardening into a stiff polymer. This is significantly faster than regular nail polish, which can take over half an hour to dry. However, the convenience of gel nail polish comes at the cost of increased UV exposure. The back of the hands may be one of the most UV-resistant parts of the body, but it is often left unprotected by clothing and sunscreen.
To reduce the risk of UV exposure during gel manicures, it is recommended to apply a high factor sunscreen 30 minutes before the appointment and wear dark, fingerless gloves during the manicure. Additionally, allowing time between manicures for your nails to recover is essential, as gel polish can leave your nails dry and brittle.
While gel nail polish increases UV exposure, which can lead to skin ageing and cancer, it is important to note that there are other health risks associated with gel and acrylic nails. These include nail glue burns, allergic reactions, and nail infections. Prolonged wearing of gels and acrylics can also lead to pseudo-psoriatic nails, where extra skin grows under the nail, resembling psoriasis. In some cases, the allergic reaction can cause the permanent loss of fingernails.
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The removal process for gel nails can wear down natural nails, causing stripes and changes to the capillaries underneath
While fake gel nails can be a fun way to express yourself, the removal process can be damaging to your natural nails. The removal of gel nails often involves filing, peeling, or shaving away fragments of the nail plate, which can cause stripes to appear on the nail. This process can also affect the capillaries underneath the nail, leading to changes in their appearance. Even the most careful removal can result in damage to the nail's keratin layers, causing them to become weak and brittle.
The negative consequences of gel nail removal on natural nails can be long-lasting. Issues such as cracking, peeling, and overall weakening of the nail plate may take months to resolve as the damaged nail needs to grow out. Additionally, gel nail removal can leave your nails dry and brittle, especially if sufficient time is not allowed for recovery between manicures.
The risk of nail damage is present with both salon-applied and at-home gel nails. Salon gel nails, which are professionally applied and sculpted, tend to be more durable and long-lasting. However, the removal process can be particularly harsh, leading to over-filing and nail bed separation. On the other hand, at-home press-on gel nails are a less damaging option, as they are typically intended for short-term wear and do not require the same level of commitment as salon gel nails.
To minimize the potential harm to your natural nails, it is recommended to opt for the least damaging fake nails available. At-home press-on nails are generally safer than salon gel nails, as they do not require the same intensive removal process. Additionally, allowing your nails to recover between manicures can help reduce the cumulative negative effects of gel nail removal.
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Gel nails can cause allergic reactions, such as rashes, hives, and nail weakness
While gel nails are a popular choice for those wanting length, durability, and affordability, they can cause allergic reactions, such as rashes, hives, and nail weakness. The allergic reaction can sometimes be so severe that it causes the permanent loss of fingernails.
Gel nail polish contains acrylate and methacrylate, which are known to cause allergic reactions. The most common reaction is a rash, known as contact dermatitis. In rarer cases, gel nails can also cause hives, known as urticaria.
In addition to the risk of allergic reactions, the removal process for gel nails can also damage the natural nail. This can lead to changes in the appearance of the nail, such as stripes running across the ends of the nails, and damage to the capillaries underneath. The removal process can also cause traumatic onycholysis, where the nail is pulled away from the nail bed, creating an opening for infection.
To reduce the risk of nail damage, it is important to allow time between manicures for your nails to recover. It is also recommended to choose a professional nail technician who can properly apply and remove gel nails to minimise the risk of damage.
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Nail glue burns are commonly reported, with some cases leading to skin infections
While fake gel nails may be aesthetically pleasing to some, they can have adverse effects on health. One of the most commonly reported issues is nail glue burns, which can have severe consequences.
Nail glue, primarily composed of cyanoacrylate, is a widely available beauty product used to attach false nails. When this adhesive comes into contact with certain fabrics, especially cotton or wool, a chemical reaction occurs, resulting in an instantaneous release of intense heat. This can cause severe burns, even requiring skin grafts in some cases. The high fluidity of the glue allows it to easily diffuse through fabric, increasing the area of burned skin.
The current trend for false nails, coupled with the increased use of at-home manicure kits due to COVID-19 restrictions, has led to a rise in nail glue-related accidents. These burns are often reported in children due to accidental spillage, highlighting the importance of safe storage to prevent access by young individuals. In adults, nail glue burns can occur when the glue spills onto clothing, burning through the fabric and damaging the skin beneath, which can then become infected.
It is crucial to recognize the signs of a chemical burn and act promptly. If nail glue comes into contact with the skin or clothing, remove all traces of the chemical, including affected clothing, and thoroughly irrigate the area with water. In cases where the clothing adheres strongly to the skin, pulling it off should be avoided, as it can worsen the injury. Instead, soak the affected area in water to help loosen the fabric.
To minimize the risk of nail glue burns, it is essential to prioritize safety. Ensure that nail glue products are stored safely and securely, particularly when children are present. Additionally, always follow the instructions on the product label and be cautious when handling the glue to prevent accidental spillage.
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Leaving gel nails on for too long can create an environment for fungal growth
While fake gel nails are a popular choice for those wanting length, durability, and affordability, they can have negative health impacts. One of the most significant risks associated with gel nails is the elevated exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays during the curing process, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to skin cancer. The back of the hands is one of the most UV-resistant parts of the body, but it is often left unprotected by clothing and sunscreen. Therefore, it is crucial to take precautions, such as applying sunscreen before a manicure appointment and wearing fingerless gloves during the process, to reduce the risk of UV exposure.
Additionally, the removal process of gel nails can be damaging to the natural nail. The removal often involves peeling or shaving away fragments of the nail plate, which can weaken the nail and make it brittle. Even with careful removal, temporary damage may still occur, and issues like cracking, peeling, and weakened nail plates may take months to resolve. It is essential to allow time between manicures for the natural nail to recover and regain its strength.
The chemicals present in gel nail polishes, such as acrylate and methacrylate, can also cause allergic reactions, including contact dermatitis and, less commonly, hives. Furthermore, the prolonged wearing of gel nails can lead to pseudo-psoriatic nails, where extra skin growth under the nail resembles psoriasis. In some cases, individuals with pseudo-psoriatic nails have tested positive for an allergy to methyl methacrylate, and severe allergic reactions can result in the permanent loss of fingernails.
Overall, while gel nails can provide a polished and long-lasting look, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with their use and prolonged wear. Proper care and regular examination of the natural nails are crucial to mitigate these risks and maintain nail health.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, they are. The curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to cancer. Gel nail polishes also contain chemicals such as acrylate and methacrylate, which are known to cause allergic reactions. Removing gel nails can also damage the nail's keratin layers, causing the nail to become brittle.
If you want to avoid the damage caused by gel nails, you can opt for press-on nails, which are a quick, easy, and affordable option for short-term wear. You can also try a BIAB manicure, which is a gel-like nail polish that protects your natural nails against breakage and allows them to grow to your desired length.
To reduce the risk of UV exposure, you can apply sunscreen with a high SPF factor 30 minutes before your appointment. You can also wear dark, fingerless gloves during the manicure to protect your hands from the UV light.
