Isla Bennett
The popularity of gel nails has been a growing concern for environmentalists due to the toxic chemicals and single-use plastics involved in the process. The UV light used to cure gel nails can cause photoaging and nail brittleness, and the non-degradable nature of gel polish means it often contains some of the most toxic chemicals, which can have serious environmental and health implications. With the rise of eco-consciousness, many are seeking more sustainable alternatives to gel nails, such as water-based polishes, natural nail strengtheners, and biodegradable glitter.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Toxic chemicals | Formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) |
| Health risks | Skin cancer, reproductive problems, respiratory distress, occupational asthma, musculoskeletal problems, photoaging, nail thinning, contact or irritant dermatitis |
| Environmental impact | Landfill waste, toxic components leaching into soil and groundwater, microplastics, damage to aquatic life and wildlife |
| Eco-friendly alternatives | Water-based nail polishes, natural and non-toxic nail polishes, biodegradable glitter, eco-friendly nail polish removers |
| Health and safety precautions | Use UV lamps in moderation, follow standard guidelines for exposure time, ensure proper ventilation, practice good hygiene and sterilization |
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What You'll Learn
- The UV light used to cure gel nails can cause premature ageing and nail brittleness
- Nail salons can be breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi, leading to infections and respiratory distress
- Nail salon employees are susceptible to occupational asthma, musculoskeletal issues, and other health problems
- Non-biodegradable nail polish bottles end up in landfills, releasing toxic substances into the environment
- Nail polish contains harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate
The UV light used to cure gel nails can cause premature ageing and nail brittleness
While gel manicures are beloved for their long-lasting shine, the UV light used to cure the polish can have adverse effects on your skin and nails.
The UV light used to cure gel nails has been linked to photoaging, or premature ageing of the skin. Repeated exposure to UV lights can cause photoaging, leaving your skin looking older than it is.
In addition to premature ageing, the UV light used on gel nails can also lead to nail brittleness. The curing process can weaken your nails, making them more prone to breakage and damage. This can be further exacerbated by the process of removing gel polish, which often involves soaking nails in acetone, a harsh chemical that can strip nails of their natural oils, leaving them dry and brittle.
To reduce the risk of nail brittleness, it is recommended to minimise the use of UV light during the curing process. Some gel nail polishes can be cured using LED lights, which have not been associated with the same health risks as UV lights. Additionally, choosing gel nail polishes that offer faster curing times can help reduce your exposure to UV radiation.
It is also important to allow your nails to recover between gel manicures. Giving your nails a break from polish for a few weeks can help them regain their strength and moisture. During this time, it is recommended to minimise your nails' exposure to water and to wear rubber gloves when washing dishes or performing other tasks that involve water. Keeping your nails moisturised and hydrated can also help restore their health.
While the UV light used to cure gel nails can have negative effects on the skin and nails, it's important to note that the overall risk of skin cancer from this exposure is considered low. However, to mitigate any potential risks, it is advisable to prioritise moderation when it comes to gel manicures and to opt for nail salons that adhere to safety guidelines and employ proper ventilation systems.
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Nail salons can be breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi, leading to infections and respiratory distress
Nail salons can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can lead to infections and respiratory distress. The basins where customers soak their hands and feet are a common source of foot fungi and bacteria, as a simple rinse between customers is insufficient to prevent the growth of these microorganisms. The tools used during appointments can also be a source of contamination if they are not properly sterilised in an autoclave; dipping them in a sterilising solution is often not enough.
Additionally, the nail filings produced during the manicure process can be released as an ultra-fine dust, which can be inhaled and lead to respiratory issues such as asthma. Multiple studies have shown that nail salon employees are particularly susceptible to occupational asthma and other forms of respiratory distress due to continuous exposure to noxious substances. The use of UV lamps for gel nails can also contribute to respiratory problems, as they emit UV radiation that can cause photoaging and leave nails brittle.
To minimise the risk of infections and respiratory distress, it is essential to ensure proper sterilisation of tools and thorough cleaning of basins between customers. Nail salon employees should also be provided with appropriate respiratory protection to reduce their exposure to nail dust and other airborne particles.
Customers can also take steps to protect themselves by choosing salons that adhere to strict hygiene standards and by being mindful of the potential risks associated with certain nail services, especially those involving UV lamps and power tools. It is also recommended to opt for natural, non-toxic nail polishes that are free from harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). These "three-free" formulas are safer for both customers and salon employees, reducing the risk of respiratory distress and other health issues associated with toxic nail products.
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Nail salon employees are susceptible to occupational asthma, musculoskeletal issues, and other health problems
Nail salon employees are exposed to various health risks due to the toxic chemicals and substances prevalent in nail care products and services. One of the most common issues they face is occupational asthma and other respiratory problems. The fine dust produced during nail filing, whether natural or acrylic, can be inhaled and lead to asthma and other respiratory distress. Additionally, the New York Times article highlights that out of 20 common nail product ingredients listed as hazardous to the respiratory tract by the Environmental Protection Agency, 17 are found in nail products, with overexposure causing symptoms like burning throat or lungs, laboured breathing, or shortness of breath.
The toxic chemicals and substances in nail products also contribute to the elevated risk of reproductive health issues among female nail technicians. According to a report by the New York Healthy Nail Salons Coalition, 17% of the surveyed nail technicians experienced reproductive health issues, and 7% had children with birth defects, which is significantly higher than the general population. The chemicals used in nail salons are abundant and associated with serious health risks, including reproductive toxicity.
Nail salon employees are also susceptible to musculoskeletal issues due to the nature of their work, which often involves repetitive tasks and prolonged periods of standing. The physical demands of the job can lead to problems with the bones, joints, and muscles.
Furthermore, nail salon workers face the risk of other health problems, such as contact or irritant dermatitis on the fingers, which can occur due to an allergy to acetone, a common ingredient in nail products. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from curing lamps used for gel nails can also lead to premature ageing of the skin and nail brittleness.
To mitigate these health risks, it is essential for nail salon employees to be aware of the potential hazards and take preventive measures. This includes ensuring proper ventilation, using personal protective equipment, and practising good hygiene and sanitation practices. Additionally, opting for less toxic and more natural nail products can reduce the exposure to harmful chemicals for both employees and customers.
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Non-biodegradable nail polish bottles end up in landfills, releasing toxic substances into the environment
The environmental impact of gel manicures extends beyond the salon, as the non-biodegradable nail polish bottles often end up in landfills, releasing toxic substances. When nail polish is discarded, it can leach toxic components, such as toluene gas, into the soil and groundwater. Toluene is hazardous to animals, causing reproductive issues when inhaled. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), another common ingredient in nail polish, has been linked to cancerous tumours in breast and prostate tissue with prolonged exposure.
Nail polish bottles are challenging to recycle due to the difficulty of clearing out their contents, leading to the release of toxic residues into the environment. The bottles are often made of glass, which can take over a million years to decompose naturally. As a result, these bottles end up in landfills, contributing to environmental pollution.
To address this issue, it is crucial to dispose of nail polish properly. Some cities have household hazardous waste departments that accept nail polish, recognising its toxicity on par with car batteries and insecticides. Additionally, individuals can opt for eco-friendly nail polish brands that use natural, non-toxic ingredients and biodegradable packaging.
The popularity of gel manicures exacerbates the environmental impact of non-biodegradable nail polish bottles. Gel polishes often contain some of the most toxic chemicals, including toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP, which give them their super-hard and shiny texture. The longer drying time of gel nail polish also means that individuals are exposed to these chemicals for more extended periods.
While gel manicures offer long-lasting results, their environmental footprint cannot be ignored. The disposal of non-biodegradable nail polish bottles in landfills contributes to the release of toxic substances, posing risks to both the environment and human health.
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Nail polish contains harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate
Nail polish contains many harmful chemicals, including formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). These toxins are harmful to everyone who uses them, especially those who are repeatedly exposed, such as manicurists and beauticians. They should also be avoided by pregnant or nursing women and children who have not yet reached puberty.
Formaldehyde is a preservative that has been recognised by the National Cancer Institute as a potential cancer-causing substance. It is also among the most common substances that cause allergic contact dermatitis. It is used to harden and strengthen nail polishes, serving as a preservative that protects against bacterial growth. While formaldehyde is naturally produced by the body in trace amounts, exposure to larger doses in the air or on the skin may cause cancer of the throat, nose, and blood.
Toluene is also harmful, with a long list of effects, including eye irritation, and kidney and nervous system damage. The European Union has restricted the use of toluene in personal care products and advises that pregnant women and children should not be exposed to its fumes.
Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is a member of the phthalate family of chemicals, used in nail polish to minimise chipping. Phthalates are classified as endocrine disruptors and mimic the hormone estrogen in the body. They are proven to impair the hormonal development of male foetuses, cause organ damage and may even instigate early-onset menopause.
Other hazardous chemicals found in nail polish include formaldehyde resin, camphor, triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), xylene, and ethyl tosylamide/epoxy resin.
The good news is that there are now many non-toxic nail polish options available. Some brands have launched vegan-friendly ranges, with formulas free of up to 11 of the most potent chemicals. It is important to do your research and look for brands that list all of the ingredients they use and omit.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nail polishes contain toluene, a toxic chemical that is released into the environment when the polish is discarded. Toluene is known to cause reproductive problems in animals and is linked to cancerous tumours in humans. The non-degradable nature of gel nail polish also contributes to its negative environmental impact.
There are several alternatives to gel nails that are more environmentally friendly. These include water-based nail polishes, natural nail varnishes, and biodegradable glitter polishes. Some brands to look out for include Earthy Nail Polish, EcoStardust, and Abitzon Honey.
Gel nail polish should be disposed of as hazardous waste at designated collection points, such as the HHW collection point.
Yes, there are potential health risks associated with gel nails. The UV lamps used to cure gel nails can cause photoaging and leave your nails brittle. Additionally, the nail salon itself may be a breeding ground for infections and respiratory distress due to unsterilised tools and nail dust.
