Caleb Foster
There are many factors that can damage our nails, including aging, toxic nail polish, and acrylics. While gel nails are long-lasting, rarely chip, and dry quickly, they are not without their risks. The application process involves curing under a UV or LED lamp, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and cause allergic reactions. Additionally, the removal process can weaken nails and cause nail damage. Some people may also be sensitive to the chemicals in gel polish, such as formaldehyde, which can cause skin irritation and other adverse effects. Despite these concerns, gel manicures can be made safer by visiting professionals who follow proper health and safety standards and by taking breaks between manicures to give your nails a break.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pros | Dries quickly, rarely chips, long-lasting |
| Cons | Potential nail damage, exposure to UV rays, skin irritation, allergic reactions, asthma-like attacks |
| Alternative options | Traditional manicure, peel-off polish, gel-effect polish, non-toxic natural nail polish, dip powder nails, press-on nails |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nail polish contains toxic chemicals
While gel nail polishes have become increasingly popular, they contain toxic chemicals that can negatively impact your health and the environment. These toxic chemicals can enter the body through skin contact, inhalation, or absorption through the nail.
One of the primary concerns with gel nail polishes is their use of UV light for curing. This process involves exposing your nails and skin to UVA rays, which can increase your risk of skin cancer. The high-intensity UVA light from curing machines is typically three times stronger than sunlight, and regular exposure during manicures can lead to cumulative UV exposure, increasing the risk of skin damage and cancer.
Additionally, gel nail polishes often contain harmful chemicals, including formaldehyde, which is recognized by the National Cancer Institute as a potential cancer-causing substance. Formaldehyde is also one of the most common substances that cause allergic contact dermatitis. Other toxic ingredients commonly found in gel nail polishes include dibutyl phthalate, toluene, formaldehyde resin, and camphor. These chemicals can not only cause skin irritation and allergies but also pose risks if inhaled or absorbed through the nail.
The removal process of gel nail polish can also be damaging. It typically involves soaking nails in pure acetone, which can be harsh and drying, potentially destroying the natural luster of nails. Forceful scraping or drilling may be required to remove the gel polish, further damaging the nail plate and resulting in brittleness.
However, it's important to note that the risks associated with gel nail polishes can be mitigated by taking certain precautions. These include using non-toxic gel nail polish alternatives, such as Green Flash, which is formulated with natural ingredients and does not contain known toxic ingredients. Additionally, ensuring proper curing techniques, avoiding aggressive buffing and forceful scraping, and giving your nails occasional breaks from gel manicures can help minimize the potential negative effects.
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Allergic reactions and skin irritation
Gel nail polishes are durable, glossy, and chip-resistant. However, they can be harsh on nails and cause allergic reactions and skin irritation.
A survey of 2,118 people who used gel nails found that some individuals experienced itchiness, swelling, and burning during application. Some people are sensitive to the chemicals in gel polish, which can cause skin irritation, such as hives and contact dermatitis. The chemicals in gel nail polishes, such as methacrylates and acrylates, can also cause allergic reactions, including skin rashes and, in rarer cases, breathing difficulties. These chemicals are also used in white dental fillings and joint replacement surgery, so an allergy to gel nails can leave sufferers too sensitized to undergo either treatment.
The risk of an allergic reaction or skin irritation is higher with at-home gel nail kits than with professional salon manicures. This is because the products in home kits are not tightly regulated, and people may not have the proper training to apply them safely. As a result, people using at-home nail kits often have longer periods of contact with irritants in nail products.
To avoid the health risks associated with gel nails, some people suggest sticking to natural nail care and leaving gel nails behind. Dermatologists recommend keeping nails bare for at least 1–2 weeks between manicures to allow nails to recover.
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Nail damage during removal
While gel nail polishes are attractive due to their quick-drying, long-lasting, and rarely chipping nature, they can cause temporary nail damage and increase the risk of skin cancer due to UV exposure. The process of removing gel nail polish can also damage nails, and improper removal can cause further harm.
The removal of gel nail polish requires an acetone soak, which can destroy the natural luster of nails and expose individuals to toxic fumes. To avoid nail damage, it is crucial to let the acetone soak in properly, softening the gel and allowing it to be gently scraped off without damaging the nail. Some individuals opt to grow out their nails and trim off the top instead of removing the gel polish, as this process can leave the natural nail damaged.
To restore the health of nails after gel removal, it is recommended to refrain from applying any nail polish and allow the nails to breathe and heal. This process can take several months, and during this time, individuals can use treatments such as nail strengtheners and nail defense products to repair and stabilize weak and damaged nails.
Additionally, it is important to choose reputable salons that maintain proper health and safety standards when getting gel manicures. At-home gel nail removal kits can also be used, but it is essential to be cautious during the removal process to minimize nail damage.
To summarize, while gel nail polishes offer convenience and durability, they can cause temporary nail damage, and improper removal can exacerbate the issue. To maintain nail health, it is crucial to allow nails to recover, utilize appropriate treatments, and practice safe removal techniques or seek professionals who follow proper procedures.
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UV exposure and skin cancer risk
While gel nail polish has its aesthetic advantages, it is important to be aware of the associated health risks, particularly the increased exposure to UV radiation and its implications for skin cancer.
Gel manicures involve UV exposure, which can increase the risk of skin cancer. The curing process, which involves placing the nails under a UV lamp, is a key concern. The UV rays emitted by these lamps can cause genetic damage to the cells in the innermost part of the top layer of skin, where most skin cancers occur. This damage can alter a gene that suppresses tumors, raising the risk of skin cancer. The cumulative effect of this UV exposure over time can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
The strength of the UV rays and the duration of exposure are crucial factors in determining the level of risk. The UV index measures the intensity of UV radiation at a specific location, and it is important to consider this when assessing the potential dangers. The fairer an individual's skin, the higher their sensitivity to UV rays, and the easier it is for inflammation and sunburn to occur. This sensitivity is determined by factors such as skin complexion, basal complexion, melanin level, and inflammatory response to UV radiation.
Additionally, the frequency of gel manicures can contribute to the cumulative UV exposure. If gel manicures are done regularly, the repeated exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of skin cancer over time.
To mitigate the risks associated with UV exposure during gel manicures, it is recommended to limit the frequency of these treatments and opt for alternative nail polish options. Applying sunscreen before a gel manicure can also provide some protection against UV rays.
It is important to note that skin cancer risk is influenced by various factors, including geographic location, skin complexion, and individual sensitivity to UV radiation. However, taking precautions to protect the skin from excessive UV exposure is crucial to lower the chances of developing skin cancer.
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Safer alternatives to gel nails
Gel nail polish has its perks—it dries quickly, lasts for weeks, and rarely chips. However, the curing process involves UV exposure, which increases the risk of skin cancer. Improper curing can also lead to allergic reactions and contact allergies. Additionally, the removal process can damage your nails, leaving them rough and dehydrated. So, what are some safer alternatives to gel nails?
Firstly, you can opt for a traditional manicure using regular nail polish. While it may not last as long as gel nails, you can extend its wear by using a base coat, your chosen nail colour, and a top coat, such as the Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy Longwear Nail Enamel Diamond Top Coat. You can also try the 2-step Gel Lab Pro formula, which includes green tea to nourish, biotin to stimulate growth, and Aucoumea klaineana extract to fortify nails. This option provides high shine and extended wear without the need for UV lamps or difficult removal tools.
If you're looking for a longer-lasting alternative, consider dip powder nails. This method involves dipping your nails into a coloured powder and sealing it with a top coat. It is a safer alternative to gel nails as it does not require UV light curing. Another option is to use press-on nails, which have come a long way in terms of durability and aesthetics.
For those who prefer the convenience of at-home nail care, vinylux nails are a trademarked product by CND that offers a two-in-one base and colour coat, followed by a top coat. This system provides an average of five days of wear without chipping. If you're looking for a gel-like alternative, Polygel is a hybrid formula that combines acrylic powder and clear gel powder. It offers longer wear but may require more maintenance as you fill in the growth area instead of starting fresh.
Lastly, if you're committed to the gel look, there are safer alternatives to traditional gel manicures. Manucurist's Green Flash system, a Parisian import, involves applying a base coat, colour, and top coat, curing each layer under an LED light. The removal process is also simplified, as it only requires a cotton pad soaked in the Green Flash Nail Polish Remover and special nail clips. This method helps avoid the hassle of wrapping your fingers in aluminium foil.
In summary, while gel nails may be convenient and long-lasting, there are several safer alternatives to consider. Traditional manicures with regular nail polish, dip powder nails, press-on nails, vinylux nails, and safer gel-like options like Green Flash provide similar benefits without the same level of risk associated with gel nails. Remember, it's always important to properly care for your nails and give them breaks between manicures to maintain their health.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nail polishes are loaded with toxic chemicals and known carcinogens. However, there are non-toxic gel nail polishes available that are free from harmful chemicals.
The removal process of gel nail polish can cause nail damage, including weakened nails, splitting, white spots, grooves, and changes to the nail plate. Some people also experience itchiness, swelling, and burning during application.
Non-toxic gel nail polishes are made with natural ingredients and safer formulas, prioritizing the health of the user and the environment. They are free from harmful chemicals that can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, allergic reactions, kidney issues, and nausea.
It is recommended to visit a professional for the safe removal of gel nails. To reduce the risk of UV exposure, individuals can wear broad-spectrum sunscreen during gel manicures or pedicures or wear open gloves or socks.
Some brands that offer non-toxic gel nail polishes include Bio Seaweed Gel, Ella+Mila, and Zoya.
