Noah Sinclair
Gel manicures are popular due to their longevity and durability, but there are growing concerns about their safety. Dermatologists have warned about the potential harm caused by UV exposure from curing lamps, which can lead to premature skin ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer. Additionally, the removal process can be damaging to nails, and there are risks of allergic reactions to the chemicals in gel nail polishes. While some consider gel manicures safe when applied and removed correctly, others suggest limiting their use to special occasions and opting for safer alternatives.
Are gel nails safe?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Allergies | There is a risk of developing an allergy to gel nails. This can be caused by prolonged contact with gel or improper curing. |
| UV Exposure | Gel manicures involve UV exposure, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and cause premature skin aging. |
| Nail Damage | Gel nails can cause temporary nail damage, such as brittleness, peeling, and cracking. |
| Removal Process | The removal process for gel nails can be damaging to the nails and surrounding skin. It is recommended to see a professional or follow proper removal procedures, such as soaking fingertips in acetone or using cotton balls and aluminum foil. |
| Safety Precautions | To minimize risks, it is recommended to use regulated products from reputable brands, ensure proper curing with a suitable lamp, and apply sunscreen before UV exposure. |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nail polish can cause allergies
While gel nail polish can be a convenient and long-lasting option for many, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with its use, particularly the risk of developing allergies.
Gel nail polish has been linked to an increased risk of allergies, with some people reporting allergic reactions after using gel nail products. These reactions can range from mild skin rashes to more severe symptoms such as nail loss and even breathing difficulties. The root cause of these allergic reactions is often attributed to an allergy to methacrylate chemicals, commonly found in gel nail polishes, which are used to bond the formula to the nail.
The risk of developing an allergy is higher when using gel nail polish due to the prolonged contact with the skin and nails. Improper curing of the gel polish can also increase the risk of allergy development. This is because uncured gel can contain higher levels of chemicals that can come into contact with the nail bed and surrounding skin. Additionally, some people may be allergic to the UV lamps used in the curing process, further exacerbating the issue.
To minimise the risk of developing an allergy, it is recommended to leave gel nail applications to professionals who use regulated products and have lamps that are tested to cure the gel safely. Using cheap, non-regulated products bought online can increase the risk of allergic reactions. It is also important to give your nails a break between gel manicures and to rehydrate your nails with a moisturising product to minimise brittleness and prevent chipping.
While gel nail polish can cause allergies in some individuals, it is important to note that not everyone will experience an allergic reaction. However, being aware of the risks and taking the necessary precautions can help ensure a safer experience when using gel nail polish.
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Gel manicures involve UV exposure
Gel manicures involve curing lamps that emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation to seal the gel nail polish to the nail. While the exposure to UV radiation may not be high, some fingers show increased signs of ageing compared to the rest of the hand. Skin exposure to UV radiation from the gel lamps alone is enough to deter some people from using gel nail polish.
In 2017, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified UV nail lamps as "low risk" for developing skin cancer. However, a recent University of California study found that UV lamps can kill cells, and the risk level has ramped up since. Dermatologists are concerned about the cumulative effect of UV exposure from gel manicures, which can increase the risk of developing melanoma (skin cancer).
To protect yourself from UV exposure during gel manicures, you can apply sunscreen to your hands before going under the lamp. Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, which contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical barrier sunscreens, are much faster-acting than their chemical counterparts.
Additionally, it is important to be proactive with your manicurist. Ask if their tools are sterilised, and ensure they are cleaning and disinfecting them after each client. Avoid letting your manicurist push or cut your cuticles, as this could lead to inflammation and infection.
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Gel nail polish removal can damage nails
The temptation to remove gel polish by picking, ripping, or biting it off should be avoided as it can cause lasting damage. Peeling off gel nail polish removes layers of the nail plate, resulting in thinner, weaker, and more brittle nails over time. This damage can take months to recover from and impact the appearance of subsequent gel manicures.
To safely remove gel nail polish at home, it is recommended to use acetone-soaked cotton balls on the nails, wrapped in tin foil, for approximately 10 minutes. After this, wipe off the softened polish and scrape off any remaining product with a nail file or buffer. It is important to protect the cuticles during this process, as acetone can dry out the nails and surrounding skin. Applying cuticle oil or petroleum jelly can create a barrier to minimize damage.
Additionally, it is advised to leave a gap between gel applications to give nails a break and maintain their health.
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Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling and cracking
While gel manicures can be a convenient and long-lasting option for those looking to maintain their nail polish for an extended period, it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with this cosmetic procedure. One of the most common issues with gel manicures is that they can lead to nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking. This is often a result of the removal process, where improper techniques such as picking at the polish, can cause damage to the nail bed.
To avoid nail brittleness and other issues, it is recommended to be proactive with your manicurist. This includes asking if their tools are sterilized and ensuring they are cleaning and disinfecting their tools after each client. Additionally, it is advised not to let your manicurist push or cut your cuticles, as this can lead to inflammation and infection. Instead, consider using a push-back cuticle remover to gently push back your cuticles without causing any damage.
The removal process of gel nail polish typically involves soaking the nails in acetone, which can be harsh on the nails and surrounding skin. To minimize the impact of this process, it is recommended to only soak the fingertips in acetone or to use cotton balls soaked in acetone and wrapped in aluminum foil. This helps to limit the exposure of the skin to this strong chemical.
Another factor contributing to nail brittleness is the frequent use of gel manicures without giving your nails a break. Dermatologists suggest taking a "nail polish holiday" by going polish-free for one to two weeks or longer between gel manicures. This allows your nails to recover and rehydrate, reducing the chances of brittleness and other issues.
While gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, these issues can be mitigated by following proper care techniques and giving your nails occasional breaks from polish. It's also important to be mindful of the potential risks associated with UV exposure during the curing process and to take the necessary precautions, such as applying sunscreen, to minimize these risks.
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Gel manicures can be safer with proper precautions
While gel manicures may not be the healthiest option for your nails, there are several precautions you can take to make the process safer.
Firstly, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with gel nail polish. Dermatologists have expressed concerns about the UV exposure from curing lamps, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and cause premature skin aging. Additionally, the removal process can be damaging to the nails if not done properly. It is crucial to avoid picking or using other nails to remove the gel polish, as this can lead to nail damage.
To minimize the risks, it is recommended to get gel manicures for special occasions only and to give your nails a break in between. When getting a gel manicure, always ensure your manicurist is using sterilized tools and cleaning them after each client. Ask them to apply or allow you to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before the curing process to protect your skin from UV radiation.
Additionally, be cautious of any signs of allergic reactions, as there have been reports of allergies to gel nail polish. If you experience any unusual changes to your nails or persistent nail problems, consult a board-certified dermatologist.
Proper removal of gel nail polish is crucial to avoid damaging your nails. Instead of picking, make an appointment with your manicurist to have the polish removed safely. You can also remove the polish at home by soaking your fingertips in acetone or using cotton balls soaked in acetone and wrapped in aluminum foil.
In summary, while gel manicures may pose some risks, taking these precautions can help ensure a safer experience. Getting gel manicures occasionally, practicing proper nail care, and being proactive with your manicurist can minimize potential harm to your nails and skin.
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Frequently asked questions
No, gel nails are not considered safe. The UV exposure from curing lamps increases your risk of skin cancer and causes premature skin aging. The removal process can also damage your nails.
There is a risk of developing an allergy to gel nail polish, which can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, and inflammation. In rare cases, people have reported nails falling off, skin rashes, and breathing difficulties.
To reduce the risks, it is recommended to get gel manicures infrequently and only for special occasions. When getting a gel manicure, always apply sunscreen to your hands beforehand to protect your skin from UV radiation. Additionally, ensure that your manicurist is cleaning and disinfecting their tools, and avoid letting them push or cut your cuticles.
