Ava Monroe
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those seeking long-lasting, chip-free nail polish. However, the process of applying and removing gel nail polish can be damaging to nails. The curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer. Additionally, the chemicals in gel nail polish can cause allergic reactions, and the repeated use of manicure tools can lead to mechanical damage, such as thinning and peeling of the nails. While gel manicures may be convenient and aesthetically pleasing, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to minimise nail damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Damage to nails | Filing and removing gel polish can damage nails. |
| The curing process involves exposure to UV radiation, which can cause skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. | |
| Gel polish can cause nail brittleness, peeling, cracking, and white spots. | |
| The tools used to apply and remove gel nails may cause damage if not properly sterilized. | |
| Prevention/Mitigation | Wear sunscreen before getting a gel manicure to prevent skin damage. |
| Allow time between manicures for nails to recover. | |
| Remove gel polish carefully to prevent nail damage. | |
| Moisturize nails and cuticles after removing gel polish. |
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What You'll Learn
Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling, cracking, and dryness
While gel manicures can be beautiful and long-lasting, they can be tough on nails. Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking. Repeated use can increase the risk for skin cancer and premature skin aging on the hands. The curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which causes skin aging and DNA damage that can lead to cancer. Additionally, the process of removing gel polish can be damaging to the nails if not done carefully. It is recommended to space out gel manicures and give nails a break to allow them to recover.
Dermatologists recommend taking a "nail polish holiday" by going polish-free for one to two weeks or longer to allow nails to repair and rehydrate. Applying a moisturizing product, such as petroleum jelly, to the nails and cuticles several times a day can help minimize brittleness and prevent chipping. It is also important to be proactive with your manicurist and communicate any concerns or issues you may have.
To remove gel polish safely, it is recommended to only soak your fingertips in acetone and avoid forcefully scraping or peeling off the product. Aggressive filing, especially with tools not meant for natural nails, can also cause damage. It is beneficial to scope out the salon beforehand to ensure they follow proper procedures and sterilize their tools to prevent fungal or bacterial infections.
If you are experiencing issues with your nails, such as splitting, dryness, white spots, or thinning, it is important to give them extra care and attention. Cut your nails down, moisturize regularly, and apply cuticle oil to create a more hospitable environment for new nail growth. While you may not be able to fix existing damage, you can promote healthier nails by providing the necessary nourishment and taking a break from gel manicures.
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Gel manicures can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging
UV radiation from the sun causes skin damage and increases the risk of skin cancer, and the same is true for the UV radiation emitted by nail lamps. The hands are already an area at higher risk for skin cancers, and the UV exposure from gel manicures adds to this risk. While the risk from a single gel manicure is likely low, frequent gel manicures over a long period of time could be harmful.
Research has found that UV-emitting nail dryers cause cell damage and mutations consistent with skin cancer. One study exposed human and mice cells to UVA radiation from nail dryers and found that the exposure resulted in cell damage that can lead to skin cancer. Another study found that UV nail dryers may be linked to a diagnosis of melanoma.
To reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging, it is recommended to wear UV-protective gloves or apply sunscreen to the hands before a gel manicure. It is also important to leave cuticles alone and moisturize extensively afterward.
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The curing process involves exposure to UV radiation
The curing process for gel nail polish involves exposure to ultraviolet radiation. This exposure can lead to several adverse effects on the skin and nails. The UV rays cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to cancer. The cumulative bursts of UV exposure during the curing process increase UV-induced skin damage and the associated risks. Dermatologists are particularly concerned about the UV exposure from curing lamps, which has been linked to premature skin ageing and skin cancer.
To mitigate the risks associated with UV exposure during the curing process, it is recommended to apply sunscreen to the hands before the curing process. Broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can be used to protect the skin from UV radiation. Another option is to wear dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips cut off before the nail polish is applied.
In addition to the UV exposure, the curing process itself can be tough on nails. The weight of the gel polish can pull on the edge of the nail, causing tears in the base. This can lead to lifting and peeling back of keratin layers, resulting in mechanical damage. It is recommended to not leave a gel manicure on for longer than two to three weeks to minimise this risk.
Furthermore, the removal process of gel nail polish can also lead to nail damage. It is important to remove gel polish with care to prevent temporary nail damage. Aggressive filing, forceful scraping, and the use of tools to peel off the gel polish can all cause harm to the nails. Allowing the gel polish to release instead of forcefully removing it is a better approach.
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The removal process can damage nails
To prevent damage during the removal process, it is advisable to scope out the salon beforehand to ensure they follow proper procedures. One recommended procedure is to file down the polish first to remove the bulk of the product, making it easier to remove the remaining layers. It is also crucial to ensure that the tools used are properly sterilized to prevent fungal or bacterial infections.
After removing gel polish, it is beneficial to wash your hands and apply cuticle oil and moisturizer to nourish your nails and skin. Taking a break between manicures is also recommended to allow your nails to recover. This can be done by not wearing nail polish for one to two weeks or longer and applying moisturizing products, such as petroleum jelly, to your nails and cuticles several times a day.
Additionally, it is important to be mindful of the UV exposure during the curing process, as it can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging. To minimize this risk, you can apply sunscreen to your hands before the curing process and opt for traditional nail polish, which does not require UV curing.
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Filing and buffing can thin the nail plate
While gel nail polish itself does not damage your nails, the preparation process can. Filing and buffing are often done to create a rough surface for the gel to adhere to, but this can thin the nail plate.
Buffing involves removing layers of your nail, so over-buffing can lead to weak, thin nails that are prone to breaking or splitting. It is important to be gentle and avoid creating too much heat and friction when buffing. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid buffing side-to-side, as this can dry out the nails and cause damage. Instead, hold the buffing side parallel to your nail and stroke it across each nail in an X shape.
Similarly, filing your nails too aggressively or in the wrong direction can also damage the nail plate. It is best to file your nails into a round shape, following the curve of your finger. Place the nail file perpendicular to your nail, then angle it slightly and slide it from one corner of your nail to the other in a single direction.
If you are going to use gel nail polish, it is recommended to leave your cuticles alone and moisturize extensively afterward. It is also a good idea to apply sunscreen to your hands before using a curing lamp, as the UV exposure can cause skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, gel nail polish can be bad for your nails. The curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to cancer. Gel manicures can also cause nail brittleness, peeling, cracking, and white spots.
Dermatologists recommend taking a break from nail polish for one to two weeks to allow your nails time to repair. You should also rehydrate your nails by applying a moisturising product, such as petroleum jelly, to your nails and cuticles several times daily.
To protect your nails and skin, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before your gel manicure. You can also wear dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips snipped off before your nail polish is applied.
