Liam Carter
Gel manicures are a popular beauty treatment, but they can cause several issues, including pain, allergic reactions, and possible nerve damage. While gel nails themselves do not cause joint pain, those with underlying conditions such as psoriatic arthritis (PsA) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may experience nail abnormalities and should exercise caution when considering gel manicures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pain during gel nail application | Could be due to sensitivity of nails, overly thick layers of gel, or underlying nail health issues/allergies |
| Pain during curing under UV light | Known as a "heat spike" in the nail industry, caused by a chemical reaction that releases a small amount of heat as the gel cures |
| Joint pain and gel nails | Not enough evidence to establish a direct link; however, gel nails may worsen existing psoriasis and cause nail damage |
| Precautions | Wear sunscreen or open gloves/socks during gel manicures to protect skin from UV rays; keep nails bare for at least 1-2 weeks between manicures to strengthen and repair nails |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nails and psoriasis
While some people with psoriasis opt for gel nails to cover up symptoms such as discolouration and pitting, there is some debate about whether this is a good idea.
Some sources, like the American Academy of Dermatology, say that gentle buffing and nail polish are fine. One study added that basic gel nails are a good option for hiding cosmetic nail changes, as long as the person isn’t sensitive to the chemicals involved in the application process.
However, other medical practitioners say that gel nails may add to the strain your nails are under, causing damage or even worsening existing psoriasis. The process of getting a gel manicure exposes your hands to chemicals and to skin or cuticle damage, which can trigger psoriasis. Getting gel nails exposes your skin to many chemicals that could be a trigger for psoriasis. Some people find that they are more likely to develop psoriasis in areas where their skin has experienced damage, an effect known as the Koebner phenomenon.
If you have psoriasis, it is important to take precautions to help protect your nails and prevent damage and disease progression. You can still get basic manicures with nail polish and light buffing. You can also apply nail polish and lightly buff your nails, but you’ll want to avoid fake nails, chemicals, and cutting or pushing on your cuticles.
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Gel nails and psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a form of inflammatory arthritis that causes swelling and stiffness in the joints. It is an umbrella term for both PsA and psoriasis, which is a condition associated with scaly, discoloured patches on the skin. Almost 90% of people living with PsA develop nail involvement, and between 50% and 86% of people with psoriasis experience symptoms that affect their nails.
Nail psoriasis can cause nail changes such as pitting, splitting, brittle nails, and the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed (onycholysis). It can also lead to discomfort, tenderness, or pain that affects your comfort or ability to stand, walk, or use your hands.
If you have PsA, you don't have to skip manicures entirely, but you should take some precautions to protect your nails and prevent damage and disease progression. You can apply nail polish and lightly buff your nails, but you should avoid fake nails, chemicals, and cutting or pushing your cuticles.
Some people with psoriasis find that gel nails help them feel more confident, as they strengthen their nails and make them look nicer. However, others say that gel nails don't help, and may even worsen existing psoriasis. The UV light used to cure gel nails can cause a temporary burning or stinging sensation, and excessive exposure to heat spikes can potentially cause damage to your natural nails.
If you have psoriasis and are considering gel nails, it's important to understand the potential risks beforehand. It's best to talk to your doctor or dermatologist for more information on how nail treatments may affect your psoriasis.
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Allergic reactions to gel nails
While gel manicures are a popular choice for many, some people can experience allergic reactions to gel nails. These allergic reactions can cause discomfort and pain during the application process and may be a result of several factors, including the sensitivity of the nails and the surrounding skin.
One of the primary causes of discomfort during gel nail application is the exposure of the nails and skin to UV light. The UV lamp is necessary to harden the gel, but it can lead to a burning or stinging sensation, particularly if the skin is sensitive or if the gel is applied too thickly. In some cases, individuals may experience a sharp pain or prolonged discomfort, which could indicate an allergic reaction or an underlying nail health issue.
Additionally, some individuals may develop allergies to specific chemicals found in gel nail products, such as HEMA, which has been known to cause allergic reactions in some people. It is important to note that anyone can develop an allergy to any substance, and while gel nails are not entirely without risk, the likelihood of developing an allergy is similar to that of other cosmetic products.
If you experience an allergic reaction to gel nails, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist or medical professional for advice and to explore alternative nail care options.
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Incorrect gel nail application
One of the most common mistakes in gel nail application is applying too much gel polish or overly thick layers. This can lead to problems such as uneven curing, bumpiness, and lifting. It is recommended to apply thin, even layers of gel polish to achieve a smooth finish and proper curing. Additionally, choosing the correct nail size is crucial to prevent discomfort and lifting.
Another mistake is improper nail preparation. Before applying gel polish, it is vital to prepare the nails correctly by removing any remnants of old polish, lightly buffing the nail plate, and pushing back the cuticles. Improper preparation can lead to poor adhesion of the gel polish, resulting in premature chipping and lifting.
Rushing through the application process can also lead to issues. Studies show that rushing is behind about 40% of early chip problems. Taking the time to follow proper nail care practices and allowing the gel to cure properly under the UV or LED lamp is essential for a long-lasting manicure.
Other mistakes to avoid include overloading the brush with gel polish, which can result in messy application and uneven coverage, and neglecting the cuticles, which can cause an untidy appearance and premature lifting of the polish. Additionally, improper curing times can lead to issues such as soft, easily damaged nails or excessive drying and brittleness.
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Underlying health issues
While gel manicures are a popular form of self-care, they can sometimes cause joint pain and other issues due to underlying health conditions. One such condition is psoriatic arthritis (PsA), an inflammatory arthritis that causes swelling and stiffness in the joints. Nail involvement is a common symptom of PsA, with up to 80% of people affected developing nail lesions. Symptoms can include nail pitting, pulling away from the nail bed, splitting, and brittleness. Gel manicures may add to the strain on nails affected by PsA, causing damage or worsening existing symptoms.
Another underlying health issue that can be affected by gel manicures is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While nail changes may not be as painful or debilitating as other RA symptoms, they can still impair everyday functions and have a significant psychological impact. Changes in nail shape, thickness, or colour may be indicators of RA, and joint deformities have been found to be significantly higher in those with nail ridging.
In addition to PsA and RA, gel manicures can also be problematic for individuals with skin sensitivities or allergies. Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the gel polish or the chemicals used in the application process, leading to skin irritation, hives, or contact dermatitis. It is important to note that at-home gel polish kits may pose a higher risk than professional salon manicures due to a lack of regulation and proper training.
Furthermore, improper gel manicure techniques by technicians can also lead to issues such as possible nerve damage. For example, in one case, a woman experienced electric shocks and spasms after getting a gel manicure, which caused her significant pain and discomfort.
Therefore, it is crucial to be cautious and consult with a dermatologist or medical professional before getting a gel manicure if you have any underlying health issues or sensitivities. Taking precautions, such as wearing sunscreen or protective gloves during the manicure, can also help minimize potential risks.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nails themselves are not known to cause joint pain, but they can cause damage to the nails. In addition, people with joint pain caused by psoriatic arthritis (PsA) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) often experience nail abnormalities and may need to take precautions when getting a manicure.
PsA is a form of inflammatory arthritis that causes swelling and stiffness in the joints. It can also affect the nails, causing pitting, pulling away from the nail bed, nail splitting, brittleness, and discolouration.
RA is a chronic inflammatory disease that can cause joint pain and stiffness, as well as nail changes such as pitting, brittleness, discolouration, and nail ridging.
It is important to ensure that your nail technician is well-trained and follows proper application and removal techniques. You should also take regular breaks between gel applications to reduce potential risks and discomfort.
People who prefer alternatives to gel nails can consider nail polish, light buffing, or hydrating paraffin wax treatments.
