Ava Monroe
There is a concern that gel manicures may cause skin cancer, including melanoma, due to the use of UV nail lamps. While the gel polish itself is not associated with an increased risk of cancer, the lamps and light boxes used to seal the polish emit high levels of UVA radiation, which is a major factor in the development of cancer. Studies have shown that UV light can damage cells and cause DNA mutations, potentially leading to skin cancer. However, the overall threat of cancer from gel manicures is considered low, and more studies are needed to conclusively determine the link between gel manicures and skin cancer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Do gel nails cause melanoma? | There is no conclusive evidence that gel nails cause melanoma. However, studies have shown that the UV light from nail curing lamps can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. |
| Risk factors | The risk of skin cancer from gel nails depends on the frequency of manicures and the length of UV exposure during each session. |
| Protection | Sunscreen, gloves, and limiting the number of gel manicures can help reduce UV exposure and lower the risk of skin cancer. |
| Alternative options | Traditional nail polish, dip powder manicures, and taking breaks between manicures to allow nails to breathe and inspect for abnormalities. |
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What You'll Learn
UV nail lamps and skin cancer risk
The use of UV nail lamps in manicures has raised concerns about the potential risk of skin cancer. While the gel polish itself is not associated with an increased risk of cancer, the lamps used to seal the polish emit ultraviolet radiation, specifically in the form of UVA rays, which have been linked to both premature skin ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Studies have shown that UV light exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer, and that UV nail lamps emit this type of radiation. The level of risk from UVA radiation delivered by nail lamps depends on the frequency of manicures and the intensity of the lamp. The more intense the lamp, and the more frequent the manicures, the higher the risk of potential skin damage. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen to hands before exposure to UV light from nail lamps. Additionally, wearing gloves or fingerless gloves made from coloured cotton or a polymer with titanium dioxide can help protect the skin from UV light exposure.
It is important to note that the evidence regarding the carcinogenic effects of UV nail lamps is limited, and more studies are needed to fully understand the risk. However, a study published in Nature Communications in 2023 found that exposure to UV light from nail lamps caused significant skin cell death and DNA damage in human and animal cells, which could potentially lead to skin cancer. This raises concerns about the chronic use of UV nail lamps and the potential for cumulative damage over time.
To minimise the risk of skin cancer from UV nail lamps, it may be advisable to limit the number of gel manicures and the duration of each session. Additionally, taking breaks between manicures to allow nails to breathe and applying moisturisers can help maintain nail health and make it easier to spot any abnormalities.
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Protecting your skin from UV light exposure
While the risk of developing skin cancer from gel manicures is considered low, it's always a good idea to protect your skin from UV light exposure. Here are some ways to protect your skin from the potential dangers of UV light:
Apply Sunscreen
It is recommended to apply a generous amount of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin. Water-resistant and waterproof sunscreens are also good options. This simple step can significantly reduce your chances of developing skin cancer.
Wear Gloves
Wearing gloves is an effective way to protect your hands from UV light during gel manicures. You can either purchase special manicure gloves with a polymer that contains titanium dioxide, an effective sunscreen, or cut the fingertips off coloured cotton gloves, as they are known to absorb UV light.
Limit UV Exposure
Reducing your exposure to UV light is a straightforward way to lower your risk. This can be done by limiting the frequency of gel manicures and taking breaks between them. Additionally, when outdoors, seek shade, especially between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun's rays are strongest, and wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or long skirts.
Protect Your Eyes
It is important to shield your eyes from UV light. Large-framed and wraparound sunglasses offer better protection than smaller lenses. Some brands of eyeglasses and contact lenses also provide UV protection, but be sure to check the product label or consult your eye care professional.
Be Cautious with Tanning Beds
Avoid the use of tanning beds, as they emit high levels of UVA and UVB rays, which significantly increase the risk of skin cancer, especially if started before the age of 30.
Minimise Acetone Exposure
Acetone, the solvent used to remove gel polish, can dry out your skin and nails. Instead of dipping your fingers in acetone, soak cotton pads in it and apply them to your nails for 10 to 15 minutes.
While the overall threat of cancer from gel manicures is considered trivial, more studies are needed to fully understand the long-term effects. Taking these precautions can help ensure your skin's safety while enjoying gel manicures.
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The cumulative effect of UV exposure
The level of risk from UVA radiation is dependent on the frequency of manicures and the duration of UV exposure during each session. While the exposure time for each layer of polish may range from 30 seconds to a few minutes, there is no standard for how long hands should remain under the lamp, and this can vary depending on the lamp's intensity and the proprietary curing time for each gel polish brand. This lack of standardisation makes it challenging to determine the exact cumulative effect of UV exposure from gel nails.
Research has shown that UV light, including that emitted by nail curing lamps, can cause DNA damage and cell mutations, which are potential precursors to skin cancer. A 2023 study in Nature Communications found that UV nail polish dryers could significantly damage skin cells, with 20-30% of human and animal cells dying after 20 minutes of exposure. While the overall threat of cancer from a single gel manicure may be trivial, the cumulative effect of regular manicures over time is less clear and could potentially increase the risk of skin cancer.
To mitigate the potential risks associated with UV exposure during gel manicures, it is recommended to take precautions such as applying sunscreen to the hands before the manicure or wearing fingerless gloves designed to protect against UV light. Additionally, limiting the frequency of gel manicures and allowing nails to breathe between sessions can help reduce cumulative UV exposure. While gel manicures may not be directly linked to melanoma, the cumulative effect of UV exposure is a valid concern, and taking protective measures is advisable until further research provides a clearer understanding of the long-term risks.
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Alternatives to gel manicures
While the chances of developing skin cancer from gel manicures are low, it is still a good idea to protect your skin from UV light exposure. Here are some alternatives to gel manicures that can help you achieve long-lasting, chip-free nails without the use of UV light:
Dazzle Dry System
The Dazzle Dry System gained popularity during the pandemic and involves four steps: a non-drying nail prep that removes any dirt or oil, a clear base coat with polyurethane, the coloured lacquer, and a film-forming top coat. Celebrity nail stylist Mazz Hanna says, "It comes off just like regular polish, so most of my clients don't realize when I'm using it on them — they just think my manicures last forever."
Essie's Swivel Polish Bottles
Essie's unique swivel polish bottles are renowned for creating long-lasting manicures with just two products. Simply layer on two coats of the colour of your choice and top it off with a single layer of the platinum-grade finish topcoat. The polishes in this line do not require a base coat or a UV lamp and can be removed with regular acetone or non-acetone remover.
Gel Lab Pro Formula
This 2-step formula allows you to transform your favourite regular polishes into long-lasting manicures. It contains green tea to nourish, biotin to stimulate growth, and Aucoumea klaineana extract to fortify nails. Start by painting a layer of the base coat, followed by the colour of your choice, and then the topcoat. No UV lamps or tools are needed for removal.
Press-on Nails
Press-on nails have been applauded by beauty editors for their budge-proof design. Once they're pressed on, they can last for a week or more. Try brands like Glamnetic or BTArtBoxNails for better results.
Vinylux Nails
Vinylux nails are a trademarked product by CND that consists of two products: an all-in-one base and colour coat, and a top coat. According to the company, the system lasts an average of five days without chipping.
Polygel
Polygel is a hybrid formula that offers the benefits of both acrylic powder and clear gel powder. It was originally created for nail technicians, but there are now many at-home kits available, such as the Gelish kit.
Manucurist's Green Flash System
This system involves applying a special base coat, colour, and top coat like a traditional gel system, curing each layer under an LED light. When it's time to remove the manicure, simply place a cotton pad soaked in the Green Flash Nail Polish Remover on each nail and secure it with the brand's nail clips.
Dip Powder Nails
Dip powder nails are another alternative to consider if you don't want to paint your nails yourself.
Additionally, it is recommended to give your nails a break from manicures every few months to allow them to breathe and to spot any abnormalities. You can also minimise your exposure to acetone, which is used to remove gel polish, by soaking cotton pads in acetone and applying them to your nails for 10 to 15 minutes instead of dipping your fingers directly into the solution. During breaks from nail polish, apply petroleum jelly or moisturiser to your nails several times a day to keep them hydrated.
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Spotting abnormalities under the nail
While gel manicures can be a fun way to express yourself, it's important to give your nails a break and spot any abnormalities. Here are some things to look out for:
Colour Changes
Look out for any new or changing dark streaks on your nails, particularly if they are brown or black. This could be a sign of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. Not every dark streak is melanoma, but it's always good to have a dermatologist examine it. Leukonychia, or white nail syndrome, is another abnormality where nails are partially or completely white. This could be a sign of trauma, anaemia, dietary deficiencies, heart or kidney disease, or even poisoning. Yellow nails are usually a sign of a fungal infection, and nails with a greenish-black colour are often indicative of a bacterial infection.
Shape Changes
If your nails are no longer firmly attached to the nail bed, this could be a condition called onycholysis, which may be caused by thyroid diseases. Nails that are flattened and have concavities could indicate iron deficiency, a condition known as koilonychia. Viral warts can also cause changes in the shape of the nail, sometimes resulting in ingrown skin under the nail.
Texture Changes
Nails that are dry, brittle, and prone to cracking or splitting have also been linked to thyroid disease. If the nail surface is rippled or pitted, it may be an early sign of psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis.
Pain and Infection
In some cases, abnormalities under the nail can be painful. Paronychia, an infection around the nail fold and cuticle, can cause inflammation, redness, tenderness, and swelling of the surrounding skin. It is usually caused by irritants, allergens, or the fungus Candida albicans. Severe infections may even lead to nail loss.
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Frequently asked questions
There is a concern that gel manicures may increase the risk of skin cancer due to the use of UV or LED lamps to cure the polish. However, the overall threat is considered trivial as the UV exposure during a gel manicure is much lower than that from tanning beds or direct sunlight. More studies are needed to conclusively prove the link between gel manicures and skin cancer.
To protect your hands from UV exposure during a gel manicure, you can apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to your hands before the manicure. You can also wear gloves with the fingertips cut off or buy fingerless UV gloves designed specifically for nail lamps.
It is recommended to give your nails a break from gel manicures at least every few months to allow them to breathe and to inspect them for any abnormalities. Limiting the number of gel manicures you get will also reduce your exposure to UV light.
Yes, you can consider traditional nail polish or dip powder manicures, which do not require UV light to harden the polish.
Some signs and symptoms of nail melanoma include dark vertical lines on the nails, redness and inflammation, nail separation from the nail bed, darkening of the skin next to the nail, bleeding or nodule development, and thinning, cracking, or distortion of the nail plate.
