Noah Sinclair
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those wanting long-lasting, chip-free nails. However, they have been known to cause pain and discomfort, with some people reporting that their nails feel thin, brittle, and sore after a gel manicure. This pain can be caused by a number of factors, including the preparation and removal process, as well as the curing process under UV or LED lamps, which can cause heat spikes and, in the long term, skin damage and an increased risk of skin cancer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pain during gel manicure | Heat spikes, an exothermic reaction that releases heat |
| Pain after gel manicure | Temporary nail damage, cumulative UV exposure, allergic reactions, weakened nail plate, dry and brittle nails |
| Pain prevention | Avoid over-filing or buffing, aggressive removal, and thinning the nail plate |
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What You'll Learn
Heat spikes during curing
Heat spikes are a common occurrence during the gel nail curing process, but they can be quite distressing and should be avoided. They are the result of an exothermic reaction, which occurs when the photoinitiators in gel polishes are exposed to UV or LED light, causing the release of heat. The thicker the layer of gel, the more intense the heat spike is likely to be.
To avoid heat spikes, it is recommended to apply several thin layers of gel rather than one thick layer. This allows the gel to cure more evenly and generate less heat. It is also important to use a lamp that is intended for the specific product being used, as using a lamp that releases too much energy for the product can cause the gel to cure too quickly, resulting in a heat spike.
If you have thin nails, you are more likely to experience heat spikes. In this case, it is important to inform your manicurist so that they can take appropriate care. You can also ask your manicurist to flash cure your nails, which involves curing the nails for a few seconds, then removing the hand from the lamp before placing it back in for the rest of the cure.
Over-filing the nail plate can also contribute to heat spikes, as it can thin the nail and reduce its ability to act as a buffer between the nail bed and the heat from the product. It is important to be gentle when preparing and applying gel nails to avoid causing pain and damaging the nails.
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Damage to the nail plate
The pain from gel nails is often due to damage to the nail plate, which can be caused by over-filing, buffing, or aggressive removal of the gel polish. This can thin the nail plate, leading to sensitivity and pain. In some cases, the flesh under the nails may also be affected, resulting in bruised spots and scabby chunks.
To avoid damage to the nail plate, it is important to be gentle during the preparation and application process. If you have thin nails, it is crucial to inform your manicurist so they can take appropriate care. When doing your own nails, apply the gel in thinner coats and avoid etching the nail plate. Use a buffer to remove the shine gently, and be careful not to file too close to your natural nail.
Additionally, the removal process can also contribute to damage to the nail plate. It is recommended to use a peel-off base coat, which allows for easier removal without filing or picking at the nails. Soaking the nails in acetone can also help remove the gel polish, but it may take longer.
The pain associated with gel nails, known as "heat spikes," can be intense and distressing. It is caused by the exothermic reactions that occur when the gel hardens or cures under the UV/LED lamp. While a slight warm sensation is normal, intense heat spikes can indicate that the gel is too thick or has been applied incorrectly.
To summarize, damage to the nail plate can be prevented by being gentle during preparation and application, using thinner coats of gel, and avoiding aggressive removal techniques. Heat spikes can be minimized by ensuring proper gel application and allowing the nails to cure properly under the lamp.
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Allergic reactions
Gel nail polishes contain acrylate and methacrylate, which are known to cause allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis and, less frequently, hives (urticaria). These reactions can manifest as a rash or, in more severe cases, as swollen, red, and painful skin.
Contact dermatitis is a type of inflammation of the skin that occurs when the body comes into contact with a substance that it is allergic to. It can cause symptoms such as redness, swelling, itching, and pain in the affected area. In the case of gel nail polish, this would typically be the hands and fingers.
If you experience an allergic reaction to gel nail polish, it is important to remove the polish as soon as possible and to consult a doctor or dermatologist if symptoms persist or are severe. To remove gel nail polish, it is recommended to use a gentle method such as soaking the nails in acetone or using a hand file to remove as much of the gel as possible before soaking. This is because the removal process can be harsh on the nails and may cause further damage or pain if not done carefully.
Additionally, it is important to note that the UV lamps used to cure gel nail polish can also cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. This is due to the exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which are known to cause skin ageing and DNA damage. As such, it is recommended to limit exposure to these lamps and to prioritize nail health over aesthetic concerns.
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Over-filing or buffing
When you over-file or buff your nails, you are essentially thinning the nail plate. This can lead to a condition called onycholysis, where the nail plate separates from the nail bed. This separation can cause pain and sensitivity, as the underlying tissue is exposed. In addition, over-filing can cause the nails to become dry and brittle, leading to cracking and peeling.
To avoid over-filing or buffing, it is important to be gentle when preparing your nails for a gel manicure. If you are doing your own nails, use a light touch when filing and buffing, and always stop filing once you reach the colour coat. You can also invest in a good-quality nail file that is designed for natural nails, as these tend to be gentler than metal files.
If you are visiting a nail salon, it is important to communicate with your manicurist about your nail health. Let them know if you have thin nails, so they can take extra care when preparing your nails for the gel application. It is also worth noting that you should avoid frequent gel manicures, as the repeated process of filing and buffing can damage your nails over time.
Overall, while gel manicures can be a great way to achieve long-lasting, chip-free nails, it is important to be mindful of the potential risks associated with over-filing or buffing. By being gentle and taking the necessary precautions, you can help ensure that your nails stay healthy and strong.
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Cumulative UV exposure
The use of UV nail lamps to cure gel manicures has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with cumulative UV exposure. UV nail lamps emit ultraviolet (UV) light, mainly UVA rays, which are known to penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB rays and contribute to skin ageing and the development of skin cancer.
The probability of developing skin cancer from UV nail lights increases with cumulative and repeated exposure. While the direct cause-and-effect relationship between gel manicures and skin cancer has not been definitively established, research suggests that UV nail lights may increase the risk. A study published in Nature Communications in 2023 exposed human and animal skin cells to UV light from nail polish dryers, observing significant cell death and DNA damage, which can potentially lead to skin cancer.
The lack of standardisation in the UV nail lamp industry is also concerning. Different brands, bulb wattages, and bulb numbers result in varying UV intensities, and there are no regulations on how long hands should be exposed to UV light during manicures. This inconsistent UV intensity and duration of exposure can lead to unintentional overexposure to UV radiation, increasing the potential risk of skin cancer over time.
To minimise the potential risks associated with cumulative UV exposure during gel nail curing, it is recommended to limit your use of nail lamps and opt for natural drying methods whenever possible. When using nail lamps, applying sunscreen or wearing UV-A protective gloves can provide added protection from UV rays.
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Frequently asked questions
The pain could be due to several reasons. One of the most common reasons is "heat spikes", which are exothermic reactions that release heat during gel manicures. This could be due to the way the manicurist applies the gel, especially if they use a thick layer of builder gel. Additionally, the repeated exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays during the curing process can cause skin ageing and DNA damage, leading to pain.
If you have thin nails, let your manicurist know so they can take appropriate care. If you are doing your own nails, apply the gel in thinner coats and avoid using methods that require roughening the nail surface. Be vigilant in gentle prep and application to avoid thinning your nail plate.
It is recommended to keep your natural nails protected for a while. Avoid harsh chemicals or products, and give your nails time to recover. Soaking your nails in ice water a few times a day can also help reduce pain and inflammation.
