Liam Carter
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those wanting long-lasting, chip-free nails. However, the use of UV nail lamps during the curing and drying process has raised concerns about potential harm to the skin. While the technology is relatively new and research is limited, there are worries about the possible risks of premature ageing, allergies, and skin cancer associated with repeated exposure to UV radiation from these lamps. The intensity and cumulative effects of UV rays are key factors in understanding the potential dangers, with some experts recommending precautions and alternative manicure options to minimise risk.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Skin cancer risk | Yes, UV nail lamps expose users to UVA radiation, which is associated with an increased risk of skin cancer. However, the level of exposure during a gel manicure is likely not high enough to significantly increase the risk. |
| DNA damage | A 2023 study found that UV nail polish dryers can damage DNA and cause mutations in human cells. |
| Allergic reactions | The key ingredient in gel manicures, methacrylates, can trigger allergic reactions, including nail loosening and severe rashes. |
| Skin ageing | UV rays are associated with premature skin ageing. |
| Nail damage | Gel manicures can lead to nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking. |
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Skin cancer risk
The use of gel nail lamps has raised concerns about the potential risk of skin cancer. Gel nail lamps emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily in the form of UVA rays, which are associated with a higher risk of skin cancer. The intensity of the UV rays from gel nail lamps can be stronger than natural sunlight, and the cumulative exposure to UV radiation over time is a significant risk factor for non-melanoma skin cancer.
While the link between UV nail lamps and skin cancer is not yet fully understood, several studies have found that the UV radiation emitted by these lamps can damage DNA and cause mutations in human cells. A 2013 study suggested that long-term exposure to UV nail lamps may increase the risk of cancer and UV-induced skin ageing, while a 2014 study concluded that the risk of developing cancer was small. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has also expressed concern about the potential risks associated with UV nail lamps, with dermatologist Dr Chris Adigun stating that the intense exposure to UV radiation during a gel manicure can cause skin damage over time.
To mitigate the potential risks associated with gel nail lamps, some precautions can be taken. The use of sunscreen or waterproof, broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 50+ sun cream on the hands before UV light exposure can provide protection. Additionally, spacing out the time between manicures and limiting the amount of time under the lamp can reduce UV exposure. Protective clothing, such as fingerless gloves with a UPF 50+ rating, can also block out a significant percentage of UV rays.
It is worth noting that the medical community has only undertaken limited research on the effects of gel nail lamps on the skin, and more studies are needed to determine the exact level of risk associated with their use. While the FDA considers nail-curing lamps to be low-risk, some experts advise against making gel manicures a regular habit due to the potential long-term risks.
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Allergic reactions
The key ingredient in gel manicures, acrylic nails and gel polish, methacrylates, can trigger allergic reactions. Even when professionally applied, if the “uncured” chemicals come into contact with the skin, they can cause a reaction. Allergic reactions may involve the nails loosening, or a severe red, itchy rash, not just on the fingertips, but potentially anywhere on the body that has come into contact with the nails, including the eyelids, face and neck. Depending on the severity of the reaction, an over-the-counter cortisone cream could help, or a prescription cream if needed, and antihistamines can help if there’s itching.
To prevent allergic reactions, you can wear protective gloves, which can block out UVA and UVB rays. Some fingerless gloves are UPF 50+ rated, meaning they block out over 98% of rays. You could also consider switching to a regular manicure, and allow nails to air-dry naturally or use an air blower or fan without UV lights.
While the risk of developing skin cancer from gel manicures is still uncertain, it is known that UVA ray exposure increases your risk of skin cancer, and you need to be exposed to UVA rays to cure a gel manicure. The UV rays emitted by the nail lamps are more intense than those emitted by the sun, and the risk of skin damage and cancer increases over time. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends protecting your hands whenever they are exposed to harmful UV rays. You can apply a waterproof, broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 50+ sunscreen to your hands 20 minutes before UV light exposure.
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Skin ageing
The use of gel nail lamps has raised concerns about the potential harm they can cause to the skin over time. While the primary concern is the risk of skin cancer, there are also worries about premature skin ageing.
UVA rays, which are emitted by gel nail lamps, are the most mutagenic wavelength range of the UV spectrum. They penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB rays and are associated with premature skin ageing and skin cancer development. This type of radiation can cause wrinkles, sun spots, and other signs of ageing. The Skin Cancer Foundation has noted that UVA rays have been linked to premature skin ageing, and that cumulative UV exposure can lead to photo-ageing of the hands.
Additionally, the intensity of the UVA rays emitted by LED lamps used in gel manicures is much higher than that of regular UV lamps or even the sun. This raises concerns about the potential for increased skin damage and ageing.
The degree of skin ageing caused by UV light from gel nail lamps is still a subject of debate. Candice Quinn of MANISAFE London notes that there is limited research on the topic due to the recent popularity of gel nail lamps. However, it is generally accepted that UV radiation, including that emitted by gel nail lamps, can contribute to premature ageing of the skin.
To mitigate the potential risks of skin ageing and cancer, some protective measures can be taken. These include applying sunscreen to the hands before a manicure or wearing fingerless gloves that block UV rays.
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DNA damage
The use of gel nail lamps has been a cause for concern due to the potential DNA damage they can cause over time. Gel nail lamps emit ultraviolet (UV) light, primarily in the form of UVA rays, which are associated with skin ageing and cellular damage that can lead to skin cancer. While the risk of developing skin cancer from UV nail lights is considered low, the probability increases with cumulative use.
A 2023 study published in Nature Communications found that radiation emitted by UV nail polish dryers can damage DNA and cause mutations in human cells. The study exposed isolated human and animal skin cells to UV light from nail polish dryers, resulting in significant cell death and DNA damage. These changes can potentially lead to skin cancer. The study also found that some DNA damage did not repair over time and that exposure may cause mitochondrial dysfunction, which may result in additional mutations.
Another concern is the development of allergies due to repeated exposure to the chemicals in gel manicures. The key ingredient in gel manicures, methacrylates, can trigger allergic reactions, causing nails to loosen or a severe red, itchy rash on the fingertips or anywhere the nails have come into contact with the skin.
While the research is not telling individuals to stop getting gel manicures, it highlights the need for further studies to accurately assess the risk. In the meantime, it is recommended to limit exposure to UV nail lamps and take precautions such as wearing sunscreen or gloves when using them.
Overall, while the convenience and longevity of gel manicures make them appealing, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with their use and to take appropriate measures to minimize harm.
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Lack of regulation
The beauty industry has long been criticised for its lack of regulation, and the nail sector is no exception. The use of gel nail lamps, a popular service offered by nail salons and at-home users, has sparked concerns about potential long-term harm due to the lack of clear and consistent safety standards.
One of the main issues with the lack of regulation
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, using a gel nail lamp can be harmful over time. The UV rays emitted by gel nail lamps are associated with an increased risk of skin cancer and premature skin ageing. In addition, the key ingredient in gel manicures, acrylic nails and gel polish, methacrylates, can trigger allergic reactions.
The UV rays emitted by gel nail lamps are the same type of harmful rays emitted by the sun and indoor tanning beds. In addition, the UV rays emitted by gel nail lamps are often more powerful than the sun's UV rays.
The UV rays emitted by gel nail lamps cause cellular damage, which can lead to premature skin ageing.
You can protect yourself by limiting the amount of time you use the lamp, spacing out the time between manicures, and applying sunscreen to your hands before your manicure.
