Isla Bennett
Gel and acrylic fake nails are a popular choice for those seeking long, stylish nails. While they can be beautiful and expressive, they can also damage healthy natural nails and cause unexpected health problems for a small number of people. The damage is often caused by the removal process, which can involve an acetone soak, filing, or picking, all of which can weaken the nail and cause it to become brittle. Additionally, the UV light used to seal gel nail polish can increase UVA exposure and lead to skin issues if not properly protected. Traditional nail varnish is not without risk either, as it can alter pulse oximeter readings and provide a breeding ground for bacteria. To maintain nail health, it is recommended to take breaks between manicures, rehydrate nails with moisturizing products, and see a dermatologist for any unusual nail changes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Removal process | The removal process for gel and acrylic manicures can wear down natural nails, causing stripes across the ends of the nails, and changes and damage to the capillaries underneath. |
| Nail thinning | Gel and acrylic nails can cause nail thinning to the point of pain when touching the nail beds. |
| Damage to the nail plate | Removal of gel and acrylic nails can peel or shave away fragments of the nail plate, causing the nail to become brittle and appear white (pseudoleukonychia). |
| Fungal infections | Leaving false nails on for too long can cause moisture buildup underneath the nail, creating an environment for onychomycosis (fungal growth). |
| Traumatic onycholysis | Removal of gel and acrylic nails can cause traumatic onycholysis, where the nail is pulled away from the bed underneath, exposing the internal body to the outside world and potentially leading to infection (paronychia). |
| UV exposure | The UV radiation used to seal gel nail polish increases UVA exposure, which can lead to skin cancer and premature skin aging. |
| Health risks | Gels, acrylics, and traditional nail varnish can alter pulse oximeter readings and provide a breeding ground for bacteria. |
| Alternative | Press-on nails are a safer alternative to gel and acrylic nails, as they are made of non-toxic and gentle ingredients. |
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What You'll Learn
Removal of gel fake nails can cause nail thinning and weaken the nail
Gel fake nails can ruin your natural nails, and the removal process is often the most damaging part of the experience. The removal of gel fake nails can cause nail thinning and weaken the nail. This is due to the acetone soak required to remove the gel, which can damage the nail's keratin layers, causing the nail to become brittle and easy to break. The nail plate may also be affected, with stripes running across the ends of the nails, and the nail bed can be over-buffed, causing further thinning and weakening of the nail.
Additionally, the removal process can involve a degree of filing, and if the enhancement has not been softened enough or the nail has been over-filed, this can damage the nail plate and the capillaries underneath. This can lead to traumatic onycholysis, where the nail is pulled away from the bed underneath, creating an entry point for infection.
To avoid nail thinning and weakening, it is recommended to only soak the fingertips in acetone, rather than the whole hand, to reduce the damage to the surrounding skin. Cotton balls can also be used to remove the polish. It is also important to ensure that the gel nails are fully softened before removal to prevent damage to the natural nail.
To care for your nails after gel manicures, dermatologists recommend taking a break from nail polish to allow your nails to repair and rehydrate. Applying a moisturising product, such as petroleum jelly, to your nails and cuticles several times a day can help to minimise brittleness and prevent chipping.
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Gel manicures can increase your exposure to UVA
While gel manicures can make your nails look beautiful, they can increase your exposure to UVA and pose several health risks.
Gel manicures require exposure to ultraviolet light for the polish to harden. The gel contains chemicals called photoinitiators, which require a direct dose of UV light to harden in a process called photoreaction. This process of curing the polish increases your exposure to UVA. According to a study, the short amount of time your hands are exposed to UV nail lamps during a gel manicure is equivalent to the recommended limit of UV rays for an entire day.
UVA rays are the most mutagenic wavelength range of the UV spectrum, penetrating the skin more deeply than UVB rays. They play a role in skin cancer development and premature skin aging, including wrinkles and sun spots. Studies show that UV light can increase your risk of skin cancer, and experts have long been concerned about the impact of exposure to certain lights, including UV light.
To reduce the risk of UV exposure during gel manicures, you can apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before your appointment. You can also wear dark, fingerless gloves during the manicure to protect your hands from UV light.
It is important to note that the removal process of gel manicures can also damage your natural nails. The process often involves soaking the nails in acetone until the gel softens enough to be gently removed, which can weaken the nail plate beneath and lead to brittleness. Additionally, leaving gel nails on for too long can create an ideal environment for onychomycosis, or fungal growth, due to moisture buildup underneath the nail.
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Gel nails can cause traumatic onycholysis
Onycholysis is typically characterised by white discolouration of the detached plate, as the capillaries underneath do not shine through. While it is not inherently dangerous or painful, it is important to diagnose and treat onycholysis early to prevent potential infections. Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and may include home remedies or, in more advanced cases, surgical intervention.
The risk of developing onycholysis is heightened by the removal process of gel nails, which often involves soaking in acetone to soften the enhancement before gentle removal. However, if the enhancement is not sufficiently softened or if over-filing occurs, it can damage the nail plate and underlying structures, leading to onycholysis. Additionally, leaving gel nails on for too long can create a similar outcome, as moisture buildup underneath the nail creates an ideal environment for fungal growth, which can further contribute to the development of onycholysis.
To minimise the risk of traumatic onycholysis, it is recommended to avoid over-filing or injuring the nail bed during the removal process. Additionally, regular monitoring of the natural nail is crucial, as changes in appearance, such as white marks or stripes, can indicate potential damage or infection. If any alarming changes are observed, it is advisable to consult a podiatrist or specialist for appropriate recommendations and treatment.
In summary, gel nails have the potential to cause traumatic onycholysis, a condition characterised by the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed. While not inherently dangerous, early diagnosis and treatment of onycholysis are important to prevent further complications. Proper nail care, including gentle removal techniques and regular monitoring, can help minimise the risk of developing this condition.
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Gel nails can cause paronychia
The removal process of gel nails can increase the risk of paronychia by damaging the nail plate and weakening the natural nail. Over-filing during gel nail removal can lead to stripes running across the ends of the nails and damage to the capillaries underneath. Additionally, the forceful removal of gel nails can cause traumatic onycholysis, where the nail is pulled away from the nail bed, creating an entry point for bacteria and potential infection.
Leaving gel nails on for too long can also contribute to paronychia by providing a conducive environment for fungal growth. The moisture buildup underneath the nail, caused by prolonged wear, creates an ideal setting for onychomycosis, promoting the growth of fungi such as candida. The nail plate may thicken and become distorted, with transverse ridges, and the infection may spread to cause a serious hand infection (cellulitis) or infectious tendonitis.
To prevent paronychia, it is crucial to take good care of your nails and avoid injuring them. This includes refraining from nail-biting, cuticle picking, or pulling on hangnails. Keeping your nails trimmed and smooth and free from chemicals can also help lower the risk of developing paronychia. Additionally, maintaining dry hands and nails, especially after exposure to water, can reduce the chances of fungal growth and subsequent paronychia.
In summary, gel nails can increase the risk of paronychia through the potential damage caused during their removal and the moisture buildup that occurs when they are left on for extended periods. Proper nail care and hygiene practices are essential to minimize the chances of developing this common nail condition.
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Gel nails can cause onychomycosis
While gel nails can be a fun way to express yourself, they can also have some drawbacks. One of the most concerning issues is the risk of developing onychomycosis, a type of nail fungus.
Onychomycosis is a common nail infection that can affect both the fingernails and toenails. It is caused by dermatophytes, a type of mold that feeds on keratin, the main structural protein in nails. Gel nails can create the perfect environment for these fungi to thrive. As the natural nail is covered by the gel enhancement, it becomes warm, dark, and moist, providing ideal conditions for fungal growth.
Leaving gel nails on for too long without proper care and ventilation can increase the risk of onychomycosis. The nails should be regularly cleaned and dried thoroughly. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the gel nails are not left on for an extended period, as this can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for fungi.
The risk of onychomycosis is not limited to those who get gel manicures. Anyone who uses nail treatments, including gel nail polish and traditional nail polish, can potentially develop this condition. However, the use of gel nails has been associated with an increased risk due to the prolonged coverage and potential for moisture buildup.
To reduce the risk of onychomycosis, it is recommended to take breaks between gel manicures and allow the natural nails to breathe. Proper removal of gel nails is also crucial to prevent damage to the natural nail plate and underlying capillaries. If onychomycosis is suspected, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include topical or oral antifungal medications.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel fake nails can ruin your nails, especially if you do not care for them in the right way. The removal process can cause nail thinning and weaken the nail, leading to brittleness and breakage.
Soak your fingertips in acetone to soften the gel, then gently remove any remaining product. Do not force removal as this can damage the nail plate and the nail's keratin layers.
Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before your appointment to prevent skin damage and premature aging caused by UV radiation.
It is recommended to get gel manicures for special occasions only and to take breaks between applications to allow your nails to repair.
Press-on nails are a safer alternative to gel and acrylic nails as they are made from non-toxic and gentle ingredients. They are also cheaper and easier to apply at home.
