Noah Sinclair
Gel manicures can damage your nails, especially if they are not removed properly. Incorrect removal of gel nail polish can lead to nail bed injuries and onycholysis, a condition where the nail plate partially detaches from the nail bed. To prevent damage, it is important to avoid using electric files, not to peel off the gel polish, and to nourish the nails with cuticle oil and moisturizers after removal. Additionally, the UV exposure during the curing process can increase the risk of skin damage. Taking care of your nails and promoting healthy growth is key to restoring them to their natural state after gel manicures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Damage to nail bed | Partial delamination or detachment of the nail plate from the bed that holds it |
| Causes | Over-filing, incorrect removal, allergic reactions, cutting or pushing cuticles, UV exposure |
| Prevention | Avoid electric files, don't peel nails, use acetone and oil for removal, apply sunscreen, leave cuticles alone |
| Treatment | Cuticle and nail oils, hyaluronic acid, biotin supplements, hand lotion, nail conditioners, filing every 3 days |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nail removal techniques
Gel nail polishes can cause nail damage, especially if they are not removed properly. The curing process involves UV exposure, which can increase the risk of skin damage. The polish also contains chemicals that can cause allergic reactions. Therefore, it is important to be careful when removing gel nail polish to avoid damaging your nails.
There are several techniques to remove gel nail polish, some of which can be done at home, and others that are best performed by a manicurist. Here are some common techniques:
- Soaking with Acetone: This is one of the most common methods for removing gel nail polish. It involves soaking cotton balls or pads in acetone and placing them on the nails, then wrapping the nails with foil or plastic food wrap to keep the cotton in place. After 10-15 minutes, the gel polish should come off easily. It is important to note that acetone can be harsh on the skin, so it is recommended to apply petroleum jelly to the cuticles and surrounding skin before starting.
- Using a Gel Nail Polish Remover: This method uses a gel nail polish remover instead of acetone. It is faster and requires fewer tools than the traditional acetone method. Simply apply a thick layer of the remover to the nails and wait for the gel polish to start peeling or cracking, then gently push it off with a metal cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick.
- Filing: This method involves using a coarse nail file to file down the top coat of the gel polish until it is no longer shiny and smooth. However, it is important to note that filing can be damaging to the nails if not done carefully.
- Professional Removal: For the most professional results, it is recommended to visit a salon to have the gel nails removed by a manicurist. They will have the proper tools and techniques to remove the gel polish safely and effectively.
Nail Care After Gel Nail Removal:
After removing gel nail polish, it is important to take care of your nails to restore their natural health. Here are some tips:
- Moisturize: Keep your hands and cuticles well-moisturized using hand cream and cuticle oil. This will help nourish and repair your nails and the skin around them.
- Supplements: Consider taking biotin supplements to support nail health and growth. However, it is important to note that not everyone reacts the same way to biotin, so always consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
- Nail Care Products: Use nail care products such as ridge fillers and nail strengtheners to help restore the health and appearance of your nails.
- Avoid Gel Nails: Try to avoid getting gel nails again too soon, as this can further damage your nails. Opt for regular nail polish or other fast-drying, long-lasting polish options that are safer for your nails.
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The impact of UV exposure
Gel nail polish requires drying under a UV light, and the UV lamps used in this process have been likened to "tanning beds for your hands" by dermatologists. This comparison highlights the potential risks associated with UV exposure during gel nail application.
UVA rays, specifically, are necessary for curing gel nail polish. UVA rays are the most mutagenic wavelength range of the UV spectrum, penetrating the skin more deeply than UVB rays. This deep penetration plays a role in skin cancer development and premature skin aging, such as wrinkles and sun spots. As a result, cumulative UV exposure during gel manicures can increase UV-induced skin damage and the risk of early-onset skin cancer.
Additionally, there is no standard for how long hands should remain under the UV lamp, and the duration of exposure can vary depending on the device and the proprietary gel polish being used. This lack of standardization means that some individuals may be exposed to higher levels of UV radiation than others.
To mitigate the risks associated with UV exposure during gel nail application, some precautions can be taken. These include:
- Applying sunscreen to the hands before the nail-painting process, particularly an SPF 30 or higher mineral sunscreen containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
- Using UV-protective fingerless gloves, which expose the nail bed while protecting the rest of the hand.
- Limiting the frequency of gel manicures to reduce overall UV exposure.
While the current research suggests a potential link between gel manicures and UV-induced skin damage, including an increased risk of skin cancer, more large-scale epidemiological studies are needed to accurately quantify the risk.
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Repairing nail damage
Gel manicures can damage your nails, especially if they are not removed properly. This can cause nail issues such as splitting, dryness, white spots, or thinning.
- Use cuticle oil daily: Cuticle oils deliver vitamins and nourishment, making cuticles look good and helping nails grow faster and stronger. Jojoba-based nail oil is particularly recommended as it is almost molecularly identical to our own body oil, helping to keep the nail flexible and the layers of keratin bonded together.
- Use hand cream: Applying hand cream after cuticle oil will help to lock in moisture. Moisture loss is a common symptom of gel nail damage.
- File your nails every three days: Filing your nails stimulates blood flow, which can increase the delivery of vital nutrients and improve circulation.
- Take biotin supplements: Some people recommend taking biotin supplements to support nail growth and health, although there is limited evidence to support their efficacy.
- Avoid picking or peeling gel manicures: One of the worst things you can do for your nails is to pick or peel gel manicures. If you need to remove your gel manicure, it is best to have it removed by a manicurist.
- Protect your hands from UV exposure: The curing process of gel manicures increases UV exposure, which can cause skin damage. To reduce this risk, apply sunscreen to your hands before going under the lamp or wear UV-protective fingerless gloves.
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The role of cuticle oil
Gel manicures can damage your nails, especially if they are not removed properly. The curing lamps used during the process can increase UV exposure, which can lead to skin damage and an increased risk of cancer. Additionally, the chemicals in gel nail polish can cause allergic reactions, and improper removal can temporarily damage nails, leaving them thin and bendy.
To restore your nails to their natural health after gel manicures, it is essential to take proper care of your nails and cuticles. This is where cuticle oil comes in. Cuticle oil is a moisturising product that helps nourish your nails and keep them looking their best. It helps to keep your skin hydrated, preventing dryness, brittleness, and hangnails. Cuticle oil can also promote healthy nail growth, making your nails stronger and more flexible.
The natural oils found in cuticle oil can penetrate the skin, softening, healing, and protecting your cuticles. It is recommended to apply a few drops of cuticle oil once or twice daily, massaging it into your cuticles and nails. This can increase circulation, stimulate growth, and protect your nails from trauma. Cuticle oil can also be used to protect your nail polish, making it last longer and giving your nails a lasting shine.
Regular use of cuticle oil can help prevent nail issues such as splitting, peeling, and dryness. It is an essential part of any nail care routine, strengthening your nail beds and giving your nails a glossier appearance. Cuticle oil is particularly beneficial if your cuticles are exposed to extreme conditions, such as excessive cold, sun, chlorine, or salty or soapy water.
To summarise, while gel manicures can damage your nails, using cuticle oil is an effective way to restore and maintain nail health. By nourishing and moisturising your nails and cuticles, cuticle oil promotes healthy nail growth and strengthens your nails, making it a valuable addition to your beauty routine.
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Onycholysis
The characteristic symptom of onycholysis is the white discoloration of the detached plate, which occurs because the plate loses its connection with the nail bed, and the capillaries do not shine through it. This condition can be caused by various factors, including mechanical damage, such as filing down the natural nail too much or trauma to the nail bed during gel nail removal. Additionally, the use of certain products, such as primers, bonds, or gel products with uncured monomers, can also contribute to onycholysis.
To treat onycholysis, it is important to first remove all nail coatings and shorten the natural nail. This is because long nails that are no longer attached to the nail bed are more prone to accidents. During the treatment process, it is crucial to keep nails clean and dry, and the use of protective gloves for household chores is recommended. The full nail growth process can take up to six months for hands and almost a year for legs.
To prevent onycholysis, it is advised to avoid injuries and mechanical factors that can cause nail bed trauma. Additionally, proper nail care is essential. This includes avoiding the use of electric files and not peeling gel nails. Instead, it is recommended to have a manicurist remove the gel polish using acetone and nourishing the nails with oil afterward.
In more severe cases of onycholysis, surgical treatment may be required, which involves removing the nail plate. However, for less advanced changes, a visit to a podiatrist for professional advice and treatment is recommended.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nails can cause nail thinning, splitting, dryness, white spots, and allergic reactions such as rashes and hives. The UV exposure from curing lamps also increases the risk of skin damage and cancer.
To prevent damage, ensure your manicurist isn't using an electric file and don't peel the gel off. Instead, have a professional remove the gel with acetone, or rough up the surface with an emery board, soak cotton balls in acetone, and apply them to your nails.
To repair damage, cut your nails down and moisturize and apply cuticle oil multiple times a day. You can also take biotin supplements and use hyaluronic acid or jojoba-based nail oil to promote blood flow and growth.
