Sophia Delgado
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those seeking long-lasting, chip-free nail polish. However, the process of applying and removing gel nail polish has raised concerns about potential damage to natural nails. While some claim that gel nails can ruin your natural nails, others argue that proper techniques and precautions can minimise or prevent such harm. So, do gel nails ruin your own nails? Let's delve into the topic and explore the potential risks and ways to mitigate them.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temporary nail damage | Yes |
| Cumulative UV exposure | Yes |
| Mechanical damage | Yes |
| Nail thinning | Yes |
| Nail sensitivity | Yes |
| Cracking and peeling | Yes |
| White spots and grooves | Yes |
| Overall weakening of the nail plate | Yes |
| Dry and brittle nails | Yes |
| Prolonged exposure to UV rays | Yes |
| Allergic reactions to chemicals | Yes |
| Damage during removal | Yes |
| Damage from harsh chemicals and acidic cleaners | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
The removal process can cause damage
The most common issues with gel nail removal are cracking and peeling, which can take months to resolve as the damaged nail grows out. Other issues include white spots and grooves, or an overall weakening of the nail plate, which can lead to temporary sensitivity. Gel polish can also leave your nails dry and brittle, especially if you don't allow time between manicures for your nails to recover.
To prevent damage, it is recommended to space out gel manicures to give nails a rest. You can also try a peel-off base coat, which makes it easier to remove the gel polish. However, you should be careful not to apply it all the way to the edges, leaving 1-2 mm clear, as washing your hands can loosen the edges.
Additionally, the UV or LED lights used to cure gel nail polish emit UV radiation, which has been linked to premature skin ageing and skin cancer. It is recommended to apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to your hands before the nail-painting process to protect your skin.
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Filing can thin the nail plate
Gel manicures can be tough on nails, with the damage usually occurring during the preparation and removal processes. While gel itself does not damage nails, the prep work involved, such as filing, can thin the nail plate.
Over-filing of the natural nail is one of the most common causes of nail damage. Filing can cause thinning of the nail plate, making it weak and prone to infections. The direction and technique of filing play a crucial role in preventing nail damage. Using a file with an overly coarse grit, such as 80 to 150, or an electric file, can quickly remove a significant number of the nail's cell layers, resulting in thinning and weakening of the nail plate. The ideal grit for filing the natural nail is a finer 180 to 240-grit file. Additionally, using too much downward pressure while filing can also contribute to nail thinning.
To avoid over-filing, it is recommended to only remove the "surface shine" of the nail, which refers to the oils on the nail plate that can interfere with the adhesion of enhancement products. Correct filing of the nail plate should not remove more than 5 layers of the nail plate. It is important to thoroughly clean the nail plate and follow proper nail preparation procedures.
If you wish to avoid the risks associated with over-filing, you can consider alternative methods for gel nail removal. One option is to use a peel-off base coat, which allows the gel to be peeled off instead of soaked off. However, it is important to leave a 1-2mm gap at the edges to prevent the polish from coming off prematurely during handwashing. Another option is to soak only your fingertips in acetone to remove the gel polish, protecting the surrounding skin.
To maintain nail health, it is recommended to take breaks between gel manicures and allow your nails to repair and rehydrate. During these breaks, apply moisturising products such as petroleum jelly to your nails and cuticles to minimise brittleness and prevent chipping. Additionally, consider reserving gel manicures for special occasions and always consult a dermatologist if you notice any unusual changes to your nails.
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UV exposure can cause premature skin aging
Gel manicures can be a great way to achieve beautiful and long-lasting nails. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with the procedure, especially regarding UV exposure and its impact on skin ageing.
UV exposure is a significant environmental health hazard that can lead to premature skin ageing, also known as photoaging. This type of ageing is characterised by wrinkles, altered pigmentation, and loss of skin tone and elasticity. The process is primarily caused by UVA light, which penetrates all layers of the skin, including the dermis, which contains collagen and elastin responsible for the skin's tightness and elasticity. UVB light also contributes to photoaging, and while most UVC light is absorbed by the ozone layer, it can still cause damage.
The use of tanning beds, especially among minors, has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer and premature ageing. This is due to the intense UV exposure, which causes sunburn, immune suppression, and accumulated damage that leads to photoaging and skin cancer. The average age of melanoma diagnosis is about 55, but one-fifth of cases occur in young adults, highlighting the importance of sun protection from a young age.
To protect your skin from premature ageing and other harmful effects of UV exposure during gel manicures, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before the procedure. You can also wear dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips snipped off during the manicure. Additionally, avoid picking at the gel nail polish when it starts to come off, as this can damage your nails. Instead, soak only your fingertips in acetone or use cotton balls to remove the polish gently.
While gel manicures can be enjoyable and aesthetically pleasing, it is crucial to be mindful of the potential risks and take the necessary precautions to protect your nails and skin. Moderation is key, and considering gel manicures for special occasions only can help reduce the potential for damage.
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The curing process can cause allergic reactions
The curing process for gel nails involves placing the nails under UV or LED light to harden the gel. This process can potentially cause allergic reactions in some individuals due to the presence of certain chemicals.
Gel nail polish contains various chemical components, including oligomers, monomers, photoinitiators, pigments, dyes, additives, and solvents. The main compound in gel nail polish is methacrylate, which has been identified as a common allergen. Other potential allergens found in gel nail polishes include formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate. These chemicals can cause an allergic reaction when they come into contact with the skin or if they are inhaled.
The curing process, which involves exposing the gel nail polish to UV or LED light, can trigger an allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to these chemicals. The light activates the photoinitiators, causing the oligomers and monomers to undergo polymerization and harden the gel. However, this process can also cause the release of trace amounts of chemicals, which can lead to skin reactions.
The most common symptoms of a gel nail polish allergy include redness, inflammation, itching, swelling, and fluid-filled blisters around the nails. In rare cases, individuals may experience more widespread symptoms that require oral antihistamines to reduce itching and swelling. Allergic reactions can occur immediately after the curing process or develop over time with repeated exposure to the gel nail polish.
To avoid potential allergic reactions during the curing process, it is recommended to stick to non-acrylate nail polish formulas or traditional nail polish, which is less likely to cause allergies. If you plan to use gel nail polish, it is essential to ensure that the product does not come into contact with your skin and that your nails are fully cured. Consulting with a highly trained professional and performing a patch test before application can also help identify potential allergens and prevent allergic reactions.
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Nail health can be maintained between gel manicures
While gel manicures can be beautiful and long-lasting, they can be tough on nails. The damage from gel manicures usually comes from the preparation and removal processes. However, there are ways to maintain nail health in between gel manicures.
Firstly, it is important to space out gel manicures to give your nails a rest. Try not to wear nail polish for one to two weeks or longer, as this will allow your nails time to repair. During this break, apply a moisturising product, such as petroleum jelly, to your nails and cuticles several times daily. This will help to minimise brittleness and prevent your nails from chipping.
Secondly, when getting a gel manicure, be mindful of the UV or LED lights used to cure the nail polish, as these emit UV radiation. To protect your hands from UV radiation, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before your nail polish is applied. You can also wear dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips snipped off or purchase UV-protective fingerless gloves.
Thirdly, be careful when removing your gel nail polish. Soak only your fingertips in acetone and avoid picking at the polish or using other nails or tools to remove it. Instead, make an appointment with your manicurist to have the polish removed professionally.
Finally, be mindful of your nails when doing household chores. When cleaning, harsh chemicals and acidic cleaners can erode your natural nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nail polish can cause temporary damage to your nails, but the cumulative UV exposure is worse. The UV or LED lights used to cure gel nail polish emit UV radiation, which has been linked to premature skin aging and skin cancer.
Removing gel polish, if not done carefully, can damage your nails. Cracking, peeling, and an overall weakening of the nail plate are common issues.
To protect your nails, dermatologists recommend taking a nail polish break for one to two weeks or longer to allow your nails to repair. You can also apply a moisturising product, such as petroleum jelly, to your nails and cuticles to minimise brittleness and help prevent chipping.
Some alternatives to gel nails include traditional manicures using regular nail polish, peel-off polish, gel-effect polish, and non-toxic natural nail polish.
