Isla Bennett
Humans have been colouring their nails for thousands of years, with the earliest evidence of nail painting found on Egyptian mummies. In recent years, gel nail polish has become increasingly popular. However, the process of applying and removing gel nail polish can be damaging to the nail bed and surrounding skin. Additionally, there are concerns about the presence of metal in gel nail polish. While gel nail polish does not contain nitrocellulose or an entire polymer, it often contains photoinitiators such as benzoyl peroxide, which breaks down into free radicals upon exposure to ultraviolet radiation. This process may inadvertently increase metal impurities in the polish, such as lead and cadmium, which are not added as ingredients but can be found in trace amounts in some of the other ingredients.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main ingredients | Methacrylates, photoinitiators (e.g. benzoyl peroxide), and pigments |
| Application process | Requires an ultraviolet (UV) lamp to create long polymer chains directly on the nail |
| Removal process | Soak fingertips in acetone, then use a metal scraper to remove softened gel |
| Health concerns | Exposure to UV light may cause brown spots on the skin; Damaging to the nail bed and surrounding skin |
| Metal content | May contain trace amounts of metals such as aluminum, iron, and magnesium, but this varies by brand and colour |
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What You'll Learn
Metal powders in nail polish
Humans have been colouring their nails for thousands of years. In recent years, gel nail polish has become increasingly popular. The conventional nail polishes are mainly composed of nitrocellulose and dyes (pigments) dissolved in a volatile organic solvent. In contrast, gel nail polishes do not contain nitrocellulose or an entire polymer. Instead, they contain the building blocks of polymers, such as methacrylates, in dissolved form. An ultraviolet (UV) lamp is used to create long polymer chains directly on the nail during the application process.
Nail polishes have evolved to include metallic effect pigments that resemble bronze, copper, gold, and silver. These metallic shades in nail polish may contain metal powders such as aluminium, copper, and zinc, as well as mica and bismuth oxychloride. Mica, a mineral used as glitter in cosmetics, may contain iron, aluminium, magnesium, manganese, or barium. While these metals are added intentionally, certain minerals and colorants used in metallic finishes could inadvertently increase metal impurities such as lead and cadmium.
The use of metal powders in nail polish can have potential health implications, particularly for nail technicians. A pilot study conducted in 2017 collected samples from nail polishes, technicians' urine, toenail clippings, and salon surface wipes from nail salons in the Boston area. The study found that metal impurities, such as antimony, aluminium, barium, iron, and magnesium, were present in the samples. These metals were also found on salon surfaces where nail polish was stored or used, indicating potential exposure to nail technicians through inhalation, ingestion, or dermal contact.
To address the potential health risks associated with metal exposures in nail salons, it is important to implement adequate ventilation and personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, proper waste disposal and surface cleaning procedures should be followed to reduce the accumulation of dried nail polish, which can contain metal impurities, on surfaces or in indoor dust.
While metal powders can add unique effects and aesthetics to nail polish, it is essential to be aware of the potential presence of toxic elements and their possible health implications. Further research and regulation are necessary to ensure the safety of both consumers and nail technicians.
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Metal impurities in nail polish
While individual metals found in nail polish do not appear to be from impurities but mainly from colorants (pigments), certain minerals and colorants used in new finishes could inadvertently increase metal impurities. For example, while not added as ingredients, trace amounts of lead and cadmium have been found in some nail polishes. Other metals that have been found in nail polishes include antimony, aluminum, barium, iron, magnesium, manganese, and tin.
The color of nail polish has been suggested as a key determinant of metal impurity levels, with red nail polishes having higher concentrations of barium and strontium compared to other colors. Tin concentrations were also found to be higher in nail polishes with finishes compared to those without.
The presence of metal impurities in nail polish can pose health risks to nail technicians through various exposure routes, including inhalation, ingestion, dermal contact, and contaminated water and food. While the health implications of low-level chronic metal mixtures in nail salons are unclear, it is important to understand the levels of metal impurities in nail polish to protect the health and safety of nail technicians.
In summary, while nail polish may contain metal impurities, these are typically present in trace amounts and primarily originate from colorants rather than impurities. The potential health risks associated with chronic exposure to these metals in nail salons warrant further investigation to ensure the well-being of nail technicians.
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Metal pigments in nail polish
The use of metallic pigments in nail polish has increased the number of shades available to consumers. Metal pigments in nail polish can be in the form of metal powders, aluminium powder, or bismuth oxychloride, which gives a range of silvery tones from dark metallic to bright "foil" effects. Inorganic pigments, which are metal oxides, include titanium dioxide and iron oxides (red, black, and yellow). These materials have high opacity but tend to be dull and "dirty", meaning the colour is not pure but contains a black or brown component.
Organic pigments, on the other hand, are bright and highly coloured, imparting clean colours on the nail. They are often lakes, which are produced by precipitating water-soluble organic dyes onto inorganic substrates.
Toxic elements, such as lead, have been found in nail polishes, and it is unclear if new finishes using metallic effect pigments may be contributing to metal exposure in nail technicians. A pilot study in 2017 found that antimony, aluminium, barium, iron, and magnesium were present in nail polishes and on salon surfaces where nail polish was stored or used. Tin concentrations were higher in nail polish with finishes, and barium and strontium concentrations were higher in red nail polishes compared to other colours.
It is important to note that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the colour additives that can be used in nail enamel and cosmetics. While metallic pigments have expanded the range of shades available, some pigments may not be safe for use, such as certain neon pigments that break down more easily and are not approved in the USA.
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UV light and sun damage
While gel nail polish does not contain metal, it does require ultraviolet (UV) light to harden and set. This process involves the repeated application of a thin layer of the polish, followed by exposure to UV light.
UV light is a type of electromagnetic radiation produced by the sun, and it can also be emitted by artificial sources such as tanning beds and sun lamps. On the electromagnetic spectrum, UV light has shorter wavelengths than visible light, making it invisible to the human eye. However, our skin can feel it, and prolonged exposure to UV light can lead to various adverse effects, commonly known as sun damage.
Sun damage, or photoaging, refers to the changes that occur in the skin due to UV radiation exposure. This damage is caused by the breakdown of elastin fibres in the skin, which results in a loss of elasticity, leading to sagging, stretching, and an increased tendency to bruise and tear. Photoaging is mostly associated with UVA light, which penetrates the skin more deeply and stimulates melanin production. However, UVB light, which is the primary cause of sunburn, also plays a significant role in photoaging and is linked to the development of precancerous cells called actinic keratosis.
The adverse effects of UV light exposure are not limited to photoaging. UV radiation is a proven human carcinogen, causing basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Additionally, it increases the risk of melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer. The risk of developing skin cancer is influenced by factors such as location, skin tone, family history, and the presence of moles or freckles. People with lighter skin tones are generally at a higher risk, while people with darker skin tones are less likely to experience sunburn due to the higher levels of melanin in their skin, which offers some protection against UV rays.
To reduce the risk of sun damage and skin cancer, it is essential to take protective measures. These include applying sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, wearing sunglasses with UV protection, choosing cosmetic products with UV protection, and limiting direct sun exposure during peak UV hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm.
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Metal tools used for gel nail polish removal
Removing gel nail polish can be a difficult task. The process involves re-dissolving the nitrocellulose layer, usually with organic solvents like acetone. Metal tools, such as cuticle pushers and cutters, are often used alongside these solvents to help remove gel nail polish.
Metal cuticle pushers and cutters are available in various shapes, including triangles, to aid in the removal of gel nail polish. These tools are usually made of stainless steel and are designed to be durable and long-lasting. They can be used for both fingernails and toenails.
The metal cuticle pusher can be used to gently push back the cuticles and remove any dead skin or leftover gel nail polish. This helps prepare the nail for the application of new nail polish or other treatments.
Additionally, metal cutters or clippers can be used to carefully trim away any excess or stubborn gel nail polish that may remain after the initial removal process. These cutters are typically small and precise, allowing for detailed work around the nail area.
It is important to note that proper sanitation and care of these metal tools are essential to prevent the spread of bacteria and infections. Proper cleaning and storage of the metal tools will help ensure their longevity and maintain good nail health.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nail polish does not contain nitrocellulose and does not contain an entire polymer. However, it may contain trace amounts of metals such as lead and cadmium, which are not added as ingredients but can be found in some of the ingredients.
You can avoid potential exposure to metals in gel nail polish by choosing brands that do not use metallic pigments or by opting for regular nail polish instead of gel nail polish. Additionally, ensure that the salon you visit follows sanitary practices and uses sterilized tools.
Exposure to heavy metals through nail polish has been linked to potential health risks. For example, high concentrations of antimony were found in some nail polishes, exceeding existing cosmetics guidelines. Metal exposure can also occur through salon surfaces, tools, and dust containing dried nail polish.
