Isla Bennett
Nail dip flu is a term used to describe a set of flu-like symptoms that some people experience after getting their nails done with dip powder. These symptoms, which can include a runny nose, watery eyes, headache, sneezing, coughing, sore chest, and nausea, are believed to be caused by an allergic reaction or irritation from inhaling the fine powder or liquid used in the dip system. While not everyone experiences these symptoms, they can last from a couple of hours to several days. To prevent nail dip flu, it is recommended to work in a well-ventilated area, wear a mask, and avoid touching your face during the process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nature of Nail Dip Flu | A set of symptoms that can appear after providing nail services using a dip system, usually the cyanoacrylate version. It is not an official medical condition. |
| Symptoms | Runny nose, watery eyes, headache, sneezing, coughing, sore chest, nausea, irritation, skin irritation, nasal congestion, and respiratory irritation. |
| Duration | A couple of hours to several days |
| Causes | Allergic reaction or irritation caused by dipping liquids, dip powder, or both. |
| Prevention | Wear a medical or construction mask, work in a well-ventilated area, use vapour extraction, wear fingerless gloves, long sleeves, and pants, avoid touching your face, and wash your hands after the service. |
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What You'll Learn
Dip flu is not an official medical condition
"Dip flu" is not an official medical diagnosis or condition. It is a colloquial term used to describe a set of symptoms that can appear after providing nail services or getting nail services using a dip system. These symptoms can include a runny nose, watery eyes, headache, sneezing, coughing, sore chest, and nausea. These symptoms are similar to those of seasonal allergies or the common cold, and they can last from a couple of hours to several days.
The dip system is a popular method for applying nail products, and it involves two methods: one using a UV-cured gel with polymer powder, and the other using a cyanoacrylate liquid and an activator or hardener. While some people may experience "dip flu" symptoms every time they use the dip system, others may never experience it, and some may only experience it once. The variation in symptoms and their occurrence may be due to individual sensitivities or allergies to the dipping liquids or powder.
To prevent "dip flu," it is recommended to understand the products used, work cleanly and accurately, ensure proper ventilation, use vapour extraction, and wear a mask and eye protection. Additionally, it is advised to consult a physician if any symptoms occur and to consider having a dermatological patch test to determine any specific allergies.
It is important to note that "dip flu" is not a medically recognised term, and the symptoms may vary or be absent altogether. However, it is always advisable to prioritise health and take preventive measures to avoid any adverse reactions when using nail products.
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Symptoms of dip flu
"Dip flu" is not an official medical term but a description of a set of symptoms that can appear after providing nail services or getting nail services using a dip system. It is not really the flu but more like flu-like symptoms that some people who are sensitive to the dip powder or dip liquids can experience when working with salon-strength nail compounds. The symptoms of dip flu include:
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Headache
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Sore chest
- Nausea
These symptoms can also be likened to those of seasonal allergies. The symptoms are clearly a respiratory reaction rather than a skin reaction, suggesting that the powder or liquids have been inhaled.
The dip system involves two methods. One uses a UV-cured gel where the polymer powder is sprinkled into the uncured gel and then cured. The other involves a cyanoacrylate liquid and an activator or hardener. The cyanoacrylate is an adhesive that can be manufactured in many different viscosities and grades. At its lowest grade, it is what is known as 'Superglue', which is not for cosmetic use.
Resins are used as the base and top coats for dip nails, and the chemicals in these resins could cause dip flu symptoms. Avoid resins that contain formaldehyde, alkyd resins, vinyl, polyesters, or Methyl Methacrylate (MMA).
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Causes of dip flu
"Dip flu" is not a medical term but a description of a set of flu-like symptoms that can appear after providing or receiving nail services using a dip system. It is not an official medical condition, and descriptions of the symptoms may vary. However, it is believed to be caused by an allergic reaction or irritation due to the inhalation of fine dust or fumes from the products used in the dip system.
The dip system involves two methods: one uses a UV-cured gel with a polymer powder, while the other uses a cyanoacrylate liquid and an activator or hardener. The polymer powder is not a light product, and its fine dust can stay in the atmosphere, potentially leading to inhalation. The cyanoacrylate version has been used for various applications and is an adhesive that can be manufactured in different viscosities and grades. At its lowest grade, it is known as "Superglue," which is not intended for cosmetic use.
The dip flu symptoms are believed to be caused by an allergic reaction to the dipping liquids, the dip powder, or both. The liquids used as the base and sealer are often attributed to allergic sensitivities. Resins used as the base and top coats may contain chemicals such as formaldehyde, alkyd resins, vinyl, polyesters, or Methyl Methacrylate (MMA), which could be the culprits of these allergic reactions and dip flu symptoms.
To prevent dip flu, it is recommended to understand the science and specific products used in the dip system. Working in a clean, well-ventilated atmosphere with vapour extraction can help minimise the risk of inhalation. Wearing a mask and eye protection is crucial to protecting oneself from fumes and dip powder dust particles. Additionally, ensuring the salon uses freshly sterilised tools and separate containers for each client can enhance hygiene and reduce the chances of contamination.
While most people may not experience any side effects from dip nails, it is always advisable to monitor your body's response and seek medical counsel if any symptoms occur.
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Preventing dip flu
While "dip flu" is not an official medical diagnosis, it is a term used to describe a set of flu-like symptoms that some people experience after getting their nails done with dip powder. The symptoms can include a runny nose, watery eyes, headaches, sneezing, coughing, a sore chest, and nausea. These symptoms typically last a few hours to several days and can be caused by an allergic reaction or irritation from the dip powder or dipping liquids.
Understand the Science and Your Products
Before using any new product, it is essential to understand the science behind it and the ingredients it contains. Some resins used as base and top coats for dip nails contain chemicals that could trigger "dip flu" symptoms. Avoid products that contain formaldehyde, alkyd resins, vinyl, polyesters, or Methyl Methacrylate (MMA). Additionally, cyanoacrylate, a common ingredient in dip systems, can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Work in a Clean, Well-Ventilated Environment
When applying dip nails, ensure you work in a clean, well-ventilated space to minimise the inhalation of dust particles and fumes. Use an old towel, cloth, or mat that can easily be washed to catch any spilled product or dust. Consider using an air purifier or humidifier to improve the air quality and reduce the amount of dust in the air.
Wear Protective Gear
Protect yourself by wearing a face mask that filters out fumes and dust particles. Some people even opt for a serious gas mask to ensure complete protection. Additionally, wear eye protection to shield your eyes from any irritating substances.
Practice Good Hand Hygiene
After applying your dip nails, shake off all the excess dust outside on a non-windy day. Then, hop in the shower to rinse off any remaining residue on your skin. Avoid excessive hand sanitising, as it can dry out your hands.
Monitor Your Body's Response
Everyone's body is different, and while some people may never experience "dip flu," others may get it every time they do a dip manicure. Pay attention to how your body responds after getting your dip nails done. If you experience any adverse symptoms, consult your physician immediately.
Consider a Patch Test
If you are concerned about developing "dip flu," consider getting a dermatological patch test to determine if you are allergic to any specific ingredients in the dip nail products.
Remember, the key to preventing "dip flu" is understanding your products, working in a clean and well-ventilated space, wearing appropriate protective gear, and monitoring your body's reactions.
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Treatment for dip flu
"Dip flu" is not a medical term but a description of a set of symptoms that can appear after providing nail services using a dip system, usually the cyanoacrylate version. Symptoms include a runny nose, watering eyes, headache, sneezing, coughing, sore chest, and nausea. It can last a couple of hours to several days.
To determine whether "dip flu" is an allergy or irritation, a patch test is required. If an individual is allergic to all acrylates, then cyanoacrylate will be included in this group.
- Take an antihistamine like Benadryl, Zyrtec, or Claritin.
- Use a nasal spray like Flonase or Affrin.
- Use a saline spray.
- Use a fan blowing out of an open window.
- Wear an N95 mask.
- Wear eye protection.
- Put Tiger Balm under your nostrils to block the smell.
- Do your nails outside with a mask on.
- Use a tabletop air purifier.
To prevent "dip flu", consider the following:
- Understand the science and your specific products.
- Work cleanly and accurately.
- Work in a well-ventilated atmosphere.
- Use vapour extraction.
- Wear a mask and eye protection.
- Keep your hand at a safe distance from your face while working on your dip manicure.
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Frequently asked questions
Nail dip flu can last from a couple of hours to several days.
Nail dip flu is a set of symptoms that can appear after providing nail services using a dip system. It is not an official medical condition.
Symptoms of nail dip flu include a runny nose, watery eyes, headache, sneezing, coughing, sore chest, nausea, and skin irritation.
Nail dip flu is caused by an allergic reaction to the chemicals in dip powder or dip liquids. These chemicals include formaldehyde, alkyd resins, vinyl, polyesters, and Methyl Methacrylate (MMA).
To prevent nail dip flu, you can wear a mask and eye protection during the application process, work in a well-ventilated area, and avoid touching your face.
