Caleb Foster
Gel manicures are popular because they are long-lasting and chip-resistant. However, there are some concerns about their safety. Dermatologists have warned about the potential for UV exposure from curing lamps to cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. There is also a risk of nail damage during the removal process, and some people may experience allergic reactions to the chemicals in gel nail polish. To minimise the risks, dermatologists recommend taking a break from gel manicures, moisturising nails and cuticles, and being careful to clean up any gel that gets on the skin.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| UV exposure | Increases the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging |
| Removal process | Can damage the nail |
| Allergic reactions | Can cause nail loss, skin rashes, and breathing difficulties |
| Nail health | Nails need to be kept hydrated and given breaks between polishes |
| Salon hygiene | Tools should be sterilized and disinfected after every client |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nail polish removal can damage nails
One of the most common ways gel nail polish removal can damage nails is by picking, peeling, or chipping away at the polish. This can cause dryness, peeling, and cracking on the nail surface, as well as injury to the nail bed, resulting in white spots. Instead, it is recommended to soak nails in acetone, which can effectively remove gel nail polish. However, acetone can also dry out nails and the surrounding skin, so it is important to protect the cuticles with cuticle oil or petroleum jelly before soaking. Additionally, acetone should only be applied to the nails, as it can irritate and damage the skin.
To safely remove gel nail polish, you can follow these steps:
- Protect your cuticles with cuticle oil or petroleum jelly.
- Cut cotton balls or strips to the size of each nail and soak them in acetone.
- Place the soaked cotton on your nails and wrap them in foil.
- Wait for 10-15 minutes, then wipe off the softened polish.
- Gently scrape off any remaining polish with a nail file or buffer.
It is important to note that gel nail polish removal should be done infrequently, as the UV exposure from curing lamps can have cumulative negative effects. Dermatologists recommend limiting gel manicures to special occasions and giving your nails breaks in between.
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UV exposure from curing lamps
Gel nail polishes are cured and set using ultraviolet (UV) nail lamps. These lamps emit UV radiation, which has been linked to premature skin ageing and skin cancer. Dermatologists are concerned about the potential health risks of UV exposure from these lamps, especially given the lack of standard safety regulations and specific requirements regarding lamp power and wavelength.
The use of UV nail lamps is quite common, with over 87% of nail salons reporting their usage in 2010-2011. While the lamps are typically used to speed-dry regular manicures, they are essential for setting gel manicures. Both UV and LED lamps emit UV radiation, and the latter, despite claims, does not guarantee safer curing.
The risk of developing skin cancer from nail lamps is considered low, with only a few reported cases of squamous cell cancer linked to UV nail lamp exposure. However, the potential for DNA damage, inflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired immune cell function remains a concern. Additionally, under-curing or over-curing of nail products can lead to adverse skin reactions and trigger existing skin problems.
To minimise the risks associated with UV exposure from curing lamps, it is recommended to apply a broad-spectrum ,
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Allergic reactions to gel nails
While gel manicures can be a great way to get long-lasting, glossy nails, they may cause allergic reactions in some people. Gel nail polish is made up of various chemical components, including oligomers, monomers, photoinitiators, pigments, dyes, additives, and solvents. The main compound in gel nail polish is methacrylates, and it is this chemical that people most commonly develop an allergy to.
Symptoms of a gel nail polish allergy can vary depending on the individual's sensitivity, but common symptoms include skin reactions around the nails, such as redness, inflammation, swelling, itching, and fluid-filled blisters. Some people may also experience nail changes, with nails becoming detached from the nail bed (onycholysis) and appearing lifted or separated. In rare cases, individuals can experience more widespread symptoms, such as skin lesions on the hands, lip swelling, or widespread skin lesions, which indicate allergic contact dermatitis. These severe reactions may require treatment with oral antihistamines, which can help to reduce itching and swelling.
If you suspect you may be allergic to gel nail polish, it is important to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. A gel nail polish allergy is usually diagnosed through a process called patch testing, which involves applying small patches containing potential allergens to the unaffected skin and monitoring for any signs of an allergic reaction.
To prevent an allergic reaction to gel nail polish, it is important to be proactive and ask your manicurist about the products they use. If you know you are allergic to a specific chemical, you can check the ingredients of the gel nail polish and avoid those that contain potential allergens. It is also important to never let your manicurist push or cut your cuticles, as this can lead to inflammation and infection. Additionally, always make sure your manicurist is cleaning and disinfecting their tools after every client.
If you experience an allergic reaction to gel nail polish, it is important to stop using the product immediately and consider hypoallergenic alternatives that are free of common allergens. Topical corticosteroid creams or ointments can also help to reduce inflammation, redness, and itching associated with the reaction.
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Nail salon hygiene practices
While gel manicures can be a great way to keep your nails looking polished and pristine, it's important to be mindful of the potential health risks and take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some nail salon hygiene practices to keep in mind:
Clean and Sanitary Environment:
A reputable nail salon should maintain a spotless environment. This includes clean countertops, mirrors, and floors, with no stray nail clippings or debris visible. The bathroom should also be sanitary, and customer areas should be tidy, with recent magazines that aren't too old, as they can harbour germs.
Licensed and Inspected:
Choose a nail salon that is licensed by the state or local authorities. Licensing ensures that the salon adheres to specific hygiene standards and has been inspected by health officials. This gives you peace of mind that the salon meets certain cleanliness criteria.
Sterilization and Disinfection:
Proper sterilization and disinfection of tools are crucial. Look for salons that use autoclave sterilization devices, which kill bacteria and are more effective than simple disinfectants. Clean tools should be placed in the autoclave, following the manufacturer's instructions, for a cycle of around 15-20 minutes. Autoclaves should be regularly tested using spore tests to ensure their effectiveness. If a salon doesn't have an autoclave, they should use hospital-grade disinfectants or dry heat sterilizers as alternatives.
Tool Maintenance and Single-Use Items:
Metal tools, such as scissors, should be cleaned with soap and water or wiped with alcohol before and after each client. Ideally, items like emery boards and pumice stones should be single-use and disposable, or you can bring your own to be safe. If reusable metal files are used, they must be properly sterilized in an autoclave to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria.
Hygienic Practices by Technicians:
Observe the nail technicians' personal hygiene and cleanliness. Are they wearing neat, clean uniforms? Do they wash their hands and your hands/feet diligently before starting the service? These are indicators of their overall hygiene practices.
UV Protection:
Gel manicures involve UV exposure from curing lamps, which can increase the risk of skin cancer over time. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to your hands before the nail-painting process to protect your skin. Mineral sunscreens containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are recommended for faster action.
Cuticle Care:
Ensure your manicurist does not push or cut your cuticles, as this can lead to inflammation and infection. Leaving your cuticles intact helps maintain the natural barrier that protects your nails from bacteria and moisture loss.
Proper Removal:
Avoid picking or using tools to remove gel nail polish. Soak only your fingertips in acetone or use cotton balls soaked in acetone and wrapped in foil to remove the polish. This prevents damage to your nails and protects the surrounding skin.
Remember, it's essential to be proactive about your safety. Ask questions, observe their practices, and don't hesitate to bring your own instruments if you have any concerns. Your health always comes first!
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Caring for nails between gel manicures
While gel manicures can be beautiful and long-lasting, they can be tough on nails. Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, and repeated use can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging on the hands due to UV exposure.
Take a break from nail polish
Try not to wear nail polish for one to two weeks or longer. This will allow your nails to recover from the damage caused by the manicure and give them time to rehydrate and regenerate.
Rehydrate your nails
Apply a moisturizing product, such as petroleum jelly, to your nails and cuticles several times daily. This will minimize brittleness and help prevent your nails from chipping.
Use cuticle oil
Apply cuticle oil to deliver vitamins and nourishment to your nails. Spend a full minute massaging the oil into the cuticle. Less is more when applying cuticle oil. Do not wash your hands for 20 minutes after applying cuticle oil to allow for absorption.
Wear gloves
When doing the dishes or other housework, wear gloves to protect your nails and cuticles from harsh chemicals and abrasion. This will help maintain the health of your nails and extend the life of your manicure.
Be gentle with your nails
Avoid using your nails as tools to pry things open, as this can cause damage to the nail bed and surrounding areas, including the cuticle. Opt for gentle soaps and cleansers to avoid drying out your nails and cuticles.
See a dermatologist if needed
If you notice any unusual changes to your nails or have persistent nail problems, consider seeing a board-certified dermatologist for advice and treatment.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nails are not the healthiest option when it comes to nail cosmetics. The UV exposure from the curing lamps used to set the gel polish can cause DNA damage to the skin, which may result in premature aging and possibly cancer. There is also a risk of developing an allergic reaction to gel nails, with some people experiencing nail loss, skin rashes, and even breathing difficulties.
To make gel nails as safe as possible, you can apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before the nail-painting process. You should also leave your cuticles alone and moisturize your nails and cuticles after the manicure.
When removing gel nail polish, do not pick at the polish or use other nails or tools. Instead, soak only your fingertips in acetone or use cotton balls soaked in acetone and wrapped in aluminum foil. You can also see a professional manicurist for removal.
