Noah Sinclair
Gel nails are popular in the fashion industry, but they come with health risks. The UV or LED lamps used to cure gel nail polish can lead to skin cancer and cause allergic reactions, nail damage, and other issues. Some people are sensitive to the harsh chemicals in gel polish, and the removal process can be damaging, with reports of weakened nails, splitting, and changes to the nail plate. Dermatologists are treating more people for allergic reactions, and there are concerns about the cumulative UV exposure from gel lamps. While gel nails offer a long-lasting, chip-resistant manicure, the potential health risks have sparked debates about their safety.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Itchiness, swelling, burning during application, skin rashes, breathing difficulties, and in rare cases, loss of fingernails |
| Cancer risk | UV radiation exposure from curing lamps increases the risk of skin cancer |
| Nail damage | Nails become brittle, thin, and prone to splitting |
| Health risks | Exposure to toxic chemicals, such as formaldehyde, and prolonged use of nail products |
| Removal process | Can be challenging and time-consuming, potentially damaging nails during the process |
| Alternatives | Regular nail polish, peel-off polish, gel-effect polish, non-toxic natural nail polish, dip powder nails, press-on nails |
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The removal process
There are several alternatives to gel nails, such as a traditional manicure using regular nail polish, peel-off polish, gel-effect polish, non-toxic natural nail polish, dip powder nails, and press-on nails.
It is important to note that the damage caused by gel nails is not limited to the removal process. The use of gel nails has been linked to allergic reactions, nail damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer due to UV exposure. Some people experience brittle, thin nails that split, while others may experience reactions to the harsh chemicals. Repeated use of UV nail lamps can damage human cells, and the damage from UV exposure is cumulative, increasing the risk of developing melanoma.
To minimise the potential damage caused by gel nails, it is recommended to give your nails a break between manicures and to choose reputable salons that maintain proper health and safety standards.
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Allergic reactions
Gel nail manicures can cause allergic reactions in some people. The root cause of these allergic reactions is often an allergy to methacrylate chemicals, which are found in gel nail polish and are used to bond the formula to the nail. These chemicals can penetrate the nail bed and the surrounding skin, causing skin irritation and dermatitis, and in some cases, permanent loss of fingernails.
Some people may also be sensitive to the UV or LED light emitted by the lamps used to cure the gel polish. This exposure to ultraviolet radiation may not be high, but it can lead to increased signs of aging on the hands and fingers. Additionally, the removal process for gel nails can be damaging to the nails, with people reporting weakened nails, splitting, white spots, grooves, and changes to the nail plate.
To avoid allergic reactions and nail damage, some people opt for traditional manicures using regular nail polish, peel-off polish, gel-effect polish, or non-toxic natural nail polish. It is also recommended to leave gel nail applications and removals to professionals, as at-home kits may pose a higher risk due to a lack of regulation and proper training.
Overall, while gel nails can provide a long-lasting and chip-resistant manicure, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take precautions to ensure nail health and safety.
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Skin cancer
While gel manicures and pedicures are commonplace in fashion, they come with health risks. The UV lamps used to cure gel nail polish emit UVA light, which has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer. Dermatologists warn that UV exposure causes DNA mutations, and as these mutations accumulate, the risk of developing melanoma (skin cancer) increases.
The UV radiation from gel lamps can also cause premature ageing and signs of prolonged exposure include itchiness, swelling, and burning during application. The removal process can also be damaging, with individuals reporting weakened nails, splitting, white spots, grooves, and changes to the nail plate. Some people are also sensitive to the chemicals in gel nail polish, which can cause allergic reactions, with symptoms ranging from skin rashes to breathing difficulties.
To minimise the risks associated with gel nails, some sources suggest leaving gel manicures to professionals and only getting them done on special occasions. It is also recommended to give your nails a break between gel manicures and to use sunscreen during the curing process.
There are several alternatives to gel nails that are less damaging, including traditional manicures with regular nail polish, peel-off polish, gel-effect polish, and non-toxic natural nail polish. These options may not last as long as gel nails but can still provide a long-lasting, high-shine manicure without the same level of risk.
Overall, while gel nails may provide a convenient and long-lasting manicure, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take precautions to minimise harm to the skin and nails.
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Nail damage
Gel nail polishes are durable, glossy, and chip-resistant. However, they can be harsh on nails and cause temporary nail damage. Over time, repeated gel manicures can damage nails, and some people are sensitive to the chemicals in gel polish. Some people experience brittle, thin nails that split, while others may experience allergic reactions to the harsh chemicals.
The removal process is the most common time to experience nail damage. During the removal process, participants reported weakened nails, splitting, white spots, grooves, and changes to the nail plate. The nail plate is the hard, translucent layer that protects the nail bed, which is the skin beneath the nail. When the nail plate is damaged, it can become thin and brittle, and it may even separate from the nail bed. This can lead to pain and discomfort and increase the risk of infection.
The removal process involves soaking the fingertips in acetone for around 15 minutes. Another option is to wrap aluminium foil around acetone-soaked cotton balls on the fingertips. Following removal, individuals should wash their hands thoroughly and moisturise the nails, cuticles, and hands. If possible, people may opt for a hydrating paraffin wax treatment to help restore moisture to the nails and surrounding skin.
In addition to the risk of nail damage, gel manicures also involve UV exposure, which can increase the risk of skin cancer. The UV lamps used to cure gel polish emit UVA light at a spectrum of 340-395nm, which is different from the spectrum used in sunbeds (280-400nm) that have been conclusively proven to be carcinogenic. However, there has been no scientific evidence to support the theory that UV nail lamps are harmful to the skin. That is until recently, when a study by researchers at the University of California, San Diego found that the radiation emitted from UV lamps leads to cancer-causing mutations in human cells.
To minimise the risk of nail damage and UV exposure, it is recommended to leave gel nail applications and removals to professionals and to limit the frequency of gel manicures.
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Safe alternatives
Gel manicures have been linked to several health risks, including allergic reactions, nail damage, and an elevated risk of skin cancer due to UV exposure.
Traditional Manicure with Regular Nail Polish
Regular nail polish is a safer alternative to gel nails as it does not require a UV lamp for curing. It is important to allow enough time for the polish to dry to prevent smudging.
Peel-off Polish
Peel-off polishes are easy to remove and do not require harsh nail polish removers, which can cause headaches, dizziness, and irritation to the eyes, skin, and throat.
Non-toxic Natural Nail Polish
Natural nail polishes are free from toxic chemicals and are a safer option for both the nails and the body.
Dip Powder Nails
Dip powder nails are a long-lasting alternative to gel nails that do not require a UV lamp. They are applied by dipping the nail into a coloured powder and sealing it with a top coat.
Press-on Nails
Press-on nails are a convenient and quick alternative to gel nails. They can be easily applied at home and do not require a UV lamp or harsh chemicals.
Shellac
Shellac is a hybrid between gel and regular polish that offers a high-gloss finish and protects the nails for up to two weeks. It is important to note that shellac still requires curing with a UV lamp, so it may not be suitable for those looking to avoid UV exposure entirely.
Vinylux Nails
Vinylux nails are a trademarked product by CND that consists of a base and colour coat and a top coat. According to the company, it lasts an average of five days without chipping.
Polygel
Polygel is a hybrid formula that combines acrylic powder and clear gel powder. It offers longer wear but may require more maintenance as it needs to be filled in rather than removed and reapplied.
Green Flash
Green Flash is a Parisian import that offers a gel-like manicure without the need for UV lamps. It is cured using an LED light, and removal is easy and acetone-free.
Bioseaweed Gel and West Coast Dips
These brands offer hypoallergenic products that are absent from many ingredients that people with gel nail allergies react to.
It is always recommended to consult with a dermatologist or a medical professional before trying any new nail products, especially if you have experienced allergic reactions in the past.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nails can be toxic to your health. The UV lamps used to cure the polish can lead to cancer-causing mutations in human cells. Dermatologists are also seeing more cases of allergic reactions to gel nails, including nail loss, skin rashes, and breathing difficulties.
There are several alternatives to gel nails, including traditional manicures, peel-off polish, gel-effect polish, and non-toxic natural nail polish.
The removal process is when nail damage is most likely to occur. Nails can become weakened, split, or develop white spots, grooves, and changes to the nail plate.
Signs of an allergic reaction include itchiness, swelling, and burning during application. Some people may also experience allergic reactions to the chemicals in the gel polish, such as methacrylate, which can cause nail loss, skin rashes, and breathing difficulties.
To reduce the risks of gel nails, it is recommended to visit a professional for application and removal. When using a UV lamp, ensure it has the correct wattage and wavelength, and consider applying sunscreen to your hands beforehand.
