Ava Monroe
Gel nail polish is a popular choice for those looking for a long-lasting, chip-resistant manicure or pedicure. However, the process of applying and removing gel polish has raised concerns about its potential negative effects on nail health. So, is gel nail polish bad for your toenails? This paragraph will explore the risks associated with gel nail polish and provide insights into alternative options for those seeking a healthy approach to nail care.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Speed | Gel nail polish dries quickly |
| Longevity | Gel nail polish lasts for weeks and rarely chips |
| Removal | The removal process can be intensive and damaging |
| Nail health | Gel nail polish can cause nails to become dry, thin, brittle, and susceptible to breaking |
| Nail damage | Gel nail polish can cause cracking, peeling, and weakening of the nail plate |
| Skin damage | The use of UV or LED light during curing can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer |
| Infections | Improper sterilization techniques can introduce bacteria and cause infections |
| Allergic reactions | Gel nail polish contains acrylate and methacryline, which can cause allergic reactions |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nail polish removal can cause temporary nail damage
Gel nail polish can be detrimental to your toenails, and the removal process can cause temporary nail damage. The curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to skin cancer. The use of UV or LED light during curing may also cause potential skin damage from prolonged exposure. The intense process of removing gel polish can leave your nails dry, thin, and brittle, making them more susceptible to breaking, splitting, and damage. This is because the acetone used in removal can strip the nails of their natural oils.
Dr Chey Ranasinghe, a dermatologist, states that cracking and peeling are the most common issues post-removal. People also report finding white spots and grooves or an overall weakening of the nail plate. These issues can take months to resolve as the damaged nail needs to grow out. Additionally, gel polish contains acrylate and methacrylate, which are known to cause allergic reactions such as rashes and hives.
The process of curing gel polish under a lamp is not the healthiest way to decorate your nails. The use of UV light during gel pedicures can increase the risk of developing benign vascular tumours called pyogenic granulomas, which appear as red, raised, and bleeding bumps on or near the nail. Furthermore, gel pedicures use strong chemicals, and prolonged exposure to these chemicals and UV light can result in onychogryphosis. This is a permanent condition where the nail becomes thickened, curved, and resembles a ram's horn.
While gel nail polish offers convenience and longevity, it is important to consider the potential risks to your nail health. The removal process can cause temporary nail damage, and it may take months for your nails to fully recover.
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Gel nail polish contains harsh chemicals
While gel nail polish has its advantages, such as quick-drying, long-lasting, and rarely chipping, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with its use, especially regarding the chemicals it contains.
The use of improper sterilization techniques during the application process can introduce bacteria, leading to infections and conditions like cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection. Additionally, the strong chemicals in gel pedicures can cause onychogryphosis, a permanent condition where the nail becomes thickened and curved, resembling a ram's horn.
To minimize the potential risks associated with gel nail polish, it is crucial to allow time for nails to recover between manicures and to prioritize nail health by letting them breathe naturally and maintaining proper nail care practices, such as trimming, filing, and cuticle care. Consulting with a dermatologist or podiatrist can provide personalized guidance on precautions and alternatives to gel nail polish.
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Gel pedicures can increase the risk of skin cancer
While gel pedicures can be a convenient and long-lasting way to decorate your toenails, there are some associated risks to be aware of. One of the most concerning issues is the potential for gel pedicures to increase the risk of skin cancer.
The curing or hardening process of gel nail polish involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which is a known cause of skin ageing and DNA damage that can lead to cancer. This exposure occurs regardless of the type of lamp used, be it UV or LED. Similar to the concerns surrounding tanning beds, there is no risk-free option when it comes to nail lamps. Even LED lamps, which are often marketed as a safer alternative, still emit UV radiation.
The hands and feet are constantly in use, and it is easy to forget to protect them from UV exposure. Over time, the cumulative effect of this exposure can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer. Additionally, the strong chemicals used in gel pedicures and the prolonged exposure to UV light during the curing process can result in onychogryphosis, a permanent condition where the nail becomes thickened, curved, and resembles a ram's horn. This condition may require medical intervention and can be aesthetically unappealing.
To minimise the potential risks associated with gel pedicures, it is essential to allow time for your nails to recover between applications. Dr. Mark Forman recommends an average of eight weeks between salon visits to allow your nails to regrow and regain their health. He also suggests opting for regular polish or dip powder as healthier alternatives to gel nails. Ultimately, the best option for nail health is to avoid coating the nails altogether, allowing them to breathe and access oxygen naturally.
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Gel nail polish can cause nail infections
While gel nail polish has its advantages, such as quick drying and long-lasting wear, it can also increase the risk of nail infections. The application and removal processes of gel nail polish can introduce bacteria and cause trauma to the nail bed, leading to potential infections.
One such infection is paronychia, which occurs around the nail bed and can be a result of improper sterilisation techniques or injury during the gel application process. This can cause pain, redness, swelling, and pus-filled blisters around the nail. Another possible infection is cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that can develop if the skin is broken during the gel pedicure or removal process. Using harsh chemicals and improper nail preparation techniques can further increase the risk of infection and cause irritation to the nail bed.
The removal process of gel nail polish often involves soaking the nails in acetone, which can strip the nails of their natural oils, leaving them dry, thin, and brittle. This makes the nails more susceptible to breaking, splitting, and other types of damage, creating an opportunity for bacteria to enter and cause an infection.
Additionally, the curing process of gel nail polish under a lamp involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage. While LED lamps are sometimes marketed as a safer alternative, they still emit UV radiation, contributing to the potential for infection and other health concerns.
To minimise the risk of nail infections and other potential issues, it is essential to follow proper techniques and hygiene practices during the application and removal of gel nail polish. Consulting with a reputable salon that follows safety protocols and seeking guidance from a podiatrist or dermatologist can help ensure the safest experience when using gel nail polish.
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Gel nail polish can cause nail discolouration
While gel nail polish has its advantages, such as quick-drying, long-lasting, and rarely chipping, it can also cause several issues, including nail discolouration.
The process of curing gel nail polish under a lamp, regardless of whether it is UV or LED, can lead to skin damage from prolonged exposure to UV light. This exposure can cause skin ageing and DNA damage, increasing the risk of skin cancer. The use of UV light during the curing process can also lead to pyogenic granuloma, a benign vascular tumour that appears as a red, raised, and bleeding bump on or near the nail.
Additionally, the chemicals in gel nail polish can cause allergic reactions, such as contact dermatitis (rash) and, less commonly, hives (urticaria). The removal process of gel nail polish can also lead to temporary nail discolouration and damage. Improper removal, such as soaking nails in acetone for an extended period, can strip nails of their natural oils, leaving them dry, thin, and brittle. This can make nails more susceptible to breaking, splitting, and other damage.
To avoid nail discolouration and other potential issues, it is recommended to allow time between manicures for nail recovery and to opt for regular nail polish or dip powder, which are considered safer alternatives. Consulting with a dermatologist or podiatrist can provide further guidance on nail care and safety precautions.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, gel nail polish can be bad for your toenails. The curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to skin cancer. The use of UV or LED light during the curing process may also cause potential skin damage from prolonged exposure.
The intensive process of removing gel nail polish can leave nails dry, thin, and brittle. This can make the nails more susceptible to breaking, splitting, and damage. The strong chemicals and UV light used in gel pedicures can result in onychogryphosis, a permanent condition where the nail becomes thickened and curved, resembling a ram's horn.
If you want to use gel nail polish, it is recommended to take breaks between salon visits to allow your nails to regrow and become healthy again. Dr. Mark Forman suggests using regular polish with a base coat as a healthier alternative to gel nails. It is also important to ensure that proper hygiene practices are followed during the application and removal of nail polish to minimize the risk of infection.
Alternatives to gel nail polish include regular nail polish, dip powder, and lacquer. Regular nail polish dries on its own and does not involve UV light, making it a safer option. Dip powder is also mentioned as a better alternative to gel nails, although polish-free nails are the healthiest choice as they need to breathe and have access to oxygen.
