Isla Bennett
Gel nail polish is a popular choice for those seeking a long-lasting manicure, but is it safe? The short answer is that while the risks are minimal, there are some precautions to be aware of. The main concerns are the potential for UV exposure from curing lamps, which can cause skin ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer, as well as the potential for nail damage during the removal process. Additionally, there is a risk of developing a gel allergy, which can cause adverse reactions and make you allergic to compounds used in medical settings. To ensure safety, it is recommended to use high-quality gel polishes manufactured for professionals, apply sunscreen before curing, and leave cuticles alone.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| UV exposure | Increases risk of skin cancer and premature skin ageing |
| Removal process | Can damage nails |
| Allergies | Can cause contact allergies |
| Nail damage | Can cause thinning of nail plates |
| Safety | Dermatologists recommend using traditional nail polish instead of gel polish |
| Nail health | Nails should be given a break between gel manicures |
| Sun protection | Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect skin from UV radiation |
| Removal | Gel nail polish should be removed by a professional or using proper removal procedures |
| Moisturization | Nails should be moisturized with products like petroleum jelly or lotion to prevent chipping and brittleness |
| Quality | Higher-quality gel polishes manufactured for professionals are generally safer |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nail polish and UV exposure
Gel nail polishes are cured under UV light, which can potentially increase the risk of skin cancer. While the UV exposure from a single manicure is unlikely to cause significant harm, repeated and prolonged exposure to UV light has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer and other negative effects on the skin. Dermatologists recommend applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to the hands and nails before a gel manicure to mitigate the risk of UV exposure. Additionally, it is advised to protect the hands with fingerless gloves or gloves with the fingertips cut off during the UV curing process.
The UV light used in gel nail curing lamps can cause premature ageing, wrinkles, dark spots, and thinning of the skin. It is classified as UV-A radiation, which is known to increase the risk of skin cancer. A study by the University of California, San Diego, published in "Nature Communications", exposed human and mouse cells to UV light for about 20 minutes, resulting in damage to the cells and DNA. This study confirmed the concerns raised by dermatologists about the potential health risks associated with UV nail dryers.
It is worth noting that the use of acetone to remove gel nail polish can also contribute to nail thinning and weakening. Therefore, it is recommended to give your nails a break between gel manicures and opt for traditional nail polishes or dip powder nails as safer alternatives. Moderation is key when it comes to gel manicures, and they should be reserved for special occasions rather than frequent visits.
To minimise the risk of UV exposure during gel manicures, it is suggested to limit the frequency of gel manicures to a few times a year. Additionally, wearing sunscreen and protective gloves during the curing process can provide added protection. It is also important to ensure proper nail care between gel manicures, such as moisturising the nails and cuticles with products like petroleum jelly to minimise brittleness and prevent chipping.
While gel nail polishes offer durability and long-lasting results, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with UV exposure. By taking the necessary precautions and moderating the frequency of gel manicures, individuals can enjoy the benefits while minimising the potential negative effects on nail and skin health.
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Gel nail polish removal
While gel nail polish is popular, it is not the healthiest option when it comes to nail cosmetics. Dermatologists worry about the UV exposure from curing lamps and the tendency to damage nails during the removal process. Improper gel nail polish removal can lead to damaged nail beds, lifted and jagged edges, and brittle nails. Therefore, it is important to follow the correct procedure when removing gel nail polish.
The first recommended method for gel nail polish removal is to let your nails grow out. Clipping your nails once a week will help remove the gel nail polish and prevent your nails from catching on clothing and other objects. It is important to resist the urge to pick at the gel nail polish, as picking and scraping it off can damage your nails.
The second method involves using a gel nail polish remover or acetone. First, use a coarse nail file to file down the gel top coat layer until it is no longer shiny and smooth. This step makes it easier to take off the polish with acetone later. Then, tear off pieces of cotton balls or pads that are about 1.5 x 1.5 cm, and soak them in acetone. Make sure they are thin but large enough to cover your nail bed. Place an acetone-soaked cotton ball on each nail, then wrap the tip of your finger in foil to hold the cotton ball in place. Let your nails soak for about 10 to 15 minutes.
After soaking, the gel polish should be soft and may look bubbly or curled. Remove the foil and cotton ball, then use a metal cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick to gently push off the gel polish from each nail. If the polish is still not coming off easily, keep soaking the nail with the acetone-soaked cotton ball for a few more minutes. Finally, gently buff your nails to smooth out ridges and uneven edges, being careful not to overdo it, as this can make your nails thin and weak.
As an alternative to foil, plastic food wrap can be used, as it creates a tighter seal, reducing the chances of acetone dripping. After removing the gel nail polish, wash your hands with a gentle, fragrance-free soap to remove the acetone, and apply petroleum jelly to your cuticles and the skin around your nails to reduce any irritation.
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Allergies and sensitivities to gel nail polish
Gel nail polishes can cause allergies and sensitivities, with some experts warning that they can trigger "life-long allergies". The allergy "overwhelmingly" affects women, with one study finding that 2.4% of people tested had an allergy to at least one type of methacrylate chemical. Beauticians are also at risk of developing the allergy as protective gloves may not offer enough protection.
The allergy may result from the gel nail products, which are a type of artificial nail enhancement that offers a glossy finish. The main ingredients typically include oligomers, monomers, photoinitiators, pigments and dyes, additives and dyes, additives, and solvents. One of the main chemicals that can cause allergies is methacrylates, which can seep into the skin and cause an allergic reaction. Hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) is the most common sensitizing methacrylate. Other acrylates can also cause allergies, and these are found in many medical compounds, including those used in dental fillings, orthopaedic surgery, and insulin pumps.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to gel nail polish can include redness, swelling, itching, and nail changes. More severe symptoms can include nails becoming loosened from the nail bed, a severe rash on the face, neck, and upper chest, and even trouble breathing.
If you suspect an allergy to gel nail polish, it is best to avoid using it altogether. Treatment for gel nail polish allergies includes both immediate management of symptoms and long-term strategies to prevent future reactions. This includes stopping the use of gel nail polishes and any other nail products containing the identified allergens, and considering hypoallergenic alternatives. Topical corticosteroid creams or ointments can be used to reduce inflammation, redness, and itching, and in more severe cases, oral antihistamines and oral steroids may be required.
To prevent an allergic reaction, it is important to be proactive with your manicurist and ask if tools are sterilized and disinfected after each client. It is also recommended to avoid letting your manicurist push or cut your cuticles, as this can lead to inflammation and infection. Additionally, applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before a gel manicure can help protect your skin from ultraviolet radiation.
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Safe application and removal of gel nail polish
While gel nail polish can be safe to use, it does come with some risks. The UV light from curing lamps can cause skin damage, and the removal process can also harm your nails. Here are some tips for safe application and removal of gel nail polish to minimise these risks:
Before applying gel nail polish, it is important to take some precautionary measures. Firstly, ensure that your manicurist is using sterilised tools and disinfecting them after each client. You can also ask your manicurist to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before starting the nail-painting process, or you can apply it yourself. This will protect your skin from the UV radiation emitted by the curing lamps. Additionally, do not allow your manicurist to push or cut your cuticles, as this can lead to inflammation and infection.
When it's time to remove the gel nail polish, avoid picking at it or using other nails or tools. Instead, soak only your fingertips in acetone, or use cotton balls soaked in acetone and wrapped in aluminium foil around your fingertips. This will ensure that only your nails come into contact with the acetone. It is also recommended to see a professional or follow proper removal procedures to minimise nail damage.
In between gel manicures, it is important to give your nails a break and let them recover. Moisturise your nails and cuticles with petroleum jelly or lotion several times a day to minimise brittleness and prevent chipping. You can also apply cuticle oil every day while wearing gel polish to keep your nails flexible and prevent peeling during removal.
If you are doing gel manicures at home, invest in higher-quality gel polishes manufactured for professionals, as they are formulated with the user's safety in mind. Ensure you have a strong enough lamp to properly cure the gel and prevent allergies and sensitivities caused by uncured gel.
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Buying safe gel nail polish
While gel nail polish is not the healthiest option for your nails, there are ways to ensure you are buying and using safe gel nail polish.
Firstly, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with gel nail polish. Gel manicures involve UV exposure, which can increase your risk of skin cancer. The lamps used to cure the polish emit ultraviolet radiation, which can be harmful to your skin. Additionally, the process of removing gel nail polish can damage your nails, and prolonged contact with gel can lead to the development of a contact allergy.
To buy safe gel nail polish, consider the following:
- Avoid inexpensive gel polishes from online marketplaces like Amazon. These products are often made with low-quality ingredients and may contain harmful chemicals. They may also be inconsistent in quality and may not cure properly, leading to potential health risks.
- Look for professional-grade gel polishes that are manufactured with safety in mind. These products will have higher-quality ingredients and be designed for safe use with proper tools and techniques.
- Research the brand and its manufacturing process. Find out if they own their manufacturing process, if they outsource it, and how much control they have over the formulation.
- Check for consistent and positive reviews, and look for information about their safety standards and testing procedures.
- Ensure the polymer or HEMA levels are 35% or below.
- Opt for non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free brands that avoid animal-derived ingredients, harsh chemicals, and toxins. For example, brands like Manucurist Green Flash offer LED gel polishes that are cured with LED lights instead of UV lights, reducing UV exposure.
- Take precautions during the application and removal process. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before curing under a lamp. Avoid cutting or pushing your cuticles, and moisturize your nails and cuticles extensively after the manicure.
- Give your nails a break between gel manicures and consider using traditional nail polish or other alternatives like dip powder nails or press-on nails.
By being an informed consumer, you can make safer choices when purchasing gel nail polish. Remember to follow proper application and removal procedures to minimize any potential risks to your nail health and overall well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
The UV light from curing lamps used to set gel nail polish can cause DNA damage to the skin, which may result in premature aging and possibly cancer. The removal process can also damage nails, and prolonged contact with gel can lead to the development of a contact allergy.
To reduce the risk of UV exposure, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before curing gel nail polish under a lamp. You can also wear dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips cut off during the curing process. To avoid nail damage, do not let your manicurist push or cut your cuticles, and do not pick at the polish when it starts to come off. Instead, soak your fingertips in acetone or use cotton balls soaked in acetone and wrapped in aluminum foil to remove the polish.
It is recommended to give your nails a break between gel manicures and to moisturize them with products such as petroleum jelly or lotion to minimize brittleness and prevent chipping.
It is recommended to invest in higher-quality gel polishes manufactured for professionals, as they are safer for both the user and client when used properly. When purchasing gel nail polish, consider the manufacturing process, the brand's reputation, and the availability of safety data sheets. Avoid buying gel nail polish from Amazon, as these products may be made with low-quality ingredients and pose health risks.
