Caleb Foster
There has been a recent surge in reports of people suffering from allergies after getting gel manicures. The British Association of Dermatologists has warned that the main culprit is a chemical called methacrylate, which is found in gel polish and can cause allergic reactions in some people. Gel nail polish allergies can manifest as redness, itching, swelling, blisters, and nail changes. These reactions can be mild to moderate and are usually localized, but they can sometimes spread to other parts of the body. If you suspect an allergy to gel nail polish, it is important to seek medical advice and discontinue the use of the product causing the reaction.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Possibility of allergy | Yes |
| Allergens | Monomers, photoinitiators, acrylates, methacrylates, tosylamide formaldehyde resin, etc. |
| Symptoms | Redness, itching, swelling, blisters, eczema, nail changes, etc. |
| Treatment | Antihistamines, allergy immunotherapy, removal of gel nails, etc. |
| Prevention | Patch testing, hypoallergenic nail products, wearing gloves, etc. |
| Risk factors | Frequent gel manicures, history of contact dermatitis, other allergies, etc. |
| Impact | Can be serious, but usually associated with mild to moderate skin reactions |
| Triggers | Changes in formulation, switching brands, etc. |
| Prevalence | Increasing due to the popularity of gel nails |
| Diagnosis | Patch testing |
| Medical advice | Consult a healthcare provider or allergist |
| Alternatives | Hypoallergenic nail enamels with polyester resin or cellulose acetate butyrate |
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What You'll Learn
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to gel nails
The allergic reaction is caused by the gel nail polish, which contains various chemical components that create a durable and glossy finish. The main ingredients typically includes oligomers, monomers, photoinitiators, pigments, and dyes. When gel nail polish is applied, it remains in a semi-liquid state until it is exposed to UV or LED light. The chemical most responsible for allergic reactions in nail enamel is tosylamide formaldehyde resin, also known as toluenesulfonamide formaldehyde resin.
The nail plate is a dead structure and does not cause an allergic reaction. Instead, the reaction is typically caused by painting the cuticles and direct skin contact with the varnish. Therefore, it is important to avoid getting gel polish on the skin and to ensure that the varnish is cured properly.
If you suspect an allergy to gel nail polish, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider or allergist can help confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment, such as over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines or topical corticosteroids. Treating a gel nail polish allergy involves managing symptoms and preventing future reactions by avoiding the identified allergens.
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Chemicals in gel nails that cause allergies
It is possible to be allergic to gel nails. In fact, in 2018, the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) issued a warning about nail gel polishes, stating that they were causing an "epidemic" of contact allergies.
Gel nail products contain several chemicals that can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. Here are the key chemicals found in gel nails that have been associated with allergies:
Monomers and Photoinitiators
Monomers and photoinitiators are two reactive ingredients commonly found in gel nail products. These chemicals belong to the families of acrylates and methacrylates, which are known skin sensitizers. This means that if they come into contact with the skin, they can cause an allergic reaction. Dr. Deirdre Buckley, a consultant dermatologist, has warned that exposure to these chemicals can lead to "life-long sensitization," making individuals sensitive to acrylates found in other products and even medical devices.
Tosylamide Formaldehyde Resin
Tosylamide formaldehyde resin, also known as toluenesulfonamide formaldehyde resin, is a chemical commonly found in nail enamels, including base coats and top coats. This chemical has been identified as one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with cosmetic allergies. Even a small amount of free formaldehyde present in this resin can trigger an allergic reaction.
Solvents in Nail Enamel Removers
Nail enamel removers often contain strong solvents such as acetone, alcohol, and various forms of acetate (amyl, butyl, or ethyl acetate). These solvents are mixed with fatty materials and work to strip the nail enamel from the nail plate surface. However, due to their high solvent concentration, they can irritate the nail plate and surrounding skin, causing dryness and brittleness if used excessively.
Cuticle Removers
Cuticle removers are another culprit in causing nail cosmetic allergies. These products often contain alkaline chemicals like sodium or potassium hydroxide, which can destroy the skin around the cuticles if left on for too long. This can lead to irritant contact dermatitis, a type of skin inflammation.
Adhesives in Artificial Nails
Artificial nails, including preformed press-on or pre-glued nails, often use adhesives that may cause allergic reactions. Methacrylate-based glues are common and can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Stronger adhesives, such as ethyl 2-cyanoacrylate, have been associated with onycholysis, a condition where the nail lifts off the nail bed.
It is important to note that while these chemicals are commonly associated with allergies, individuals may vary in their specific sensitivities. If you suspect an allergy to any of these chemicals, it is best to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice and to discuss alternative nail products that may be better suited for your skin.
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Treatment for gel nail allergies
Allergic reactions to gel nail polish are rare but can be painful and uncomfortable. The most common symptoms are reddened skin around the manicure or under the nail tip, a red swollen, burning sensation, itching, or contact dermatitis. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is best to seek advice from a medical professional, such as a dermatologist.
The first step in treating a gel nail allergy is to remove the nail polish immediately. This will help limit exposure to the allergen and prevent symptoms from worsening. You can wrap your nails in plastic food wrap instead of foil to prevent further irritation. After removing the polish, wash your hands with warm water and fragrance-free soap, and apply a sensitive skin moisturizer.
To reduce swelling and irritation, you can take over-the-counter allergy medication, such as antihistamines. For mild symptoms, you can use anti-itch creams and topical or oral antihistamines. If the reaction is severe, painful, or affecting a large area, a dermatologist may recommend steroid injections or oral steroids.
To prevent future gel nail allergies, it is important to avoid products that contain allergens you are sensitive to. You can do a patch test or check the composition of the product to identify potential allergens. Hypoallergenic nail enamels that use polyester resin or cellulose acetate butyrate may be an alternative, but sensitivity is still possible.
Additionally, ensure that your nails are fully cured and avoid getting the product on your skin. You can also apply sunscreen to your fingers before curing your nails with UV light to provide some protection.
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Prevention of gel nail allergies
It is possible to be allergic to gel nails. The chemical families acrylates and methacrylates, which are present in gel products, are known to cause allergies. If you are allergic to gel nails, prevention is key. Here are some ways to prevent allergic reactions from occurring:
- Avoid getting gel polish on your skin: The skin around your nails is sensitive, and if gel polish is applied to this area, it can cause an allergic reaction. When doing your nails at home, be careful to only apply the gel polish to the nail itself and not the surrounding skin. If you get gel polish on your skin, remove it immediately.
- Use professional-grade products: Some people develop allergies due to poor-quality gel polishes that won't cure properly. Using gel products developed for professionals can help ensure you are using reputable brands with high-quality, safe ingredients.
- Avoid invasive manicures: Manicures that involve painting under the skin may look beautiful and last longer, but they are more likely to cause irritation and allergic reactions.
- Cure properly: Make sure to cure your gel polish in a UV lamp of the proper wavelength for the specified amount of time. Varnish that is not cured properly can cause allergic reactions.
- Clean your equipment: A dirty LED lamp may not cure the varnish properly, which can lead to an allergic reaction. Regularly clean your manicure LED lamp and change it if needed.
- Minimize exposure: To reduce the risk of developing a gel allergy, minimize your exposure to gel polish. Keep gel usage to a minimum, and leave several months between applications.
- Be cautious with dust: If you are generating dust from your polish, such as when filing your nails after curing, wear a mask and ensure proper ventilation.
- Do a patch test: If you are unsure whether you are allergic to a particular product, do a patch test on a small area of skin before proceeding with a full manicure.
- Check the ingredients: If you know you are allergic to specific chemicals, carefully check the composition of the product and avoid any that contain your allergen.
- See a dermatologist: If you are highly sensitive to nail cosmetic allergens, a dermatologist may be able to provide specific advice and recommendations for hypoallergenic nail products.
Remember, if you experience an allergic reaction, stop using gel products immediately and consult a medical professional if needed.
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Gel nail allergy vs Gel-X nail allergy
It is possible to be allergic to gel nails. While allergic reactions to nail varnish occur relatively rarely and are not dangerous to health, they can be very unpleasant.
Gel-X is a brand name product, whereas gel nails are a general category of nail product. A gel manicure uses gel polish, which is in its liquid form until it is cured (hardened) under UV/LED light. Conversely, Gel-X extensions are pre-hardened before application but require a second curing process to fuse them onto your nails.
Both types of manicures can cause allergic reactions, but the specific chemicals responsible may differ. Gel nail allergies are caused by specific chemicals present in numerous nail products, including Gel-X. These chemicals include methacrylate, acrylate, urethane methacrylate, formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate.
Symptoms of a gel nail allergy or a Gel-X nail allergy may include reddened skin around the manicure or under the nail tip, a red swollen, burning sensation, itching, peeling, or contact dermatitis. In some cases, a gel nail allergy may cause nail damage, including brittleness, breakage, or discolouration.
If you suspect an allergy to gel nail polish, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider or allergist can help confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment, such as an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine or a specialised treatment like allergy immunotherapy.
To prevent an allergic reaction to gel nails or Gel-X nails, it is important to avoid getting gel polish on your skin and to ensure that the gel polish is properly cured. Additionally, maintaining good nail and cuticle health is crucial, as a weakened or damaged nail bed is more susceptible to allergens.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to be allergic to gel nails. The allergy is caused by specific chemicals present in numerous nail products.
The chemical most responsible for allergic reactions to nail enamel is tosylamide formaldehyde resin. Ingredients like methacrylate and acrylate in the gel polish can also cause allergic reactions.
Symptoms can include redness, itchiness, swelling, and blisters around the nails.
If you suspect an allergy to gel nail polish, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can recommend appropriate treatment, such as an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine or allergy immunotherapy.
