Noah Sinclair
Gel manicures are a popular choice for their durability and appearance, but they can have several side effects. The UV exposure from curing lamps can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature skin ageing. The removal process can also damage nails, causing brittleness, peeling, cracking, and nail bed separation. Additionally, the nail glue used in gel manicures may contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, and has been linked to nail glue burns and allergic reactions. To minimise risks, dermatologists recommend allowing nails to repair and rehydrate between manicures, practising proper nail removal procedures, and applying sunscreen before UV exposure.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail damage | Temporary nail damage, nail brittleness, peeling, cracking, nail stripes, changes to capillaries underneath, traumatic onycholysis, pseudo-psoriatic nails, nail loss |
| UV exposure | Increased risk of skin cancer, skin aging, UV-induced skin lesions |
| Allergic reactions | Allergic contact dermatitis, nail glue burns, peripheral neuropathy |
| Fungal infections | Onychomycosis |
| Other | Hides signs of potential existing health issues |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nail removal can cause nail damage
The removal process involves soaking the fingertips in acetone for around 15 minutes, which can be damaging to the skin and nails. An alternative method is to wrap aluminium foil around acetone-soaked cotton balls on the fingertips, ensuring only the nails come into contact with the acetone. However, even with proper removal techniques, the risk of nail damage remains.
To minimise nail damage, dermatologists recommend allowing nails to repair and rehydrate between manicures. This can be achieved by taking breaks of one to two weeks or longer between gel manicures and applying a moisturising product, such as petroleum jelly, to the nails and cuticles several times a day.
Additionally, gel manicures can increase the risk of skin cancer due to UV exposure from curing lamps. This risk can be mitigated by applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to the hands before the gel application.
It is important to note that gel manicures can also cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking. Proper nail care and following tips from dermatologists can help reduce the risk of these side effects.
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UV exposure increases skin cancer risk
While gel manicures are popular for their durability and appearance, they can have several negative side effects, including an increased risk of skin cancer due to UV exposure.
Gel manicures involve curing the polish under a UV lamp, and this repeated UV exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer on the hands. This is because UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin fibres in the skin, causing premature skin ageing and increasing the risk of skin cancer. In addition, the nail glue used to attach acrylic nails contains formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.
To minimise the risk of skin cancer from gel manicures, it is recommended to apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to the hands before the manicure. Alternatively, wearing dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips cut off can protect the hands from UV exposure. It is also important to ensure that the manicurist is using sterilised tools and is cleaning and disinfecting them after each client to prevent infections.
In addition to the risk of skin cancer, gel manicures can also cause temporary nail damage, such as nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking. Repeated use can further increase the risk of nail damage, so it is recommended to leave nails bare for at least one to two weeks between manicures to allow them to strengthen, repair, and rehydrate.
Overall, while gel manicures can be a popular choice for their aesthetic and durability, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with UV exposure and take the necessary precautions to minimise these risks.
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Nail glue can cause skin burns and infections
While gel manicures are popular for their durability and appearance, they can have adverse effects on nail health. One of the most significant concerns is the risk of skin burns and infections caused by nail glue.
Nail glue, which is used to attach acrylic nails to natural nails, typically contains a mixture of alcohol, cyanoacrylate, and photo-bonded methacrylate, along with other ingredients such as formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. In some cases, spills of nail glue onto clothing have resulted in burns and skin damage, as the glue can burn through fabric. This damaged skin is then at risk of becoming infected.
Additionally, prolonged wear of gel nails can lead to pseudo-psoriatic nails, where extra skin grows under the nail, resembling psoriasis. Many people with this condition have tested positive for an allergy to methyl methacrylate, an ingredient in nail glue. In severe cases, this allergy can cause the permanent loss of fingernails.
To minimise the risk of skin burns and infections associated with nail glue, it is important to practice proper nail care and maintenance. This includes regularly checking your nails for any signs of abnormalities, such as cracks, spots, or discolouration. It is also recommended to leave your nails bare for at least one to two weeks between manicures to allow them to strengthen, repair, and rehydrate.
If you choose to have gel manicures, it is essential to prioritise nail health and be cautious of the potential risks associated with nail glue. By taking proactive measures, you can help reduce the chances of experiencing negative side effects and maintain the health and well-being of your nails.
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Gel nails can cause allergic contact dermatitis
While gel manicures are popular for their durability and appearance, they can have several negative side effects. One of the most concerning issues is the risk of developing allergic contact dermatitis. This condition can develop from an allergy to the chemicals used in gel nail products, particularly acrylates.
Allergic contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that occurs when the body's immune system reacts to a substance that comes into contact with the skin. In the case of gel nails, this substance is typically an acrylate monomer, such as 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate or 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate. These chemicals are commonly found in long-lasting nail polishes and can trigger an allergic reaction in some individuals.
The symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis can include redness, swelling, itching, and blistering of the skin. In some cases, the reaction may be severe and require medical attention. It is important to note that this condition can develop even if you have used gel nail products without any problems in the past. The allergy may develop suddenly and with repeated exposure, the reactions may become more severe.
To reduce the risk of developing allergic contact dermatitis from gel nails, it is recommended to perform a patch test before using any gel nail products. This involves applying a small amount of the product to a discrete area of skin, such as the inner elbow, and waiting 48 hours to see if any reaction occurs. If you experience any signs of irritation or discomfort, discontinue use immediately and consult a dermatologist.
Additionally, it is important to choose gel nail products that are formulated without common allergens and to ensure proper ventilation during the application and removal process. If you have any concerns about the safety of gel nail products, it is always best to consult a medical professional or dermatologist for personalized advice.
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Nail damage can lead to fungal infections
While gel manicures can be beautiful and long-lasting, they can also have negative side effects. One of the most concerning issues is the risk of nail damage, which can lead to fungal infections.
Nail damage from gel manicures can occur during the application or removal process. The use of curing lamps that emit UV light is a common factor in gel manicures, and this exposure to UV light can cause temporary nail damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Additionally, the removal process can be particularly harsh on nails, often requiring acetone and other chemicals to dissolve the polish. This can leave nails brittle, prone to peeling and cracking, and more susceptible to fungal infections.
Fungal infections can occur when the seal between the gel polish and the natural nail is broken, allowing moisture to build up and creating an ideal environment for fungus to grow. Improper positioning of artificial nails and the use of unsanitary tools by manicurists can further increase the risk of infection. Symptoms of a fungal nail infection may include nail discoloration (often green or yellow), pain around the nails, and redness of the skin surrounding the nail.
To prevent and treat fungal infections, it is recommended to have artificial nails removed by a professional and to wash the natural nails carefully with soap and warm water. Home remedies such as soaking the affected finger in a mixture of warm water and vinegar can also help prevent the growth of fungi. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medication or topical treatments.
To minimize the risk of nail damage and fungal infections, it is important to give your nails a break between gel manicures and to prioritize nail care. This includes moisturizing the nails and cuticles, being cautious of UV exposure, and ensuring proper hygiene practices at the nail salon.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nails can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking. The UV exposure from curing lamps can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging. The removal process can also damage the nails, causing stripes across the nail ends and changes to the capillaries underneath.
To protect your nails, dermatologists recommend keeping them bare for at least one to two weeks between manicures. This helps to strengthen, repair, and rehydrate the nails. It is also important to apply sunscreen to your hands before going under the UV lamp.
It is recommended to only soak your fingertips in acetone instead of your whole hands to protect the surrounding skin. Alternatively, you can use acetone-soaked cotton balls and wrap them with aluminum foil around your fingertips.
Gel nails can hide signs of potential existing health issues and cause nail glue burns. Leaving gel nails on for too long can create a conducive environment for onychomycosis, which is the growth of fungus.
