Sophia Delgado
Gel nail polish is a popular choice for those seeking a long-lasting, chip-resistant manicure. However, concerns have been raised about its potential negative impact on nail health. While some argue that gel polish provides protection and strength to natural nails, others claim that it can lead to temporary and long-term nail damage. The preparation, application, and removal processes are key factors in determining the effect of gel polish on nails. Over-buffing, aggressive removal methods, and incorrect use of tools can result in weakened, brittle, and damaged nails. Additionally, the chemicals and curing process of gel polish have been linked to allergic reactions and increased UV exposure, respectively. Proper application, removal, and moderation are crucial to minimising potential harm.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Removal process | Removing gel nail polish requires a lot of effort and time, usually involving acetone. |
| UV exposure | The curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer. |
| Nail damage | Gel nail polish can cause temporary nail damage, such as cracking, peeling, and weakening of the nail plate. It can also lead to dry and brittle nails. |
| Allergic reactions | Gel polish contains acrylate and methacrylate, which can cause allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis and urticaria. |
| Nail preparation | Roughing up the nail with files before application can damage the nail. |
| Nail health | Gel manicures can make nails thin and brittle, and the frequent use of acetone can dry out nails and cuticles. |
| Nail protection | Gel polish can protect natural nails from environmental elements. |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nail polish removal can damage nails
The removal process typically involves soaking nails in acetone, which can be time-consuming and requires effort and commitment. Some people may opt for a quicker method, such as peeling off the gel polish, which is considered the most damaging option. To avoid nail damage, it is crucial to avoid forcefully scraping or picking at the gel polish during removal and to allow it to release naturally. Additionally, it is important to avoid aggressive filing, especially if the wrong type of file is used, as this can also harm the natural nail.
To mitigate the potential damage caused by gel nail polish removal, it is advisable to have the polish removed by a professional manicurist. This ensures that the process is carried out correctly and reduces the risk of nail damage. When removing gel nail polish at home, it is recommended to only soak the fingertips in acetone, protecting the surrounding skin. Another option is to use cotton balls soaked in acetone and wrapped in small pieces of aluminium foil around the fingertips, ensuring that only the nails come into direct contact with the acetone.
Furthermore, it is important to be proactive and ask your manicurist about tool sterilisation and disinfection practices. It is also crucial to avoid letting the manicurist push or cut your cuticles, as this can lead to inflammation and infection. Considering traditional nail polish instead of gel polish is advisable, especially for those with recurring nail problems or allergies to acetone, as acetone is necessary for gel polish removal.
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The curing process involves UV exposure
The curing process for gel nail polish involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to cancer. This exposure occurs regardless of the type of lamp used, including LED lamps. The hands are particularly vulnerable to UV exposure as they are rarely protected. To mitigate the risks associated with UV exposure during the curing process, it is recommended to apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to the hands before the gel manicure. Additionally, wearing dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips snipped off before the application of the nail polish can provide protection.
While the curing process involving UV exposure is a significant concern, it is important to note that the chemicals present in gel nail polish can also be detrimental. Gel polish contains acrylate and methacrylate, which are known to cause allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis and, less commonly, urticaria. The removal process can also lead to temporary nail damage, with cracking, peeling, white spots, grooves, and a weakened nail plate being commonly reported issues. These problems may take months to resolve as the damaged nail grows out. Therefore, it is crucial to be cautious during the removal process, and spacing out gel manicures can give nails time to recover.
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Gel manicures can cause skin cancer
Gel nail polish can cause temporary nail damage, but the cumulative UV exposure is worse. The curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to cancer. Tanning beds, which also use UVA light, are not risk-free, and similarly, there is no such thing as a risk-free nail lamp. LED lamps are sometimes marketed as a safer option, but they still emit UV radiation.
The UV (ultraviolet) lamps used to dry gel nail polish produce artificial UV radiation, similar to that of tanning beds or the natural UV radiation produced by the sun. UV light can damage cells and increase the risk of skin cancers such as squamous cell and basal cell cancer.
There is limited research on whether UV radiation from nail lamps increases the incidence of skin cancer on the hands and nails of young adults. The current literature on the risk of UV nail lamps causing skin cancer is limited and controversial. However, a study by Stern et al. found that the nail plate blocks UVB and allows only 0.5% to 2.5% of UVA to penetrate. Another study by Shipp et al. calculated the threshold for DNA damage from 17 different nail lamps.
Despite the controversy, dermatologists recommend taking precautions to protect your skin from the UV radiation used in gel manicures. This includes wearing sunscreen on your hands before your manicure and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants to cover your hands during the manicure. You can also wear fingerless gloves to protect your hands from the UV lamp.
In addition to the risk of skin cancer, gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking. Gel polish contains acrylate and methacrylate, which can cause allergic reactions such as rashes and hives. Removing gel polish can also temporarily damage your nails, with cracking and peeling being the most common issues. To minimise this damage, it is recommended to only soak your fingertips in acetone or use cotton balls soaked in acetone wrapped in aluminium foil to remove the polish.
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Gel nail polish contains harmful chemicals
While gel nail polish has its advantages, such as quick-drying, long-lasting, and chip-resistant formulas, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with its use. One of the primary concerns regarding gel nail polish is the presence of harmful chemicals that can negatively affect both your nails and your overall health.
Gel nail polish contains chemicals like acrylate and methacrylate, which are known allergens that can cause contact dermatitis, resulting in rashes and, less commonly, hives. These chemicals can also lead to nail discolouration, such as white spots and grooves, and can weaken the nail plate, making your nails more susceptible to cracking and peeling. As a result, your nails may become dry and brittle, especially if you do not allow adequate time for recovery between manicures.
The removal process of gel nail polish can be particularly damaging to your nails if not done carefully. It requires a significant amount of effort and time, often involving soaking your nails in acetone. Improper removal methods, such as forcefully scraping, aggressive filing, or peeling off the gel polish, can lead to temporary nail damage, including thinning and weakening of the nail bed. Therefore, it is crucial to be gentle and patient during the removal process to minimise harm to your nails.
Additionally, the curing process of gel nail polish under a lamp has been linked to an elevated risk of skin cancer. This is due to the exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to cancer. While LED lamps are sometimes touted as a safer alternative, it is important to remember that they still emit UV radiation, posing similar risks. To mitigate this risk, it is recommended to apply broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before your gel manicure.
In conclusion, while gel nail polish may provide desirable aesthetic results, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers associated with the chemicals it contains. To maintain nail health, it is advisable to space out gel manicures, allow time for nail recovery, and practice careful removal techniques. Consulting with dermatologists and nail experts can provide further insights into mitigating the risks associated with gel nail polish and maintaining overall nail health.
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The application process can be damaging
The application process for gel nail polish can be damaging to your nails. Firstly, the curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to cancer. This is true regardless of the type of lamp used, as even LED lamps emit UV radiation.
Secondly, gel nail polish contains chemicals such as acrylate and methacrylate, which are known to cause allergic reactions like contact dermatitis and, less commonly, urticaria. The repeated use of gel nail polish without allowing time for your nails to recover can also leave them dry and brittle.
In addition, the removal process can be damaging if not done carefully. Gel polish removal typically involves soaking nails in acetone, which can be time-consuming and damaging if not done correctly. Improper removal can lead to temporary nail damage, including cracking, peeling, white spots, grooves, and an overall weakening of the nail plate. This damage can take months to resolve as the nail grows out.
To minimise damage during the application and removal process, it is important to be proactive with your manicurist. Ask if their tools are sterilised and ensure they are cleaning and disinfecting them after each client. Avoid forceful or aggressive filing, and do not allow your manicurist to push or cut your cuticles, as this can lead to inflammation and infection. Instead, consider using a hand file to gently remove as much of the gel as possible before using the acetone/cotton pad/clip removal method. You can also apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands before the gel manicure to protect your skin from UV radiation.
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Frequently asked questions
The damage from gel nail polish comes from the preparation and removal processes. The curing process also involves UV exposure, which can be harmful. In addition, gel nail polish contains many chemicals, such as acrylate and methacrylate, which can cause allergic reactions.
To reduce damage, it is recommended to go to a reputable nail salon or technician who follows manufacturer guidelines. You can also apply sunscreen to your hands before the curing process to protect your skin from UV radiation.
Some alternatives to gel nail polish include traditional nail polish, peel-off polish, gel-effect polish, non-toxic natural nail polish, dip powder nails, and press-on nails.
