Gel Manicures and Skin Safety
It has happened to us all. We paint our nails at home, or get traditional polish done at a salon, just have have the polish seemingly chip within minutes. For this reason, gel manicures are a popular nail beauty trend we’ve see time and time again. Simply put, gel manicures offer unmatched convenience while also reducing the risk of chips and other common flaws that come with traditional nail polish. However, are you increasing your risk of skin cancer at the same time? We asked skin care experts to weigh in on Gel Manicures and Skin Safety.
Gel Manicures and Sun Safety
What is a Gel Manicure?
A gel manicure is a popular service offered at nail salons utilizing gel-based polish and a UV or LED light to lock the polish onto your nail. Typically speaking, the results of a gel manicure far outlast the results of traditional polish, making it a popular service for effortless nails for weeks.
Why Are People Concerned?
Several studies have come out about gel manicures and UV exposure from the lamps. According to Healthline, a study in the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology found that “while the UV exposure from the lamps used in gel manicures is low, in less than 10 minutes, a person’s hands receive an energy dose equivalent to the day-long recommended limit for outdoor workers.”
An additional study published by JAMA Dermatology concluded that “the amount of energy exposure, even after numerous gel manicures, poses a low risk of skin cancer.” However, just as with all things, it’s important to enjoy everything in moderation.
In addition, there are other risks associated with repeated UV exposure, like premature aging of skin on the hands. So, what do the experts recommend to keep your nails and hands healthy?
What Do The Experts Say?
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) outlines the following tips to keep your nails healthy before, during and after gel manicures:
“Be proactive with your manicurist. Ask if tools are sterilized, and look around to make sure he or she is cleaning and disinfecting tools after every client. In addition, never let your manicurist push or cut your cuticle, as this could lead to inflammation and infection.
Consider traditional nail polish instead of gel polish. This is especially important if you experience recurring nail problems or are allergic to acetone, as acetone is required to remove gel polish.
Wear sunscreen. Before getting a gel manicure, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands to prevent skin cancer and premature skin aging. This will help protect your skin from the ultraviolet radiation used to seal gel nail polish to the nail. Another option is to put on dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips snipped off before your nail polish is applied.
Don’t pick gel nail polish. When the color begins to come off, don’t pick at the polish or use other nails or tools to remove it. Instead, make an appointment with your manicurist to have the polish removed.”
By following the above tips outlined by the AAD, you can enjoy an occasional gel manicure while also making your health a top priority. If you have any concerns at all, seek out the advice of a dermatology professional.
UPDATE 1/2/2023: A new study published on January 17, 2023 in Nature Communications, expresses concern from findings that radiation emitted by UV-nail polish dryers can damage DNA and cause mutations in human cells.