19 Oct Gel Manicures Are Trendy Now. Should You Join The Craze?
Gel manicures can last with their radiant color for at least two to three weeks, while regular manicures usually last for a week, especially if you use your hands a lot for your daily activities.
Some might opt for gel manicures due to their longevity. Others will demand them due to their varying styles and colors. Looking good can make you feel good, but can it outweigh the health consequences?
Gel Manicures and Your Health
The most concerning thing about gel manicures is their use of UV light to dry gel polish.
Exposure to UVA and UVB light can play a role in skin cancer and melanoma. The frequency of gel manicures should also be considered.
A 2014 study noted that the level of UVA exposure done during gel manicures is not high enough to increase the risk of skin cancer significantly.
To protect your hands during gel manicures, here is what you can do:
- Apply waterproof sunscreen on your hands before a manicure. It should be at least SPF 30.
- Only soak your fingertips in acetone
- Consider the traditional nail polish occasionally to minimize your gel manicures and exposure to UV lights.
One 2020 study also noted there is little to no carcinogenic risk associated with UV gel manicures. However, experts still recommend applying broad-spectrum sunscreen before gel manicures.
Aside from the low risk of skin cancer, gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling, cracking, and premature aging with repeated use.
Tips for Healthy Nails
You can always make lifestyle changes for healthier nails. When healthy diet and moisturizing do not work, you can take biotin supplements for stronger nails. Biotin is also found in sardines, cooked eggs, and legumes,
Give your nails a break from any procedures as constant nail polish use can weaken the nail. You can also cut it short to avoid breaking and chipping.
SOURCE:
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-strengthen-nails#dont-use-nails-as-a-tool
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/1862050
https://www.health.harvard.edu/cancer/do-gel-manicures-increase-cancer-risk
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/nail-care-secrets/basics/pedicures/gel-manicures
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/are-gel-nails-bad-for-you#how-often