Painting your nails is a beloved form of self-expression, but with a vast array of options from classic French tips to bold acrylics, a question arises: Can nail treatments harm your health? While generally safe, the answer is nuanced, with traditional nail polish, gel nails, and acrylics each presenting their own potential risks.
Dr. Chris Adigun, a dermatologist at the Dermatology & Laser Center of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, emphasizes the safety of traditional nail polish, gel nails, and acrylics. However, she highlights the potential for irritation and allergic reactions from certain chemicals found in traditional nail polish. To mitigate these risks, Dr. Adigun recommends using ‘three-free’ nail polish, which lacks toluene, formaldehyde, and formaldehyde releasers – chemicals commonly associated with irritation.
Although formaldehyde acts as an antimicrobial, preservative, and nail hardener, and toluene keeps nail polish liquid in the bottle, its presence in nail polish has raised concerns. While the National Cancer Institute classifies formaldehyde as a carcinogen, studies linking it to cancer have primarily focused on individuals exposed to high concentrations, such as industrial workers and embalmers.
Research on nail technicians exposed to these chemicals yields mixed results. The extent to which formaldehyde in nail polish poses a cancer risk through regular use remains unclear, with limited research on the effects of frequent nail painting.
Dr. Adigun advocates for acetone-free nail polish remover, especially for those with brittle nails. Acetone, a common solvent in removers, can strip the nail of lipids, crucial for nail strength, leading to fragility.
Regarding gel nail polish, while generally safe, concerns exist regarding the UV light used to harden the polish. This type of radiation, similar to the sun’s harmful rays, could potentially increase skin cancer risk, although research on this specific aspect is limited. The delay between exposure and cancer development, often spanning 20 to 30 years, means long-term effects of UV exposure from gel manicures are still being studied.
Beyond skin cancer, UV light exposure can also contribute to skin discoloration, accelerated aging of the nails, and the surrounding skin. The removal process for gel nails, involving either filing or acetone soaking, can further irritate and weaken nails.
Both gel nail polish and acrylics may contain methacrylate monomers, which can trigger irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. One common monomer, methyl methacrylate monomer, has been linked to these issues.
Acrylics raise concerns about chronic inflammation and thinning of the skin underneath the nail, which can lead to permanent changes in the nail structure. While limited data exists, it’s recommended to avoid wearing acrylics for more than three consecutive months.
Dr. Adigun advises taking a break from acrylics equal to the amount of time they were worn and waiting two to four weeks between gel manicures, depending on the condition of your nails.
Ultimately, the decision regarding nail treatments rests with the individual. By understanding the potential risks and following expert advice, you can enjoy your chosen nail style while prioritizing your health.
If you have specific concerns or questions about your nail health, consulting a dermatologist is always recommended.
