Should You Skip Gel Manicures for Copying not publishing
Gel manicures have become popular because they provide long-lasting, chip-resistant nail color. But some research suggests that the process may increase the risk of skin cancer.
We connected with dermatologist Alexis Young, M.D. to unpack what this new research means, and to help you determine if you’re better off skipping the gel manicure.
Q: What does this new study tell us about the risk of skin cancer during manicures?
Dr. Young: Up until now there have not been any actual scientific studies looking at the effects of UV radiation from manicure lamps on mammal and human skin cells on a cellular level. Most of the studies have just measured the amount of UVA radiation emitted by these lamps.
There have been a handful of reports published suggesting a link between skin cancers and pre-cancerous sun spots on the hands related to the use of UV nail lamps. This is the first study to actually expose mouse and human skin cells to the UVA radiation from nail lamps and evaluate for the presence of cell and DNA damage.
Q: Is the jury in or still out on this issue?
Dr. Young: Yes and no. I think the evidence is growing that this UV exposure could cause cumulative damaging effects but until we actually have long term studies performed on humans, we cannot definitely say that there is a link.
Intuitively it makes sense that the UV from these lamps should be minimized for a variety of reasons primarily because of the risk of skin cancer but also for other reasons (see below).
Q: Have you ever diagnosed skin cancer on the hand that is believed to be related to gel manicures/UV light?
Dr. Young: Not that I know of…yet. Since gel manicures only came into fashion over the past decade and skin cancers develop from repeated exposure to UV radiation over a long period of time, it could take a number of years to see the cumulative effect on skin cancer risk/incidence of skin cancers on the hands.
I have definitely diagnosed skin cancers on the hands and fingers, but I am not completely certain of a direct link with UV lamps.
Q: Are there other risks of gel manicures for nails?
Dr. Young: Gel manicures are performed by applying a plastic resin composed of acrylates onto the nail which is then cured (i.e. polymerized) under a light source (either ultraviolet-A (UVA) or light-emitting diode (LED). Acrylates are a common cause of allergic contact dermatitis. Allergy to acrylates could present as an eyelid, facial or fingertip dermatitis, pain and numbness of the fingers, nail weakening and disfigurement of the nail. If someone becomes sensitized or allergic to acrylates in gel nail polish, they could then become allergic to acrylates found in other medical and non-medical exposures such as the glue used to place false eyelashes, the resins used to hold diabetic glucose sensors in place, Super glue, dental work and other orthopedic exposures.
Gel nail polish is also removed by soaking the nails in harsh chemicals and/or physically ripping the polish from the nails. All of this severely weakens the nail leading to disfigurement, breakage, ridges, and possibly infection.
Another issue with UV lamps for gel manicures is that UVA radiation not only can cause skin cancer but is also responsible for causing wrinkles. Repeated exposure could age the skin of the hands prematurely. UVA radiation is what is used in tanning beds leading to an exponential risk of both skin cancer and aging.
Q: What advice would you give patients regarding nail art and gel manicures?
Dr. Young: Here are the five main things I tell my patients:
- A regular manicure with polish that doesn’t have to be cured under a light source is the least damaging to the skin and nails.
- If you want to get gel manicures, you should find a salon that uses LED light to prepare the polish, not UV light.
- Avoid at home gel manicure kits, which usually come with a light source. These could be overused and used incorrectly.
- If UV cannot be avoided in the salon, then either wear gloves with the fingertips cut off and/or apply a broad spectrum sunscreen to the hands prior to placing the hands under the light source.
- If you start to develop a rash or any other skin symptoms when you get a manicure, you should avoid it altogether.
Next Steps & Resources:
- Meet our source: Alexis Young, M.D.
- To make an appointment with Dr. Young, or a dermatologist near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.