Navigating the Side-effects of Gel Nail Polish

Rise to Popularity

Gel nail polish has become popular through the internet and social media platforms such as TikTok for its durability and easy application. It is relatively new to the market so there is not much research done on the side effects. Online, users have easy access to do it yourself (DIY) gel nail polish kits. However, the improper application of these products, particularly when DIY-ing, can lead to severe allergic reactions due to the exposure of uncured chemicals. This could lead to allergic contact dermatitis and ultraviolet-induced lesions. While it may appear to be a faster, cheaper, and easier manicure method than other options, it is important to know the health implications of using gel nail products and how user informed choices can protect nail health and prevent adverse effects.

UV/LED Lamps

Gel nail polish is a type of nail polish that is made up of oligomers and ultraviolet (UV) catalysts. After application of the polish, it is hardened or cured under a UV or LED lamp for a period around 2 minutes or 30 seconds depending on the lamp and the strength of energy emitted. The lamp causes oligomers in the polish to change their structure, hence curing the liquid and leading to polymerization (Putek 202). While this may seem harmless, in reality, cumulative exposure to UV light may cause ocular toxicity (cataracts, macular degeneration) and UV lamps can emit 4.2 times more energy than the sun (Litaiem 2022).

Nail Lesions 

The usage of gel nail polish is also associated with various nail lesions. These include pterygium inversum unguis (a triangular wedge of tissue), pseudoleukonychia (white spots on the nail surface), lamellar splitting, brittle nails, thinning of the nail plate, yellow discoloration, pincer nail deformity, and ridged nails (Litaiem 2022). Such damage can result from both the application and removal processes, which often involve mechanical peeling, soaking in acetone, or exposure to other harsh chemicals. During the removal process, oftentimes the nail is often wrapped in aluminum soaked with acetone and then a cuticle pusher and nail buffer are used to remove the remaining gel. Hence, exposing the nails to harsh chemicals.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Additionally, gel nail polish may cause allergic contact dermatitis due to its chemical components, particularly methacrylates like 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA) and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) (Litaiem 2022). These acrylic monomers, responsible for many acrylate-induced allergic reactions, are polymerized under UV or LED lamps during curing. However, incomplete polymerization, especially in DIY setups without professional-grade equipment, can leave methacrylates on the skin. As a result, increasing the risk of allergic reactions. Once allergic contact dermatitis develops, there is no cure, only avoidance of products containing the triggering compounds. Studies suggest that improper application techniques and removals, such as at-home gel manicures performed by non-professionals, may further increase the risk of side effects. 

Takeaways

Making sure one is informed about the potential risks of side-effects associated with gel nail polish, such as nail damage and allergic reactions, is critical to making safer and more conscious decisions. However, it is disheartening that despite these risks, many people feel compelled to prioritize beauty standards over their health and would continue to get gel manicures. This reflects how societal pressures and cultural norms often place appearance above well-being, perpetuating choices that may lead to long-term harm. Greater awareness and education are important to challenge these norms.

Sources Cited

Litaiem, N., Baklouti, M., & Zeglaoui, F. (2022). Side effects of gel nail polish: A systematic review. Clinics in Dermatology, 40(6), 706–715. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clindermatol.2022.07.008

Putek, J., Przybyła, T., Szepietowski, J. C., Baran, W., & Batycka-Baran, A. (2020). Side-effects associated with gel nail polish: A self-questionnaire study of 2,118 respondents. Acta Dermato-Venereologica, 100(18), 5931. https://doi.org/10.2340/00015555-3684