Gel and acrylic nail polish manicures may seem like a harmless product, but they are now under investigation.
There are rising numbers of people reporting adverse reactions and allergies after using them.
Here’s what you need to know.
Are gel nail products dangerous?
Most gel polish manicures are safe to use.
However, the British Association of Dermatologists is warning that methacrylate chemicals, found in gel and acrylic nails, can cause allergic reactions in some people, according to BBC News.
The Government is now investigating the rising numbers of people claiming to experience life-changing allergies in response to some gel nail products.
According to dermatologists, they are seeing patients suffering allergic reactions to acrylic and gel nails “most weeks” — with numerous complaints on social media groups as well.
UV nail gel has to be “cured”, or dried under a heat lamp, but each nail gel needs a different heat setting and wavelength.
If a lamp is not at least 36 watts or the correct wavelength, the acrylates — a group of chemicals used to bond the gel — do not dry properly.
They can then penetrate the nailbed and skin around the nails, leading to irritation and allergies.
What reactions have been reported from gel nail products?
Reports have included nails loosening or falling off, skin rashes, or even, in some instances, breathing difficulties.
The problem is that, once a person is sensitised, the body will reject anything containing acrylates so that, in severe cases, the allergies can leave some people unable to have medical treatments, such as white dental fillings, joint replacement surgery, or diabetes medications.
Nail technicians believe the reactions some people are experiencing after using these products are concerning.
What should I do if I experience a reaction?
On Friday (April 14), the Government’s Office for Product Safety and Standards confirmed it was investigating.
It said the first point of contact for anyone developing an allergy after using a polish is their local trading standards department.
In a statement it said: “All cosmetics made available in the UK must comply with strict safety laws. This includes a list of ingredients to enable consumers with allergies to identify products that may be unsuitable for them.”
People are being advised to use regular nail polishes instead, cut down on gel nail usage, and stop using DIY home kits to treat their nails.
If you do want to carry on using acrylate nail products, it’s recommended to have them applied professionally.
