Gel nails have become very popular among many people, especially women. Unlike regular nail polish, these last for weeks without any damage. And most of the time, they don't have a strong smell. So because of this convenience, many people are used to going to the salon regularly and getting gel nails. But have you ever thought that going to the salon regularly like this can put your skin at risk, especially skin cancer ? Let's talk about this today.
What are these gel nails?
Simply put, it's a special mixture made by combining a liquid chemical (monomer) and a powder-like chemical (polymer). In fact, it's very similar to the mixture used to apply artificial nails, but it's pre-mixed and bottled. At the salon, it's applied to your nails like regular nail polish.
But the most important difference is in the next step. This gel is not dried by simply leaving it in the air as usual. It is cured using a special lamp or light box that emits UV light. When you place your hands under the light, the gel dries, hardens, and becomes shiny.
Is the problem with UV rays?
Yes, the main risk here is not the gel nail polish itself, but the ultraviolet (UV) light used to cure it. This is the same type of light that is emitted by sunlight and tanning beds. These UV rays can damage our skin cells, and over time, exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer.
There are two main types of UV rays: UVA and UVB. In salons, we are most exposed to the type called UVA.
Remember, just touching this UV light once or twice won't cause cancer. However, if you're exposed to it frequently, like once or twice a month, for years, the risk can gradually increase.
The results of the research on this subject are somewhat contradictory. In one study, two women were reported to have developed skin cancer. Neither they nor their family members had ever had skin cancer before. But they had been using UV lamps regularly. Although doctors cannot say for sure that UV lamps caused the cancer, they believe that it may have been a major risk factor.
Another study found that it would take more than 13,000 salon visits to get the same amount of UV light as a medical treatment, UV phototherapy. However, a new study has shown that skin damage can begin with much less, between 8 and 208 salon visits . So more research is needed on this. But based on the information we have now, it’s clear that there is a risk.
So how do we protect ourselves from this risk?
You don't have to stop wearing gel nail polish completely. But you can do a few small things to significantly reduce your exposure to these UV rays. Let's take a look at what they are.
1. Use sunscreen.
This is the easiest and most important thing. About 30 minutes before going to the salon, apply sunscreen generously to your hands. Consider these things when choosing:
- It should be labeled broad-spectrum , meaning it provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
- The SPF value should be 30 or higher .
- It would be better if it contained a physical protector like zinc oxide .
This habit not only protects your skin from UV rays, but it can also reduce early aging and wrinkles.
2. Wear special gloves
Another good way is to wear dark gloves that protect against UV rays. You can use gloves with the fingertips snipped off so that you can apply nail polish. Put these gloves on before applying nail polish and putting your hands under the light. This will expose only your nails and protect the rest of your hands.
3. Choose an LED light
Many salons are now using LED lamps instead of traditional UV lamps. It will be very useful for you to know the difference between the two.
| Characteristic | Traditional UV lamp | LED lamp |
|---|---|---|
| UV radiation level | Emits more UV rays. | Emits significantly less UV rays . |
| Drying time | It takes longer (about 2-3 minutes). | Dries very quickly (about 30-60 seconds). |
| Skin exposure | The longer the time, the more time the skin is exposed. | Due to the reduced time, skin exposure is significantly reduced . |
So, the next time you go to the salon, ask if they use LED light . If you can choose one that has LED light, it's much safer for your skin.
4. Limit to special occasions only
Instead of applying gel nail polish every month or every two weeks, limit it to special occasions like weddings or parties. This will reduce your exposure to UV rays and give your nails a "break." Since the process of removing gel polish can also cause some damage to your nails, this break will help them repair themselves.
If you notice any unusual spots, discoloration, or sores on your skin, do not ignore them and see your doctor immediately for advice.
Take-Home Message
- The main risk with gel nail polish is not the polish itself, but the UV lamps used to cure it.
- Frequent exposure of hands to UV lamps may increase the risk of skin cancer in the long term.
- There's no need to panic. Simple measures like applying sunscreen before going to the salon, choosing an LED light , and wearing special gloves can greatly reduce this risk.
- By not applying gel nail polish all the time, but limiting it to special occasions, you can give your skin and nails a break .
- If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, be sure to see a doctor .
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