Sometimes a girl just needs a little pick-me-up, and there’s nothing like a fresh set of nails to do the trick. But whether you’re opting for a classic, French-tip, or acrylic manicure, the question still remains: Are gel manicures really safe for your nails?
For the longest time, many in the beauty industry and among nail aficionados have been asking the same question. The safety of gel manicures is still a point of contention, with advocates of either side citing evidence and stories to back up their claims.
In this article, we’ll be taking a deeper dive into the pros and cons of gel manicures so you can make an informed decision that’s right for you.
What Is a Gel Manicure?
A gel manicure is a type of professional nail treatment that uses a special type of “gel” polish.
The gel polishes are usually two-step systems which require the application of a basecoat and topcoat. The basecoat is first applied and then cured under an LED or UV light. Next, the desired color is applied, and cured under the same UV/LED light. Once cured, the manicure is complete when the topcoat is applied and also cured.
The gel polish is then removed with a special remover and wrapped in tin foil for about 15 minutes to allow the remover to dissolve the gel nails.
The Benefits of Gel Manicures
There’s no denying the fact that gel manicures have their benefits. They are a great choice for those who are looking for a long-lasting and chip-resistant finish.
Gel manicures typically last two to three weeks, while regular polish might chip or wear off within days. Plus, many gel manicures include the use of non-toxic and vegan ingredients which are a breath of fresh air for the planet.
Furthermore, for those who are particularly rough on their cuticles, many of the ingredients in the gel polish formulation help to protect the integrity of the natural nail and its surrounding skin.
The Drawbacks of Gel Manicures
In spite of the many benefits offered by gel manicures, there are still drawbacks to consider.
Removing the polish can be time consuming and, due to the use of acids and harsher ingredients, can be damaging to the natural nail and skin.
Additionally, the UV/LED lights used to cure the gel polish may emit UVA/UVB rays and infrared radiation, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
Lastly, gel manicures can create a dependency where the nails feel weaker when the polish is removed. This often leads to the user covering up peeling and weakened nails with another set of gel nails, creating a vicious cycle that can be hard to break.
Finding a Safe Gel Manicure
If you are still interested in getting a gel manicure, there are a few steps that should be taken in order to ensure your safety and the safety of your nails.
First and foremost, make sure you visit a professional nail salon. DIY gel manicures may seem tempting, however, there is a high risk that you may use too high a concentration of the remover which can be corrosive.
Next, always make sure that the lights used to cure the polish are of a safe, professional standard. Ask your technician if the salon is using exposure meter to measure exposure to UV light, which is the industry standard.
Finally, invest in good quality nail care and protection products. This includes strengthening nail oils, nail buffing blocks and repair creams.
Quick Tips for At-Home Maintenance
Taking care of your nails at home doesn’t require a lot of effort. Here’s a few tips you can use every day to ensure your nails stay happy and healthy:
• Use a good quality hand cream and massage it into your cuticles every night.
• Buff your nails once or twice a week.
• Wear gloves while working with chemicals or when dealing with water.
• Limit acetone-based remover use.
• Always undertake a patch test before applying new polishes.
• Apply a strengthening basecoat before applying any polish.
• Make sure your nails get some fresh air every day.
While there is still controversy about the safety of gel manicures, the important thing is to make sure your salon is using safe products and techniques. Being aware of the potential risks, and taking the necessary steps to make sure your manicures are safe is essential.
So, at the end of the day, your gel manicure habit is really safe as long as you take the necessary precautions. So go ahead – reclaim those nails and make them shine!
