Gel nails have become extremely popular recently because they last so long, combined with the glossy finish. However, a very disturbing study has recently come into the fray, implying that it is actually the curing devices used for gel nails-nail gel dryers that pose a serious health risk and have been linked to a higher possibility of skin cancer. This blog will explore these findings, mechanisms by which nail gel dryers might contribute to cancer risk, and what consumers can do to protect themselves.
The Rise of Gel Manicures
But What Exactly Is a Gel Manicure?
A gel manicure is an application of a particular type of
gel-based polish, to be cured under UV or LED light. Manicures have become
quite popular because they last longer-that is, gel polish does not chip for up
to three weeks, thus becoming the choice of many.
The Allure of Gel Polish
Also, the gel manicure has an extended lifespan so it also
has a higher-gloss finish and boasts a very long list of colors. Unlike the
usual nail polish that would chip quite easily and need repeated touch-ups,
gel polish has been engineered to last longer even with daily wear and tear
which may complement busy lifestyles.
How Do Nail Gel Dryers Work?
Nail gel dryers, also referred to as UV or LED lamps,
function by the release of particular wavelengths of light, which initiate the photoinitiators in the gel polish. This leads to the curing of the gel as well as
attachment on the nail. However, these devices are key in delivering the finish
of the gel, and questions arise regarding their safety.
Research Findings Background of Study
Recent study by researchers from the dermatologists and
cancer experts have caused most alarming concerns with regard to the security
of nail gel dryers. The study mainly focused on the impact of UV radiation that
the devices produce and its possible connection with skin cancer.
Major Observations
Exposure to UV Radiation: As a nail gel dryer is something
that emits UV radiation-like tanning beds, exposure to UV radiation for many
years is well established as a risk factor in the pathogenesis of melanoma,
squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma-all types of skin cancer.
- DNA Damage: The scientists were able to check whether even a
very short period of exposure to the nail gel dryers would be able to cause DNA
damage in cells. Such alterations may cause mutations that will sooner or later
bring about cancer.
- Cumulative Effect: Repeated exposure to nail gel dryers has a cumulative effect, in which UV exposure increases the risk of skin cancer by as much as a thousandfold. This exposure can be so unnoticeable to most people that they don't even realize how long they have been exposed.
Mechanisms of Action
The ways through which UV radiation from the use of nail gel
dryers cause skin cancer include several essential processes:
- DNA damage. UV light can cause a direct damage of DNA within
the skin cells to disrupt normal cell activity. This may lead to loss of
control over the growth of cells, an aspect well characterized in cancer.
- Immune suppression: UV radiation might suppress the skin's
local immunological responses. This hampers the correction of DNA damage and
removal of broken cells within the body.
- Free Radical Formation: UV radiation forms free radicals. Free radicals are unstable, fragmental molecules that can continue cell structure damage, including DNA, proteins, and lipids.
Consumer Implications
Awareness of Threats
Though the conclusions of this study are alarming, consumers
need to appreciate the circumstances of gel manicures and nail gel dryers.
Essentially, both are safe to use, as long as precautions are in place. The
risks are still a key consideration for making necessary decisions.
Recommendations for Safe Use
- Consumers can reduce risk of possible skin cancer from nail
gel dryers by doing the following:
- Decrease exposure to gel manicures: Use gel alternate with
traditional nail polish on turns to minimize overall UV exposure.
- Apply sunscreen: On hands, prior to use of any nail gel
dryer, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF. It might be able to
protect the skin while curing through UV rays.
- Use Protective Gloves: You can wear UV-blocking gloves that
expose the skin to other parts of your body while exposing only the nail to the
lamp. This gives you extra protection from UV radiation.
- Use LED Lamps: If using nail gel dryers, use LED lamps.
These ones have lower amounts of UV radiation as compared to traditional UV
lamps. LED curing lights also tend to have shorter curing times.
- Regular Skin Exams Observe changes in your skin, like new moles appearing or changes in existing moles. Quick observations from a dermatologist will identify such issues.
Beauty Industry Response
Industry Awareness
True, only lately some surveys have come to light, for which
the beauty industry is beginning to take notice. Even manufactures of nail gel
dryers are being asked to study more to ensure the safety of their products and
even to incorporate design changes that minimize UV exposure.
Consumer Education
Education is the assurance of consumer safety. Beauty
parlors and nail technicians should inform the clients of the risks that one
becomes vulnerable to the moment they venture into seeking a gel manicure and
also, coach them on how best to use the dryers on their nails safely. This
should include counseling them on how they ought to apply sunscreen and
protective measures.
Recent Innovations in Nail Care
As fears increase in regard to the secondary risks, this
business might bring in much creativity that is untapped. New kinds of gel
polish that require minimal exposure to UV or alternative curing methods that
do not have the use of UV are being studied. This may significantly reduce
health hazards brought about by gel mani-curing.
Conclusion
Research that connects nail gel dryers to a higher risk for
skin cancer makes one take heed- it's that important for consumers and the
beauty industry. Indeed, gel manicures provide a long wear time, but their
longer aesthetic advantages mean one should really know the possible risks
involved with UV exposure.
This can be done through nail gel dryers' use limitation,
protection by sunscreen application, and opting for safer alternatives, while beautiful nails are assured protection through healthy skin. Taking all
this into consideration, we need to evolve with the ever-changing beauty
industrial scene and stay updated on trends, but sensibly allow ourselves to
take good care of our well-being at every point of the beauty practice.
In essence, the study findings about nail gel dryers suggest
a call to raise public awareness in the beauty industry. The consumer should be
made aware of how to make healthy decisions to protect their own health when
indulging in gel manicures. As long as the science goes on, consumers and
professionals in the beauty industry must remain vigilant over such practices
or innovations that bring safety to good health without impairing beauty.
Please book an appointment with the Best Dermatologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.
