People who continually get gel manicures could be at risk for skin cancer.
The American Academy of Dermatology warns the ultraviolet light used to seal the polish to the nail can lead to skin cancer on the hand.
Lindsey Johnson, a physician assistant at Gainesville Dermatology Aesthetic Center, wrote in an email that although there isn’t any solid evidence on how much ultraviolet damage can affect the hands, she recommends people protect themselves from the lights.
Johnson, who said she receives gel manicures occasionally, uses anti-ultraviolet gloves made without fingertips specifically for gel manicures. When she doesn’t have the gloves, she applies sunscreen to her hands.
“I often go to a salon that uses the safer LED light,” she said.
With frequent use, the gel polish can also cause nail problems such as nail thinning, according to an American Academy of Dermatology news release.
The release said Dr. Chris Adigun, an assistant professor of dermatology at New York University’s School of Medicine, explained it is unknown whether gel manicures weaken nails because of the chemicals in the polish used or the acetone used to remove the polish.
Acetone, which breaks down the polish, dries the nails and irritates the skin around, according to the release.
“In general, any manicure left in place for an extended period of time is not a good idea because you are not seeing what is going on underneath the nail polish,” she said. “As is the case with most things, moderation is the key when it comes to gel manicures.”
But the risks don’t concern Brantanique Williams. The 21-year-old UF telecommunication junior said she’s been getting manicures since she was 18 and won’t stop now.
“Honestly, you hear about things giving you cancer all the time,” she said. “I’m still going to go every two weeks to get my gel nails done.”
