While looking at these beautiful summer to fall transition nails, let's dive into some useful information about them.
Acrylic nails have long been celebrated for their ability to deliver flawless, durable, and perfectly polished nails. They offer a quick fix for anyone looking to achieve the appearance of strength and beauty. However, beneath this illusion lies a range of hidden health risks that can affect not only your nails but also your overall well-being.
The Risks of Acrylic Nails
While acrylic nails create the impression of strength, the chemicals involved in their application can thin and weaken your natural nails over time. This isn't just about aesthetics; the substances used to adhere and remove acrylic nails can cause severe skin irritation and, in many cases, lasting damage.
Acrylates, the chemicals found in most acrylic nail products, have been proven to trigger allergic reactions and conditions such as allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) and distant dermatitis. In some cases, individuals have developed more serious conditions like psoriasis after frequent exposure to acrylic nail products, as shown in a case study by Piraccini et al.
Additionally, many nail artists use UV lamps to cure acrylic and gel nails. These lamps, while effective in setting the nails, emit UV-A radiation—a known carcinogen. Repeated exposure to this radiation has been linked to skin cancers like squamous cell carcinoma. Though studies suggest that the overall risk from UV lamps is relatively low, the Skin Cancer Foundation still recommends limiting their use. For those who choose to use UV-cured polishes, the foundation advises applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen or wearing nitrile gloves to minimize UV exposure.
Health Concerns Beyond Aesthetics
Acrylic nails aren't just harmful to your nails and skin—they can lead to broader health issues. Case studies have shown that prolonged exposure to acrylics can cause “worn-down nail syndrome,” which results in thin, fragile nails that are more susceptible to damage. Additionally, wearing acrylic nails for extended periods can increase the likelihood of hand eczema, as well as onycholysis, a condition in which the nails detach from the nail bed.
In a 2020 case study, a woman presented with severe nail damage and pain after using acrylic nails. She suffered from onychodystrophy—an abnormal growth and structure of the nails—and experienced a range of symptoms, including cracked nails, redness, and thickened skin around the affected area. Such conditions are not uncommon for long-term acrylic nail users and can be difficult to diagnose and treat.
UV Lamps and Pterygium Inversum Unguis
A lesser-known complication associated with UV-cured polishes is pterygium inversum unguis (PIU), a painful condition in which the skin under the nail (hyponychium) adheres to the nail plate. This condition, documented in a case series by Cervantes et al., can cause significant discomfort, particularly during nail trimming or filing. While PIU often resolves once individuals switch to regular nail polish, it underscores the potential harm caused by the prolonged use of acrylic and gel nail products.
Acrylic Nails and Carcinogenesis
One of the most concerning health risks associated with acrylic nails is their potential link to skin cancer. A study by MacFarlane and Alonso found that the UV-A radiation emitted by nail lamps can cause as much damage as being exposed to an additional 1.5 to 2.7 minutes of sunlight each day over two weeks. Although this may seem insignificant, prolonged exposure over several years can have dangerous consequences, including an increased risk of skin cancer. In fact, two cases of squamous cell carcinoma were reported in women who regularly used UV lamps for their nails, despite having no personal or family history of skin cancer.
The Hidden Dangers of At-Home Gel Polish Kits
The rise of at-home gel polish kits has only added to the growing concerns around nail cosmetics. These kits, often unregulated and used without proper training, expose users to harmful chemicals for extended periods, increasing the risk of developing painful, pruritic periungual eczematous dermatitis and other side effects like weak or brittle nails.
Gel polishes applied at home also make it difficult to detect early signs of irritation or infection, as the colored polish covers any changes in the nail bed. This can delay the diagnosis of more severe conditions, such as malignant melanoma, as seen in a case reported by Goldman and Rich, where a patient’s nail polish concealed a pigmented streak that later turned out to be melanoma.
Acrylic Nails and the Spread of Bacteria
Artificial nails, especially acrylics, are also known to trap bacteria more easily than natural nails, increasing the likelihood of infection. Picking at or removing acrylic nails improperly can cause additional damage to the nail plate, leading to flaking, pitting, and increased susceptibility to bacterial or fungal infections.
Protecting Your Health: The Role of a Naturopath
Given the wide range of potential health risks associated with acrylic and gel nails, it’s crucial to approach nail cosmetics with caution. While these products can enhance your appearance, they can also lead to long-term damage if not used responsibly. One of the most effective ways to protect your health is by regularly consulting with a naturopath, a professional like myself that can guide you in making safer choices and offer preventive care before issues arise.
A naturopath can help you rejuvenate your nails and address any underlying conditions before they become problematic. They can also provide holistic alternatives to conventional nail treatments, allowing you to maintain beautiful nails without compromising your overall well-being.
Choose Beauty Wisely
While acrylic nails may be fashionable, they come with a price—one that could cost you your health. By understanding the potential risks and working with a naturopath, you can make informed choices that prioritize both your beauty and your well-being. Remember, your health is always worth more than a perfect manicure.
Nail cosmetics, while enhancing beauty, can lead to long-term damage if not used with care. Stay informed, opt for safer alternatives, and seek professional guidance to keep your nails—and your health—strong and vibrant.
References
Piraccini BM, Alessandrini A, Magnano M. , Psoriasiform nail lesions in a patient with artificial
nails. G Ital Dermatol Venereol. 2015;150(6): 761–763.
Psoriasiform Onychodystrophy Induced by Photobonded Acrylic Nails by CHRIS G. ADIGUN, MD, and HANNAH SHOAF, MS , Dr. Adigun is with the Dermatology & Laser Center of Chapel Hill in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Ms. Shoaf is with the Center on Science & Technology Policy at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020;13(12):18–20.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/are-acrylics-bad-for-your-nails
Review “Nail health in women” Jessica K. Reinecke a , Molly A. Hinshaw, MD, FAAD b,⇑
a University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States, b Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States, Accepted 29 January 2020, International Journal of Women’s Dermatology 6 (2020) 73–79
