Can UV Gel Nail Polish Cause Skin Damage?

Gel nail polish is a popular choice for manicures because it lasts longer and resists chipping. But there are concerns that the UV light used to set these products at nail salons could cause damage to skin.

This article will explore everything you need to know about gel nail polish, including the difference between UV and LED lamps, salon versus at-home application and popular brands.

What is a UV gel polish?

A UV gel polish is a type of nail polish that performs like a traditional polish but lasts much longer. It is applied over a base coat and cured under an LED nail lamp to adhere and harden. It is available in many shades and can be worn for several weeks before needing a touch-up.

Most gel nail polishes are based on acrylic polymers and need to be cured under LED or UV lamps. The process of curing converts the soft gel into a solid, long-wearing finish that resists chipping. Most gel polishes are also formulated with polymers that help them to adhere and remain durable.

There are many different types of gel polish brands and the differences come down to quality, longevity, UV gel nail polish durability, color selection and pricing. Some of the most popular salon-quality gel polishes include OPI and Gelish. Both of these lines are known for their wide range of color options and easy polish removal.

The chemicals that polymerize the gel in a nail polish are called photoinitiators. The most common are methyl methacrylate (HEMA) and di-HEMA trimethyl hexyl dicarbamate, but other methacrylates and oligomers are used as well. The combination of these monomers creates a cross-linking network that gives the gel its strength and durability. There are also various other ingredients such as stabilizers, rheology modifiers and preservatives in every gel polish formula.

How is a UV gel polish cured?

In order for a UV gel polish to harden, it must be cured under a specific wavelength of UV light. This curing process is called polymerization and transforms the soft gel into a durable, solid product. Gel nail polish is made of small molecules called monomers that link together in a chain reaction to form long plastic chains known as polymers. When the monomers are exposed to UV/LED rays they are activated by the photoinitiators in the gel and react quickly to convert into a solid material.

To ensure that your UV gel polish is properly cured, it is essential to follow the directions for use. Generally, gel base coats must be cured for 45 seconds before applying the color or top coats. For optimal results, apply thin coats in multiple layers and always cure each hand separately. This will prevent smudging and allow the nails to fully dry between coats.

When choosing a brand of gel polish, look for quality ingredients that offer the best value. The best products have a balance of oligomers, photo-initiators and catalysts that provide an excellent cure. The polish should also have an easy-to-control brush with a consistent, smooth application. It should also have intense pigmentation and a luminous shine. Finally, look for a brand that is gentle on natural nails and is free of chemicals such as formaldehyde.

What are the ingredients in a UV gel polish?

Most gel nail polishes contain the same supporting actors as traditional nail lacquer – stabilizers, rheology modifiers, preservatives, solvents and of course pigment. The pigment is what creates the color and provides the brightness and staying power that we all love. Cosmetic chemists are hard at work creating a formula that works well and is consistent throughout a line of nail products.

The difference between conventional nail polish and gel is that gel nail polish contains a combination of methacrylate monomers and radical initiators such as benzoyl peroxide. These are the building blocks of the long polymer chains that harden on the nail when exposed to UV light. The photoinitiators absorb the UV rays and split them into free radicals that kick-start the polymerization process. This is what makes gels so much quicker to dry than regular nail polish.

It is important for a nail professional to perform a thorough consultation before offering a client a gel manicure. Gels are not appropriate for everyone, especially if the nails are damaged or brittle. The best way to protect the nails while having a gel manicure is to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen and keep them moisturized with nail strengthening products like ORLY Nailtrition.

Another way to keep the nails healthy during a manicure is to never cut or pick at them and always wear gloves. This will help prevent nail damage and infections that could be caused by tearing the cuticle or using harsh removers. Using a cuticle oil every day will also keep the nails strong and healthy.

What are the advantages of a UV gel manicure?

A gel manicure is a great choice for people who want their nails to look perfect for a long time. It lasts longer than a traditional nail polish and doesn’t need touch-ups, which saves a lot of time. Plus, it looks very natural and is very flexible compared to rigid acrylic nails.

A major advantage of a gel manicure is that it is completely safe for your nails. This is because the chemicals in a regular nail polish can damage gel polish wholesale your nails and cause them to break down quickly. The UV light used to cure the gel polish also protects your nails from bacterial infections, which can cause nail discoloration.

The main disadvantage of a gel manicure is that the UV rays used to cure the polish can potentially increase your risk of developing skin cancer. However, this is only a concern if you get gel manicures regularly. It is recommended that you wear sunscreen or UV-absorbent gloves to protect your hands when getting a gel manicure.

Another disadvantage of a gel manicure is that it can be expensive. In the United States, a gel manicure can cost anywhere from $45 to $100. However, you can reduce the cost of a gel manicure by visiting a salon that offers a discount for first-time customers. You can also minimize the cost of a gel manicure by bringing your own nail dryer or asking the manicurist to use an LED curing lamp rather than a standard UV lamp.