Acrylic nails are created by combining a liquid monomer with a powdered polymer to form a hard, durable layer over the natural nail. This process generates chemicals and fumes, raising questions about safety during pregnancy. While short-term exposure is unlikely to cause serious harm, pregnancy naturally heightens caution regarding unnecessary chemical exposure. Understanding the specific components and the application environment allows for an informed decision about maintaining this beauty routine.
The Primary Safety Concern: Chemical Exposure
The liquid component in traditional acrylic systems, the monomer, is typically ethyl methacrylate (EMA). EMA links the polymer particles to create the artificial nail. Although EMA is considered safe for cosmetic use, it can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if it contacts the skin.
Some unregulated products may contain methyl methacrylate (MMA), which is banned by the FDA due to its potential to cause severe skin damage, permanent nail injury, and respiratory issues. Other chemicals found in the salon environment include formaldehyde and toluene. Formaldehyde is an irritant, and toluene is a solvent that can affect the nervous system at high concentrations.
Addressing Fume Inhalation Risks
The strong smell associated with acrylic application comes from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that vaporize during the mixing and curing process. These fumes are the primary pathway for chemical exposure, potentially causing symptoms like nausea, headaches, or dizziness. Limiting inhalation is a precaution, as the developing fetus is indirectly exposed through the mother’s bloodstream.
High-quality ventilation systems, such as local exhaust ventilation, significantly reduce airborne chemical concentrations. When visiting a salon, request a workstation near an open window or an air purifier to help dilute the fumes. Minimizing the time spent in the salon also reduces sustained inhalation exposure.
Practical Considerations for Labor and Delivery
As pregnancy nears its end, the focus shifts from application safety to medical readiness, particularly concerning accurate monitoring during labor and delivery. Hospitals and surgical centers recommend removing all nail enhancements, including acrylics, gels, and dark polish, before any scheduled procedure. This is due to potential interference with a pulse oximeter, a device placed on the fingertip to measure blood oxygen saturation levels.
The pulse oximeter works by shining light through the nail and fingertip; thick or opaque enhancements can absorb this light, leading to inaccurate readings. Since blood oxygen monitoring is a routine measure during labor or surgery, having at least one clear nail is often required. Expectant mothers should check their hospital’s specific policy well before their due date.
Safer Alternatives During Pregnancy
Several safer options exist for maintaining manicured nails while avoiding the risks or strong smells of acrylics. Standard nail polish is a less chemically intensive alternative with lower exposure risk, especially when applied in a well-ventilated space. Many brands offer “3-free” or “5-free” formulas, which avoid common irritants like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP).
Press-on nails are a low-risk option, using adhesive tabs or simple glue for application, thus eliminating the need for the liquid monomer and polymer combination. Some expectant mothers choose to avoid all nail enhancements entirely during the first trimester, when fetal organ development is most rapid.