Acrylic nails offer a popular way to enhance natural nails. However, some individuals can experience an allergic reaction to specific chemicals used in these products. Allergic reactions are often caused by acrylate compounds like hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and ethyl methacrylate (EMA), monomers in the liquid and powder mix. Identifying and managing these reactions is important for nail health.
Recognizing the Signs
An allergic reaction to acrylic nails typically manifests as contact dermatitis, a skin reaction from irritating substances. Common symptoms include itching, redness, and swelling around the nail bed and fingertips. These reactions can also spread to other areas such as the face, eyelids, neck, or chest.
Symptoms can also include blistering, peeling or dry skin around the nails, and a burning sensation or pain. In some cases, the nail may detach from the nail bed (onycholyis). While mild irritation might present with some redness or dryness, an allergic reaction tends to involve more intense itching, swelling, and the potential for blisters.
Initial Home Management
If you suspect an allergic reaction, carefully remove the acrylic nails to prevent further allergen exposure. Once removed, gently clean the affected skin around the nails with mild soap and water. Applying cool compresses to the irritated areas can help reduce swelling and alleviate itching and burning sensations.
Over-the-counter remedies can provide relief for milder symptoms. Oral antihistamines may help reduce widespread itching and discomfort. For localized inflammation, a topical hydrocortisone cream (1% strength) can be applied daily to the affected skin to decrease redness, itching, and swelling. Avoid scratching, as this can worsen irritation or introduce infection.
When to Seek Professional Help
While home management can address mild reactions, seek professional medical attention for severe pain, spreading redness, or pus discharge around the nail, as these may indicate a secondary bacterial infection. A fever or difficulty breathing also warrant immediate medical evaluation, signaling a more severe systemic reaction. Consult a doctor if symptoms worsen, do not improve after a few days of home treatment, or if the reaction is extensive. A dermatologist or general practitioner can accurately diagnose and recommend appropriate treatment.
Medical Treatment Options
A healthcare professional can provide stronger treatments for severe or persistent allergic reactions. Prescription-strength topical corticosteroids, more potent than over-the-counter options, may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching, such as clobetasol or betamethasone applied directly to the skin. For widespread or very severe reactions, oral corticosteroids like prednisone might be prescribed briefly to suppress the immune response. If a secondary bacterial infection develops, antibiotics may be necessary. A dermatologist may also recommend patch testing to identify the specific chemical causing the allergy, which involves applying small amounts of common allergens to the skin and observing for reactions over several days.
Preventing Future Reactions
To prevent future allergic reactions, avoid the specific chemicals that caused the initial response. If you reacted to acrylic nails, avoid them. Alternative nail enhancements are an option, but many products, including some gel polishes and dip powders, also contain common allergens like acrylates or methacrylates.
Some brands offer “HEMA-free” gel polishes or hypoallergenic products, which may reduce reaction risk. Before applying any new nail product, perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous skin area for 24 to 48 hours to check for a reaction. Always communicate past allergic reactions to your nail technician so they can select appropriate products and minimize skin contact. Traditional nail polish typically does not contain acrylates and may be a safer alternative for very sensitive individuals.