Gel nails offer a durable and glossy finish, making them a popular choice for manicures. These products contain chemical ingredients that can sometimes lead to allergic reactions. Gel polishes can trigger an immune response in some people, even after prolonged use without issues.
Recognizing the Signs
An allergic reaction to gel nail products often manifests with symptoms on and around the nails. Individuals might experience itching, redness, or swelling of the skin surrounding the nail plate, including the cuticles and fingertips. Blistering and peeling of the skin are common indicators of an allergic response. The nail plate itself can show changes such as lifting from the nail bed (onycholysis), or become painful and tender to the touch.
Allergic reactions are not always confined to the hands. Uncured gel or dust can transfer to other body areas. Rashes, itching, redness, or swelling might appear on the eyelids, face, neck, chest, or inner thighs if contact occurs. Symptoms can emerge immediately after application, within a few hours, or several days later.
Common Triggers
Allergic reactions to gel nail products primarily stem from specific chemical ingredients: acrylates and methacrylates. These reactive monomers, when not fully cured, can sensitize the immune system. Hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and Di-HEMA Trimethylhexyl Dicarbamate are among the most frequently identified allergens in gel polishes. These molecules are designed to bond and harden under UV or LED light, but if unpolymerized, they can penetrate the skin.
Improper curing of gel polish is a significant factor in allergic reactions. When gel is under-cured, reactive monomers do not fully harden, increasing their likelihood of causing an immune response upon skin contact. Using an incompatible or insufficient UV/LED lamp, or applying overly thick layers, can result in incomplete curing. Direct skin contact with uncured gel during application, especially around the nail plate, triggers sensitization.
Steps to Take
If symptoms of a gel nail allergy appear, immediately remove the gel polish. This removal should be done gently, preferably by a professional, to prevent further irritation or damage to the sensitized skin and nail. Avoid picking or scraping the affected area, as this can worsen the condition. Thoroughly washing hands with mild soap after removal can help eliminate residual allergens.
Consulting a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or dermatologist, is the next step for diagnosis and treatment. They might prescribe topical steroid creams to reduce inflammation, redness, and itching, or oral antihistamines to manage symptoms and discomfort. A dermatologist may perform patch testing, applying small amounts of common allergens to the skin to identify the specific chemical causing the reaction. Once identified, avoid further contact with products containing that ingredient to prevent recurrence.
Prevention Strategies
Minimizing the risk of developing a gel nail allergy begins with selecting less allergenic products. Choosing “HEMA-free” or “hypoallergenic” gel polishes can reduce exposure to common sensitizers like HEMA and Di-HEMA. While these formulations aim to be gentler, other acrylates or ingredients might still trigger reactions in some individuals. Always check product labels for allergen information to make informed choices.
Proper application techniques prevent allergic reactions. This includes avoiding direct contact of uncured gel with the skin around the nail plate and cuticles during application. Apply thin, even coats of gel and ensure each layer is fully cured under the appropriate UV or LED lamp for the recommended time. Professional application in salons where technicians are trained in proper techniques and hygiene can further reduce the risk. For those who frequently handle gel products, such as nail technicians, wearing nitrile gloves provides a barrier against exposure to uncured monomers.