Acrylic Nails – Are They Really Safe For Health?

Nails  are one of the parts of our body that we – women – take care of the most and most willingly. However, making a perfect manicure is a real challenge, especially if we naturally have a problem with brittleness or splitting nails.

Then, however, the latest achievements of cosmetic technologies, such as gel nails  , acrylic nails or hybrid manicure, come to the rescue  .

Each of these types of manicure is very effective and durable, but it turns out that in the long run it can do us more harm than good. Want to know the possible health risks of acrylic nails? Be sure to read on.

Why are acrylic nails so popular?

More and more women of almost all ages decide to extend their nails using the gel or acrylic method. Acrylic nails provide the effect of a perfect manicure, as they are made of plastic and durable plastic. Thanks to this, each of us can feel like a star on the front pages of newspapers.

The answer to the question of why artificial nails are so popular is quite simple: it is the best way to hide any imperfections in our natural nail plate.

In addition, acrylic or gel nails allow you to make decorations that would be impossible or not very effective on a natural, and especially short, nail.

If you have an ugly habit of biting your nails or if your nails are simply brittle, brittle and short, a gel or acrylic manicure is definitely a great solution for weddings, parties or other special occasions when you really want to shine.

What risks do you need to know about?

Acrylic manicure seems to be something completely natural and harmless, but it is worth being aware of possible side effects that can be caused by the process of applying the gel or acrylic, as well as its long-term wear. Here are a few options for what could happen:

• Chemicals in acrylic, such as formaldehyde and synthetic resin, can cause inflammation, burning, pain and allergic reactions. In extreme cases, this can even lead to the nail detachment!
• There have been cases of nail loss or destruction of the nail bed, so that such a nail will not be able to grow back.

• If there is no adequate ventilation of the rooms in the selected beauty salon, inhalation may occur and, as a consequence, poisoning with chemicals or irritants.
• Some salons use methyl methacrylate for treatments, which can be dangerous for both your skin and the respiratory system.
• Some of the substances used for nail extensions are flammable, so be careful with lamps, dryers and other heat sources.

What else should you pay attention to?

• Make sure that the salon where you perform your manicure cares for the sterilization of tools or uses only disposable products. The risk of mycosis infection is particularly high in the case of such treatments.

• The beautician should wear disposable gloves throughout the procedure. A simple cut can be the source of many infectious diseases.
• Do not cut or push the cuticles away – they are a natural protective barrier for your nail, protecting you against infections and the harmful effects of microorganisms.
• Before the procedure, be sure to wash and dry your hands so that no bacteria or fungi remain on the plate before applying the acrylic.

Before you decide …

Before you decide on gel or acrylic nails, you must be aware of all the risks and possible inconveniences associated with this type of manicure. Even in the best salon, mishaps sometimes happen, so only a conscious client is a safe client.

• Remember that acrylic nails are stiff and easy to damage. By tearing an acrylic nail, you can also tear off your natural nail plate, which is extremely painful and takes a long time to heal.

• Artificial nails pose a greater risk of infection ; Microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi can hide between the acrylic and the natural plate.
• Quite a common problem is allergic reactions to acrylic or gel – most often it is an allergy to plastic and toxins. Symptoms include redness, swelling and itching of the skin.
• A damaged acrylic nail poses a higher risk of viral or bacterial contamination. In this case, you should repair the broken manicure as soon as possible or remove it completely!

The decision to extend your nails shouldn’t be too hasty. We hope that this article made you aware of the possible risks and side effects of acrylic or gel manicures, so now you can decide for yourself how ready you are for such a risk.

If you decide to do such a manicure, be sure to choose a professional beauty salon, properly ventilated and tidy. After applying the gel, be sure to watch your hands and react to every, even the smallest change. Above all, however – everything in moderation! After the appropriate time, give your nails a rest.