Is Nail Art Stunning or Dangerous?

Is Nail Art Stunning or Dangerous? With every shade, texture, and pattern practically at our fingertips, there are countless creative options for our nails. But are you really doing your nails any harm with all the painting and filing? A lot of people overlook the fact that healthy nails are just as necessary as healthy skin and hair. Additionally, nails can reveal a lot about your general health; sudden changes in color may indicate serious medical problems. So what role does our collection of lovely polishes play in all of this? “While nail products don’t always result in illness, they can cause contact dermatitis, which is a skin reaction brought on by exposure to allergens or irritants,” explains dermatologist Richard K. Scher, M.D., who specializes in nail health and is based in New York City.

MUST KNOW NAIL INGREDIENTS Is Nail Art Stunning or Dangerous?

INGREDIENTS
Not all Beauties, but a lot of them, have allergies to particular substances that react chemically. Dr. Scher says, “Acrylic is a great example.” “A small percent of the population can have an immediate reaction to acrylic nails upon contact, but most don’t have that issue.” Formaldehyde and certain coloring chemicals are among the other allergies. The majority of lacquer formulas are now devoid of formaldehyde, but extended contact with the nail can still result in onycholysis, a condition in which the nail plate—the portion of the nail that is above the skin—detaches from the nail bed.

IRRITANTS
Most people that come into contact with primary irritants are affected by them. Common examples of solvents that irritate the skin and may cause brittle nail condition are acetone and alcohol. “Many people who use cuticle softener sometimes get red, itchy skin as well—potassium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide are usually the irritants,” according to Dr. Scher. Primary irritants include toluene and dibutyl phthalate, two of the “three-free” substances eliminated from the majority of contemporary polish formulas.

CAN YOU STAY AWAY FROM ARTIFICIAL NAILS?

Recent years have seen the rise in popularity of new nail technology, such as UV-cured gel polish, but are they safer than more conventional artificial alternatives? “You have to keep in mind that these gel formulations contain acrylic as well,” says Dr. Scher. “While gel nails are less occlusive than sculptures,—meaning they allow the nail to breathe more—they’re still a hybrid of polish and acrylic.” Removing them is also far more difficult than simply removing ordinary polish, just like their artificial equivalents. “Nails have to be soaked in potent acetone or even drilled off—I’m already seeing the damaging effects in a few patients,” says Dr. Scher. Concerns about the harmful effects of extended exposure also arise because UVA light is used to cure the layers. “We’re waiting to see what happens because UV-cured nail treatments are still relatively new,” Dr. Scher explains.

CAREFUL OR CORROSIVE?

Is there a long-term risk associated with nail fun? “It’s difficult to say,” Dr. Scher replies. “While there are no scientific data, patients who let their nails breathe occasionally have healthier, stronger nails.” Additionally, using abrasive shaping procedures can cause damage to the nails in addition to simply the lacquer.To put it simply, the fingernail grows from the cuticle to the nail tip in six months,” says Dr. Scher. “If you’re filing every week, you’re doing something to your nail more than 20 times in six months.” Excessive filing causes an abrasion that thins the nail bed and raises sensitivity.

FINAL SENTENCE:

That being said, Dr. Scher thinks that most items are beneficial when consumed in moderation. “I think there are many positive effects from nail products and nail art,” says Dr. Scher. “If you avoid the allergens and irritants, treat your nails well, and let them rest from time to time, there’s nothing wrong with nail cosmetics.” On the other hand, it’s appropriate to let off on the polish if your work becomes more than just a weekly pastime.