· By Hannah Jones
The Hidden Dangers of Home Gel Nail Kits and How to Stay Safe
Home gel nail polish kits have become a beauty staple, offering the allure of salon-quality nails without leaving your cozy space. But before you dive into those DIY gel manicures, let's chat about some of the risks that come with them and how you can protect yourself while still rocking fabulous nails.
What’s the Deal with Gel Nail Polish?
Gel nail polish is a special type of polish that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to cure and harden each layer, giving you a chip-resistant, long-lasting finish. The process involves a base coat, a few layers of gel polish, and a topcoat—each needing a quick session under the UV lamp to set.
The UV Exposure Problem
The biggest concern with home gel kits? UV radiation. While the UV lamps in these kits are a lot less intense than the ones at a salon, regular exposure can still be harmful. We’re talking about potential skin damage, an increased risk of skin cancer, and premature aging (hello, wrinkles and age spots!). Not exactly what you signed up for, right?
Chemical Exposure: More Than Just Fumes
Another bummer with gel nail kits is the chemical cocktail they contain. Gel polishes are full of acrylates and methacrylates, which can lead to skin irritation, allergies, and other not-so-fun health issues. Breathing in the fumes might leave you with headaches, dizziness, or even respiratory problems. And if that’s not enough, some kits even sneak in formaldehyde—a known carcinogen. Yikes!
The Scary Side of Gel Polish Removal
So, you’ve got your gel nails looking fab, but what about when it’s time to take them off? The removal process usually involves soaking your nails in acetone, which can dry out your skin and nails, leading to irritation, cracking, or even chemical burns if you’re not careful. Trust us, you don’t want that!
How to Stay Safe with Home Gel Nail Kits
But don’t throw out your gel kit just yet! Here are some tips to keep your nails (and skin) safe:
-
Before you start curing, apply sunscreen to your hands to minimize UV exposure.
-
Wear gloves during the process and avoid touching your face, mouth, or eyes with them.
-
Use the kit in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
-
Stick to the instructions—especially when it comes to curing times.
-
Use a non-acetone remover to take off the gel, and don’t soak your nails longer than necessary.
-
Give Your Nails a Break! Let your nails breathe between gel applications to keep them healthy and strong.
Hanami’s Nail Rescue Picks
If you’re looking to nurse your nails back to health after (and between) gels here are some Hanami faves to add to your routine:
Rescue & Repair Duo Pack: This combo of nail and cuticle oil plus a strengthening gel is a lifesaver for nails in need of some TLC.
Nano Glass Nail File: A gentle and effective tool to keep your nails in shape without causing damage.