Although gel manicures can be beautiful and long-lasting, they can be tough on nails. Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling and cracking, and repeated use can increase the risk for skin cancer and premature skin aging on the hands.
To keep your nails healthy before, during and after gel manicures, dermatologists recommend the following tips:
• Be proactive with your manicurist. Ask if tools are sterilized, and look around to make sure she is cleaning and disinfecting tools after every client.
• Consider traditional nail polish instead of gel polish, especially if you experience recurring nail problems.
• Wear sunscreen. Before getting a gel manicure, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands to prevent skin cancer and premature skin aging.
• Don’t pick gel nail polish. When the color begins to come off, don’t pick at the polish or use other nails or tools to remove it. Instead, make an appointment with your manicurist to have the polish removed. This will avoid injuries, peeling and cracks in your nails.
• Avoid acrylic or gel treatments if you are allergic to acetone, as acetone is required to remove gel polish.
To treat your nails between gel manicures, use the following tips:
• Take a nail polish holiday. Try not to wear nail polish for one to two weeks or longer. This will allow your nails time to repair.
• Rehydrate your nails. Between polishes, apply a rich moisturizing product with vitamin E to your nails and cuticles several times daily. This will minimize brittleness and help prevent your nails from chipping.
• Consult your dermatologist if you have an allergic reaction or a rash from the materials used for the gel manicure (nickel, acetone).
Consider getting a gel manicure for special occasions only and see your dermatologist if you notice any unusual changes to your nails or have a persistent nail problem.