Impact of Acrylic Nails on Natural Nails: Exploring Studies, Maintenance Tips, and Other Factors
Acrylic nails, a popular choice for enhancing nail appearance, can potentially lead to various health issues due to the chemicals involved in their application and the mechanical stress they impose on the natural nail[1][2][4][5].
Allergic Reactions, Eczema, and Nail Damage
The substances used in acrylic nails, including acrylic liquid monomers, powders, and adhesives, can trigger contact dermatitis, causing symptoms like redness, itching, eczema around the nail area, nail discoloration, detachment from the nail bed (onycholysis), and sometimes infection or pain[1][2][4][5].
Causes of these issues:
- Allergic reactions and eczema: Chemicals in acrylic adhesives and polymers may act as allergens, leading to contact dermatitis. This reaction can appear suddenly, even after months or years of use, causing redness, itching, eczema near nails, and discomfort[1][5].
- Nail damage: Improper application or removal of acrylic nails can physically weaken the natural nail, leading to thinning, rough texture changes, and slowed or disrupted nail growth. Nail detachment (onycholysis) may result from allergic inflammation or mechanical trauma during the acrylic process[1][2][4].
Preventive Measures:
- Have acrylic nails applied and removed by a skilled professional to avoid improper techniques that damage nails[2].
- Be aware of any sensitivities or allergies before getting acrylic nails; consult a dermatologist or nail technician if prone to allergic reactions[2][5].
- Limit frequency of acrylic nail application to give nails time to recover between treatments.
- Follow proper nail care routines, such as moisturizing the nail area and avoiding harsh chemicals or excessive water exposure.
- Use hypoallergenic products or alternatives to common acrylic chemical ingredients if you have known sensitivities[5].
- If symptoms like itching, redness, or nail changes appear, discontinue use and seek medical advice promptly to prevent worsening eczema or infection[1][4].
Additional Tips:
- It is advisable for individuals to only use acrylic nails for special occasions to support their natural nail health.
- Picking at acrylic nails can damage the natural nail plate and lead to flaking or pits on the nails.
- Red or discolored patches of dry skin can be a symptom of dermatitis, and individuals who notice these symptoms after exposure to acrylics should consult a doctor.
- A person should avoid picking at or peeling off artificial nails to reduce the risk of nail breakage or thinning.
Alternatives and Precautions:
- Soak-off gel nails may be less abrasive than acrylic nails and less likely to cause nail cracks.
- Acrylic nails trap more bacteria than natural nails, and many healthcare settings do not allow employees to wear artificial nails to reduce the risk of infections.
- Experts recommend taking care when wearing acrylic nails to avoid potential health risks.
- The ultraviolet (UV) light used in some nail salons to set artificial nails can be damaging. Using LED curing lights instead can help reduce exposure to UV light and potential skin damage.
- Approximately up to 50% of women worldwide use nail products[6]. It is crucial to be informed about the potential risks and take necessary precautions to maintain healthy nails.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness and skin-care, it is essential to be aware of fungal infections of nails, particularly when wearing acrylic nails, as they may contribute to such infections due to the environment they create for microorganisms.
- The field of dermatology highlights the importance of understanding the causes and preventive measures for allergic reactions and eczema that can stem from acrylic nail usage, which can lead to skin irritation and discomfort.
- For those seeking fashion-and-beauty trends while maintaining good health, incorporating nutrition into their lifestyle can help support nail growth and overall health, reducing the potential risk of nail damage and allergic reactions associated with acrylic nails.
- When considering nail care, science suggests that individuals should be mindful of lifestyle factors, such as hydration and avoiding frequent use of artificial nails, as these practices can contribute to maintaining healthy, vibrant nails and reducing the risk of eczema, infection, or other skin-related issues.
