You were happy to have gel polish applied to your nails, but a few hours or days later, you noticed itching in your fingers. You suspect that this might be due to the ultraviolet radiation burning your fingers, or that you have an allergy to the gel polish.
The Process of Getting Gel Nail Polish
As you may have already noticed, the process of applying gel polish to nails consists of several stages.
First, the nails are cleaned and filed to the desired shape. Then a base coat is applied for protection. The magic begins with using the gel polish.
Each layer of gel polish hardens under a UV or LED lamp, giving the nails a shine and ensuring a long-lasting result. While this process is excellent for creating a durable manicure, it can sometimes cause an unpleasant itching sensation.
Why Cream Nails Can Make Your Fingers Itch?
The main motive for the itching you might experience after applying gel nail polish may be positive chemicals in the polish called acrylates and methacrylates. These compounds can irritate the skin of some people.
You might be wondering why acrylates and methacrylates are present in gel nail polishes. These are chemical compounds widely used in the beauty industry, especially in gel polishes, due to their ability to form a hard, durable coating under a UV or LED lamp, which lasts longer than traditional nail polish.
Allergic Reaction Symptoms
The scientific explanation for the annoyance and allergies produced by acrylates and methacrylates lies in their ability to sensitise the skin.
Upon contact with the skin, these substances can trigger an allergic reaction in some individuals because the immune system recognises them as potential threats and reacts defensively.
The severity of the retort can vary meaningfully between individuals, depending on factors such as the degree of exposure, prior sensitisation, and the individual’s overall immune response.
When they come into contact with the skin, these chemical compounds can penetrate the outer layers, triggering a localised inflammatory response. This answer can cause symptoms ranging from mild annoyance to severe dermatitis.
Symptoms may include redness, itching, swelling, and, in some cases, blisters or a rash, not only on the fingers but possibly spreading to other parts of the body, causing discomfort on the face, neck, or chest.
In individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, these reactions may even cause difficulty breathing or exacerbate asthma symptoms.
Furthermore, with repeated exposure, the body’s understanding of these elements can increase, leading to more severe adverse reactions over time.
This process, known as sensitisation, means that even small amounts of acrylates and methacrylates can trigger a significant allergic reaction in sensitised individuals.
It should also be noted that an allergy to acrylates or methacrylates, if it develops, can become a chronic, lifelong illness.
How to Stop Your Fingers From Longing After Gel Nails
If you like the look of gel nails but are bothered by the itching they cause, there are ways to minimise or prevent this unpleasant side effect.
Be Aware of the Perils Before Getting Gel Nails
Before smearing gel nail polish, it’s essential to know that some of its chemical components can cause allergic reactions. Manicurists who frequently come into contact with these products should wear nitrile gloves during application and change them regularly.
Ask an Expert to Do it for You.
A manicure performed by a highly qualified and experienced technician can significantly reduce the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions. Specialists who are familiar with the latest methods and nail care products are more likely to be aware of the possible perils associated with acrylates and methacrylates.
They can take precautions such as carefully applying gel polish, evading contact with the skin, and using the correct curing lamp and exposure time.
An experienced technician is also familiar with other products for clients with complex skin or allergies. They can provide valuable advice on maintaining healthy, beautiful nails without compromising your comfort or safety.
Furthermore, a professional can identify early signs of a reaction and recommend the optimal solution, whether it’s removing the polish or suggesting a different nail care regimen.
Use a Non-Acrylate Nail Polish Formula
Since acrylates and methacrylates are the main culprits behind allergic reactions and skin irritations, finding other nail polish formulas devoid of these chemicals could be a revolutionary solution.
Today, nail polish brands offer acrylic-free gel options that can meaningfully reduce or disregard the risk of impatience. These marginal formulas provide the durability and shine of traditional gel polishes without the risks associated with acrylates and methacrylates.
Choose the Right UV Lamp
It’s best to use the recommended lamp for curing gel polish, rather than mixing lamps and brands of polishes haphazardly. Each gel polish formula is intended to cure properly with specific types of lamps, whether UV or LED.
Spending the wrong type of lamp can result in insufficient polymerisation, leading to the polish not hardening properly. This not only reduces the durability of the cut but also increases the risk of uncured polish coming into contact with the skin, which can cause irritation or an allergic reaction.
Ensure Your Nails Are Fully Cured
One reason for irritation after applying gel polish may be incomplete curing under a UV or LED lamp. If the polish does not cure completely, uncured particles can come into contact with the skin, causing irritation or an allergic reaction.
To avoid this, always ensure that each layer of gel polish cures for the recommended time. Different brands and colours may require different curing times, so carefully read the product instructions.
Moisturise Your Skin
After a manicure, moisturising the skin around the nails will help relieve irritation. Choose a gentle, fragrance-free moisturising cream to reduce the likelihood of further irritation.
Try Anti-Inflammatory Creams
If the itching persists, using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory creams or ointments may provide relief. These products can help soothe skin irritation. However, before using any new product, especially if the symptoms are severe, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
Take a Break from Gel Polish
If you experience any allergic reaction. It might be a good idea to let your nails and skin recover before applying gel polish again. Temporarily switching to regular nail polish will help you determine whether the gel polish irritated.
Gel Polish or Regular Polish?
You might be wondering whether to continue using gel polish or switch back to traditional nail polish. Gel polish is known for its durability; it can last up to two weeks without chipping. It also has a shiny finish that many people appreciate. However, a drawback is the potential for allergic reactions from the chemicals it contains, as mentioned earlier.
Traditional nail polish. On the other hand, is cooler to apply and remove at home and generally doesn’t require UV light. Reducing the risk of skin irritation associated with UV exposure.
It also tends to cause fewer allergic reactions because it typically doesn’t contain the same harsh chemicals as gel polish. However, traditional polish may not last as long and chip more easily, requiring more frequent touch-ups or reapplication.
If you like the robustness and shine of gel polish but are worried about allergic reactions. You might want to try different brands, as some use formulas that are less likely to irritate.
Alternatively, if you have sensitive skin or want to avoid potential allergens, regular nail polish can be a safe option.
Conclusion
Itching or discomfort after gel nail extensions should not be ignored. As it is a sign that your body is reacting to something it doesn’t tolerate well.
It’s essential to monitor these symptoms and take defensive measures to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. This way, you can enjoy your beautiful nails without discomfort next time.