Are Your Manicures Safe?

Many of us visit the nail salon on a weekly basis, and some of us even have our favorite "Chinita" to get those nails looking spectacular.  There are so many nail polish colors, so many designs and so many type of ways to get the nails to look beautiful.

 Recently, the gel manicure has increased in popularity due to the nails drying almost instantly, shining like glass and not chipping for almost two weeks. Even though nail salons charge almost triple the price for this type of manicure than the regular manicure, some of us think it's worth it.  Or is it????

Gel manicures require that you dry the nails under UV (ultraviolet) lamps for at least 5-10 minutes. Those minutes under the bluish-purple light might make you wonder: Is this safe?

Well, a recent warning tell us that the typical 5-10-minute exposure to the light during a gel manicure could be harmful.  The UV light does elevate your risk for developing skin cancer and premature aging of the skin.

Of course, you have to know that it all depends on how frequently you’re getting your nails done this way because it’s a cumulative dose. Over time the more UV light you get, the more it increases the risk.

Many dermatologists recommend to wear sunscreen on your hands when you go for a gel manicure. But remember, the nail drying lights emit UV-A rays and not all sunscreens protect against those. 

One of the Mujeres has to confess that she is guilty of having this type of manicure and believes that it has its pros and cons.  Yes! the manicure last for weeks, but taking it off is a big pain.  You can try removing the polish at home using acetone nail polish remover, but doing so will probably require scraping causing the nails to get damaged and weak after awhile, and now this warning? It make us think twice, and ask ourselves, is it worth it to take the risk??

So, what to do?  Well, we can't STOP doing our nails.  They have to look pretty!!  So, if you are hooked on this type of manicure, make sure you do what the dermatologists are suggesting; to using sun block on the hands to reduce your risk of exposure, but make sure the sunscreen you choose protects against both UV-A and UV-B rays OR opt for a regular manicure.  A regular manicure won’t last as long, but you’ll avoid exposure to the UV lights.  Ultimately, the regular manicure is less expensive, and it's even cheaper if you do it yourself,  and the best part, you don't have to wonder-- is it safe??

Get Those Nails Done!!!