Manicures have become a staple of modern grooming, with women and men alike flocking to nail salons for a fresh coat of paint on their nails. However, some manicures can do more harm than good, and some of them could even endanger your health.

In this article, we will discuss several types of manicures that could put your health at risk.

Gel Manicures

Gel manicures have risen in popularity in recent years. The gel polish is cured under a UV lamp, resulting in a hardened finish that lasts longer than traditional polish.

However, some studies have shown that the UV light used in gel manicures could increase the risk of skin cancer. Additionally, the removal process of gel polish requires soaking the nails in acetone for an extended period, which could damage the nails and surrounding skin.

Powder Dip Manicures

Powder dip manicures have gained popularity in recent years due to their long-lasting finish. The process involves applying a base coat, dipping the nails in a powder, and repeating the process several times.

The resulting finish is hardened with an activator that can emit harmful chemicals. These chemicals could cause skin irritation and even respiratory problems if inhaled.

Airbrushed Manicures

Airbrushed manicures involve applying intricate designs to the nails using an airbrushing tool. While the method looks impressive, the paints used in airbrushing are often not meant for use on nails, and they could cause serious health problems.

Some of the paints contain toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, which could cause cancer and other health issues if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails are a popular option for those who want longer nails. The process involves gluing plastic or acrylic extensions to the natural nails and then painting them.

However, the chemicals used in acrylic nails, such as ethyl methacrylate, could cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and even cancer. Additionally, acrylic nails can trap bacteria, which could lead to infections.

Press-On Nails

Press-on nails are a popular alternative to traditional manicures, as they are easy to apply and remove.

However, the adhesives used in press-on nails could contain harmful chemicals like cyanoacrylate, which could cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Additionally, press-on nails could trap dirt and bacteria, which could lead to infections.

Nail Art Stickers

Nail art stickers are a popular way to add designs to nails without the use of paint or glue. However, some nail art stickers could contain harmful chemicals, such as phthalates, which could cause developmental and reproductive problems.

Additionally, some nail art stickers could contain lead, which could cause serious health problems if ingested or absorbed through the skin.

Infected Tools

Manicure tools, such as nail clippers and cuticle scissors, could carry bacteria and viruses if not properly sanitized. This could lead to infections, such as fungal infections or even hepatitis.

It is essential to make sure that the tools used in a salon are properly sanitized between clients.

Skin Damage from Excessive Buffing

Manicurists often use a buffing tool to smooth the surface of the nail before applying polish. However, excessive buffing could damage the nail and surrounding skin, leading to infections and even permanent damage.

It is essential to communicate with your manicurist and ensure that they do not use too much pressure or buffing on your nails.

Chemical Fumes

The chemicals used in nail salons, such as acetone and nail polish remover, could emit harmful fumes that could cause respiratory problems and even cancer with long-term exposure.

It is essential to ensure that the salon is properly ventilated, or consider seeking out salons that use safer and more natural alternatives.

Lack of Proper Sanitation

If the nail salon does not follow proper sanitation practices, clients could be exposed to a host of health hazards.

For example, if the footbaths are not cleaned thoroughly between clients, they could harbor harmful bacteria and fungi that could cause infections. Additionally, if the manicure tools are not sanitized correctly, they could spread infections between clients.