What you need to know about gel allergies and the best alternative to gel nails
Have you been struggling with allergic reactions from gel nails, and want to find out more? We've got you! Read on to find out more about what causes allergies and why Glaize gels are a great alternative.
Since their invention in the 1980's, gel nails have taken the beauty world by storm, offering a chip-free, glossy finish that lasts for weeks. But as much as we love that gel mani shine, there's a not-so-glamorous side to them: gel nail allergies. Allergic reactions to gel polish are unfortunately a thing, and they can be pretty nasty. But don't worry, we're here to break down everything you need to know, so you can keep your nails looking fabulous and safe.
Why are they so dangerous?
Allergic reactions don't just make you a bit itchy - they can be incredibly serious. When your skin reacts to the chemicals in gel polish, you might experience redness, swelling, and itching around your nails. In more severe cases, blisters and peeling can occur, and your nails might even lift or separate from the nail bed (ouch!).
What makes it worse is that once you develop an allergy, it's usually a lifelong issue. That means every time you're exposed to the allergen, the reaction can get worse. And considering that methacrylates (the main culprits in gel allergies) are also found in dental materials, some adhesives and even joint replacements, this could complicate things beyond just your nails. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, methacrylate allergies can lead to persistent, chronic dermatitis, making them a serious concern.
Are allergic reactions to gel manicures on the rise?
Unfortunately, allergic reactions to gel manicures have been increasing. A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology reported a notable rise in cases of allergic contact dermatitis linked to gel polish, particularly due to improper application techniques and increased exposure to allergens.
This rise is partly due to the growing popularity of at-home gel kits, especially during the pandemic. While it might be fun (and cheaper) to do DIY gel nails, it's easy to make mistakes, for example, getting polish on your skin or not curing the gel properly under a UV lamp. These mishaps can increase your exposure to the allergenic chemicals in gel polish, making you more likely to develop an allergy. It's therefore not advisable to do your own gel nails at home, unless you are a qualified nail technician.
What causes allergic reactions to gel nails?
So, what exactly is in gel polish that's causing all this trouble? Well, the main ingredients to blame are methacrylates, the chemicals that help the polish to harden under UV light. Methacrylates are powerful, but they're also potent allergens. When uncured methacrylates come into contact with your skin, your immune system might overreact, leading to an allergic reaction.
Methacrylates aren't the only potential problem; photo-initiators, which are also used to help the gel cure under UV light, along with other additives, such as fragrances and preservatives can also trigger allergic reactions. According to research published in the Contact Dermatitis Journal, repeated exposure to these allergens can lead to sensitization, meaning you could develop an allergy even if you've used gel polish for years without a problem.
What's the best alternative to gel nails?
The good news is you can still get gorgeous-looking gel nails, without the risk - Glaize gels are a great solution if this is you.
Could Glaize gels work for me if I'm allergic to gel polish?
Yes, Glaize gels are often a great alternative for people suffering from gel allergies. We also offer free samples for customers suffering from allergies, so that you can test them before committing to buying any, just in case. Find out more in our Help Centre.
What makes Glaize gels different?
Our formulation chemist Dan explains what sets Glaize gels apart from other alternatives
"Because our gels are already cured, you don't need a UV lamp, which we know is a concern for many of our customers. Glaize gels are mainly made up of methacrylates, but unlike getting your nails done at a salon or at home with a UV lamp, the gels that you receive are fully cured using our industrial UV lamps, which means that the methacrylates are locked into the gels, so they don't come into contact with the nail."
We have also conducted animal-free testing that confirms that our gels are non-skin irritating. You can also rest assured that Glaize gels don't contain the following acrylates: (meth)acrylic acid, methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA). We always recommend testing a small sample first to be on the safe side if you do have any allergies or concerns."
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Salon-quality nails in under 10 minutes, with zero damage and zero fuss. Stick on to apply, peel off to remove. Our gels are also toxin-free and vegan. What's not to love?
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Ready for toe-tally stunning nails? Our high-shine stick-on gel pedicure has you covered! Simply stick them on, press down and clip off any excess length
Shop Pedicure
Stick-On Gel Manicure
Salon-quality nails in under 10 minutes, with zero damage and zero fuss. Stick on to apply, peel off to remove. Our gels are also toxin-free and vegan. What's not to love?
Shop ManicureStick-On Gel Pedicure
Ready for toe-tally stunning nails? Our high-shine stick-on gel pedicure has you covered! Simply stick them on, press down and clip off any excess length
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So… there you have it
Traditional gel manicures might look fab, but they're not without risks. Allergic reactions to gel polish are becoming more and more common, and they can be extremely serious. By understanding what causes these allergies and opting for safer alternatives, you can keep your nails looking on-point, without taking any unnecessary risks. Remember, beauty should never come at the cost of your well-being!
If you're on the hunt for more in-depth info on gel allergies, you can check out studies in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology and the British Journal of Dermatology. These journals delve deep into the science behind allergic reactions and provide a wealth of knowledge for anyone concerned about allergies to gel nail products.