Does a UV light dry regular nail polish? But Is There a Downside? - Rating Haven

Does a UV Light Dry regular Nail polish But Are There Any Disadvantages?

Does a UV light dry regular nail polish

The Joy of a Fresh Gel Manicure: Is There a Trade-Off?

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a fresh gel manicure. However, the waiting time for your nails to dry can be less enjoyable. Fortunately, UV lamps can expedite the drying process while setting your polish. But there’s a catch: these lamps—whether UV or LED—might pose risks to your skin. To delve deeper into these concerns, we consulted two dermatologists who are specialists in this area.

Understanding UV Light and Its Potential Risks

Are UV Lamps Harmful?

“The UV light boxes used in nail salons to set gel polish emit UVA rays, which are linked to skin damage,” says Dr. Stacy Chimento.

Expert Insight: Dr. Stacy Chimento is a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami at Riverchase Dermatology.
Additional Expert: Dr. Kavita Mariwalla is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
Detail from Dr. Chimento: “UVA radiation can cause premature wrinkles, age spots, and, in severe cases, skin cancer.” Dr. Chimento also mentions that even LED lamps, marketed as safer, may emit UVA light that can still contribute to photo-aging.

Meet the expert

Dr. Stacy Chimento is a board-certified Miami-based dermatologist at Riverchase Dermatology.
Dr. Kavita Mariwalla is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist.

In particular, Dr. Chimento clarifies that “UVA rays can cause early wrinkles, age spots, and in severe instances, skin cancer.” She further mentions that the issue with LED lamps (which you might have encountered advertised as “healthier for you”) is that they can emit light within the UVA spectrum, which still presents dangers of photo-aging.

Do UV Lamps Increase Skin Cancer Risk?

While it may not be the same as lounging in the sun without protection, Dr. Kavita Mariwalla emphasizes the need to take precautions when using a UV lamp. can you use a uv light on regular nail polish?

“While a weekly or bi-monthly gel manicure alone probably won’t lead to skin cancer, if you are a frequent visitor and have been doing it for many years, you might observe an increase in freckles on your hands,” she observes. “However, it is definitely not equivalent to using a tanning bed.”

Does a UV light dry regular nail polish

$20 AT AMAZON

Effects of UV Lamps on Skin and Nails

Impact on Skin and Nails

Although gel nails can endure significantly longer and are more resilient than regular polish, both Dr. Chimento and Dr. Mariwalla express caution regarding the procedure.

Dr. Mariwalla states, “In my opinion, gel manicures and artificial nails, in general, are not particularly good for your natural nails.” “To the degree that those behaviors prompt you to place your hands under the lights, it transforms into somewhat of an unhealthy habit at times.” Consistently receiving gel manicures may cause the skin on your hands to age more rapidly and lose its elasticity sooner than it typically would, she explains.

Dr. Chimento notes that the acetone commonly employed in manicures may also lead to skin dryness, increasing its sensitivity to UV radiation. “According to Dr. Chimento, taking specific medications such as doxycycline can elevate your risk of skin burns and nail detachment from the bed when exposed to light.”

Thankfully, the lamp itself won’t damage your nails — but the polish could. Dr. Mariwalla explains that the thick layer of gel polish protects your nails while drying your manicure under a UV lamp. “In that regard, I don’t believe those lamps harm the nails specifically,” she states. “However, the real gel and acrylics definitely cause thinning of the nail plates and may result in nail infections and lifting if moisture then Does a UV light dry regular nail polish gets.

Gel manicures offer durability and longer-lasting results compared to regular polish, but both Dr. Chimento and Dr. Mariwalla have reservations.
Dr. Mariwalla’s Perspective: “Gel manicures and artificial nails are not very healthy for natural nails. The exposure to UV light during frequent manicures can accelerate skin aging and reduce elasticity over time.”
Additional Considerations:** The acetone used in manicures can dry out your skin, making it more sensitive to UV rays. “If you’re on medications like doxycycline, combining them with UV light increases the risk of skin burning and nail separation,” adds Dr. Chimento.

How Can I Reduce My UV Light Exposure While Visiting the Nail Salon?

Dr. Chimento mentions that using SPF 30 sunscreen at least 20 minutes before exposing your hands to the lamp is effective, but UV gloves could be a suitable option if you prefer not to apply sunscreen before your manicure.

Dr. Mariwalla states, “I believe UV gloves featuring fingertip cutouts are excellent, just like applying sunscreen.” “Wearing hand protection will stop harm from occurring to your skin.”

The Bottom Line

Keep in mind that ultimately, you are still subjecting your hands to UV rays repeatedly when you get gel manicures. Feel free to consider using SPF, wearing gloves, or reserving your gel manicures for special events.

Does UV Light Affect Your Nails?

While the UV lamp itself doesn’t harm nails directly, the polish can have adverse effects. Dr. Mariwalla explains, “The thick gel polish protects your nails during drying, but the gel and acrylics can thin nail plates and potentially lead to infections or lifting if water gets underneath.”

How to Minimize UV Exposure During Manicures

Protecting Your Skin

To reduce UV exposure during your manicure, does a UV light dry regular nail polish consider these tips:

Use Sunscreen: Applying SPF 30 on your hands at least 20 minutes before UV exposure is effective.
UV Gloves: Alternatively, UV gloves with fingertip cutouts can be used for added protection.

Dr. Mariwalla suggests, “Both sunscreen and UV gloves are good options. Using protection can help prevent skin damage.”

Does a UV light dry regular nail polish

$20 AT AMAZON

In Summary

Regular exposure to UV rays during gel manicures does have potential risks. Consider using SPF, UV gloves, or limiting gel manicures to special occasions to mitigate these risks.

FAQs