Taking a weekly manicure? Bengaluru Dermatologist Warns How LED Gel Lamps Can Damage Your Skin

Gel manicures are easily one of the hippest trends in the beauty world these days. They provide weeks of long-lasting shine, chip-resistant polish, and that perfect salon-like look we all love. Nevertheless, there have been emerging dermatological concerns regarding the frequent exposure to the LED gel lamps used to cure the polish.

While these lamps are often marketed as a safer alternative compared to the conventional UV lamps, they still produce ultraviolet radiation. Without the right precautions, this exposure can lead to long-term skin damage. Such sessions, often done several times a month, can lead to a slow build-up of radiation on the skin of our hands, an area that is already incredibly susceptible to early ageing, says Dr Veena Praveen, Head Medical Advisor (South) and Consultant Dermatologist at Kaya Limited, Bengaluru. Continue reading to understand what else she shared with us.

Weekly Manicure and Hidden Risk Of LED Gel Lamps

Many people assume LED lamps are harmless, but science suggests otherwise. During the conversation with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, Dr Praveen highlights that the primary concern lies in the type of light being emitted. "LED nail lamps majorly produce UVA radiation, and this penetrates more deeply into the skin than UVB rays do. Even though exposure per session during a single manicure procedure might be insignificant, exposure may cause photoaging to develop faster over time," she notes.

She further explains that, as a dermatologist, observations indicate that repeated exposure to UVA can cause pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, and a reduction in skin elasticity on the hands.

Our hands often receive far less sun protection than our faces. This repeated radiation adds to existing sun damage, eventually causing the skin to look prematurely aged, with visible dark spots and an uneven texture.

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Risk of Skin Cancer

Beyond the cosmetic concerns of wrinkles and spots, there is the question of long-term health risks. While research is still ongoing, Dr Praveen warns about the potential risk of skin cancer.

According to Dr Praveen, "The next issue that comes up with long-term use of LED gel lamps is the possible long-term risk of skin cancer; however, the current studies are still under research. Other experiments in the laboratory have revealed that some UV nail lamps have the potential to damage cells in experimental conditions. Although the risk posed by occasional manicures is rather low, the risk can be developed by those who have been getting them regularly for years."

Dr Veena notes that individuals with a history of skin cancer, photosensitivity, or extremely fair skin are at a higher risk. The goal isn't to stop your grooming routine entirely, but to adopt preventive strategies that reduce potential harm.

Damage to the Skin Barrier

It isn't just the light that causes issues; the process of maintaining gel nails can also weaken the skin's natural defences. Dr Praveen explains how frequent manicures can lead to skin barrier disruption:

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• Repeated gel removal involving acetone soaking can strip the skin and nails of natural oils. This could result in drying, scratching and heightened sensitivity, leaving the skin vulnerable to the effects of the UV.
• Constant polishing and scraping can result in weakened surrounding skin and tiny scratches.
• As the barrier weakens, the skin becomes more vulnerable to the effects of UV light, such as microtraumas in the area of the cuticles, which may increase the probability of infection and inflammation, worsening the state of the skin near the nails.

How to Enjoy Your Manicure Safely

The good news is that you don't have to give up your love for gel polish. Dr Praveen highlights that preventive dermatology is all about minimising UV exposure without disrupting your beauty habits.

• Apply a broad-spectrum, high-SPF sunscreen to your hands approximately 20 minutes before your manicure. This can significantly decrease the amount of UVA absorbed by the skin.
• Consider wearing fingerless UV-protective gloves. These are specially designed to leave only the nails exposed while the rest of the skin remains covered and safe.
• Select salons with more up-to-date and lower-intensity LED lamps to reduce cumulative exposure risks.
• Reduce the frequency of your sessions to allow the skin and nails time to recover.

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Bottomline

Ultimately, gel manicures can remain a part of your grooming routine if used with awareness and moderation. As Dr Praveen suggests, prioritise the long-term health of your skin over aesthetic preferences to protect your skin and overall well-being.