Are uv lamps safe for nails?
Imagine having the perfect gel manicure, with a glossy finish and a color that pops. However, did you know that the very UV drying lamps used to cure your gel polish may be putting your DNA at risk?
A recent study has revealed that the UV radiation emitted by these lamps can cause damage to your DNA, leading to potential health risks. But how concerned should we be about this? In this article, we’ll explore the findings of the study, the potential risks associated with UV drying lamps, and what you can do to protect yourself.
UV Lamp
The UV lamps used to dry the nail polish emit light that can cause DNA mutations, the same type of mutations often associated with cancer. The findings of this study may make you think twice before your next gel manicure appointment.
Researchers from the University of California San Diego have uncovered this risk through lab testing on cells from mice and humans.
The lamps that are used to set the long-lasting gel polish may appear safe, as they emit a spectrum of UVA radiation. However, researchers have discovered that repeated exposure to these lamps through multiple 20-minute sessions can actually lead to cell death and DNA damage. In other words, the lamps that seem harmless may actually be harmful to your cells and genetic makeup.
The study suggests that further research is needed to fully understand the potential hazards of gel manicures, which have become increasingly popular due to their longer-lasting finish. However, it is important to note that the study does not currently provide evidence of a cancer risk associated with gel manicures.
Recent research suggests radiation from nail polish dryers and UV lamps can cause hand cancer. UV lamps in nail salons may increase risk of early skin cancer, similar to tanning beds. Individuals should be aware of these risks and take precautions.
Keep in mind that the experiment we’re discussing was done in a lab setting, using cells grown in a single layer. This may not accurately mimic the complexity and conditions of real skin, so we should be cautious when interpreting the results. More research is needed to confirm the findings in a real-life setting.
The findings are relevant to real life, according to Dorothy Bennett, a professor of cell biology at St. George’s University of London.
Gloves / Sunscreen
According to a recent study, the so-called safe end of the UV waveband used in gel manicures may also pose a risk for skin tumors on the hands. While more data is needed to establish a definitive link between the use of these lamps and hand tumors, it is recommended that users and providers of these products are made aware of these findings. To reduce the risk, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests applying sunscreen to the hands before gel manicure appointments or wearing dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips cut off.
