Nail Extension Side Effects: These days, beautifying your nails is becoming quite a trend. However, if you're not careful, this trend can be harmful.

Can nail extensions cause skin cancer?

Can Acrylic Nails Cause Skin Damage? Nail extensions and acrylic nails are becoming increasingly popular these days. Many people find long, shiny, and stylish nails to be extremely beautiful. However, experts believe that frequent use can be harmful to the skin and nails. In particular, the UV light and certain chemicals used in the application process can raise health concerns.

What do experts say?

Oncology surgeon Dr. Jay R. Anam explained in an interview with HT that while acrylic nails may look beautiful and last long, there are some hidden risks associated with their use. He says the problem isn't directly related to acrylic nails, but rather to the process of applying them. This process involves mixing a special powder and liquid substance and applying it to the nails, which is then hardened under a UV lamp. This UV light is a cause for concern. Experts say UVA rays can damage the DNA of skin cells. This damage accumulates over time, and repeated exposure over a long period of time can increase the risk of skin problems. Doctors say that occasional nail extensions aren't considered particularly dangerous, but if someone continues to undergo this procedure for a long time, the risks can gradually increase.

Effect on skin too

Some research suggests that exposing your hands to UV lamps hundreds of times can have negative effects on your skin. Furthermore, many acrylic products contain chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene, which can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. When these chemicals and UV rays combine, they can cause additional stress on your skin.

However, experts also agree that some precautions can reduce the risk. Applying sunscreen to your fingers before getting nail extensions is considered a good idea. Furthermore, using LED lamps instead of traditional UV lamps is considered relatively safe because they emit fewer ultraviolet rays.

What things should be kept in mind?

Doctors also advise that nail extensions are best limited to special occasions rather than making them a daily habit. Furthermore, the procedure should always be performed at a reputable salon. Another common mistake people make is attempting to remove acrylic nails at home. This can damage the skin and nails, so seeking expert help is considered the safest method.