Thanks to the hundreds of affordable nail salons popping up all over Australia, gel and acrylic nails have hit peak popularity. More hardwearing than the standard manicure, it makes sense that busy and working women take a little time out to get their nails done every so often.
However, new research reveals that there is a chemical in both nail treatments that can have side effects if not applied properly. Dermatologists in the UK and Ireland have officially issued a health warning about the methacrylate chemical, an ingredient in most gel and acrylic nails, which is apparently causing an ‘allergy epidemic’ that is affecting women across the two nations.
The study looked at allergy tests of 4,931 patients across 13 dermatology units in the UK and Ireland in 2017, and found at least 2.4 per cent of people could be affected with this allergy.
A study conducted in 2017 by the British Association of Dermatologists discovered that allergic reactions to the chemical were most likely when the chemical touches the skin. Side effects include loosening nails or a severe red and itchy rash that appears anywhere on the body, including eyelids, face, neck and in severe cases, cause breathing difficulties.
Apparently, the allergic reaction is more likely to occur in beauticians who regularly handle the nail products, and when people do DIY gel or acrylic manicures at home rather than seeing a trained professional. The takeaway here is you should be wary of at-home gel and acrylic nail kits, and instead rely on a trusted nail technician to take care of your paws.
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