If you've been scrolling through Instagram, Facebook, or even Tic Toc lately you have most likely seen videos and postings about the dangers of putting your hands under UV or LED curing lamps. Researchers are coming out stating that it is causing cancer as well as other damage to the nails and skin. Well, I'm here to hopefully clear up some misconceptions and misinformation so you can feel more comfortable about getting your nails done.
First, let's talk about what exactly UV and LED lamps are. UV lamps exclusively contain UV lights, which makes them the source of the highest amount of UV radiation. Although they are cheaper to purchase, they use more energy, require bulb replacing, and require 90-120 seconds to cure.
LED lamps exclusively contain LED lights, which emit narrower UV wavelengths that are more concentrated and carry higher energy levels. The LED lights in an LED lamp target specific photo-initiators in the gel polish which enables the gel to cure much faster than UV lights (30-60 seconds), use less energy and bulbs last 50, 000 hours.
UV/LED is a combination of both UV and LED lights- a mix between both lamps.
UV nail lamps were the original curing lamps designed to cure gel polish and hard gel. It revolutionized the nail industry because it took out the waiting time for polish and nail art to dry. It also added a longevity and durability for clients to wear their nails longer, (when done properly). And yes, it added an income boost for nail techs.
The other issue lately has been whether or not getting your nails cured under these lamps are "healthy". An article from The Post recently stated this:
Dermatologists who were not involved in a recent study told The Post it is important to note that the researchers examined human cells — not human beings, who have multiple layers of skin that provide additional protection against UV rays
Dermatologists said that, theoretically, UV nail dryers would be safer when used sporadically since UV exposure — and associated cancer risks — are cumulative. Many women who get gel nails return for maintenance every two to four weeks, depending on how fast their nails grow. Some women ask for gel nails, which are stronger and less likely to chip, only for special occasions a few times a year.
“If you sat every day with your hands under one of these machines, that’d be a problem,” said Melissa Piliang, a dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic who has spoken about risks associated with UV lamps.
It's important to remember this study does not provide direct evidence for an increased cancer risk in humans, the authors wrote. These are experimental results using in vitro cell line models, which don't perfectly emulate what happens in people in real life, so long-term studies are needed, they note.
But have we actually proven that link? Do we have that cause and effect proven? We don’t.”Dr. Chris Adigun, a dermatologist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, who specializes in nail disorders and who contributed expert advice on the safety of gel manicures for the American Academy of Dermatology.
Research will continue in this area, but since gel manicures are fairly new and it can take decades for skin cancer to develop, the full picture may not be clear for a while.
I also want to state that when it comes to lamps, whether UV, LED, or UV/LED combo lights, as well as any product being used during any service you're getting, that quality matters. Also proper application, cleanliness, disinfection practices and not cutting corners to make a buck are all important parts to a safe and healthy service. My hope with this blog and every blog posting is that it has given you something more to think about than just believing what you see on social media. Look into the services you are having done. Ask questions to your manicurist/nail tech about what they use. I've never turned away a client for asking too many questions about a service they are interested in getting. And transparency with clients needs to be more common in this industry.
The content of Amelia Cooper or Paisley Nail Studio LLC either through this website, Amelia Cooper or Paisley Nail Studio LLC social media pages, or any other materials distributed by Amelia Cooper or Paisley Nail Studio LLC is intended to share personal experiences and my personal opinion of what I have learned over the years in the beauty industry and through classes and continuing education. I am not a doctor, medical professional, aesthetician or nutrition professional, and do not provide medical advice. Readers are advised to do their own research and make their own decisions. If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition or are taking any medication, please consult your doctor before adopting my personal opinions on skin care or health.
FDA Disclaimer: The advice & statements on this blog have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. Any information on this website is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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