You settle into the salon chair, surrounded by the calming sounds of nail tools. But beneath the polished surface, a hidden danger lurks: getting your nails done might put you at risk of getting skin cancer.
Two years ago, I took a break from regular nail salon visits because my trusted technician moved out of state. I filled the void with press-on nails for a year before deciding it was time to find someone new. That’s when I met my current nail technician, who did something that caught me off guard. She offered me sunscreen to apply to my hands before getting started.
While I had never experienced this before, I went along with it. I was curious but not curious enough to ask why. I loved the final result of my nails, but what really impressed me was what I learned when I got home and did a deep dive into the reason why she gave me sunscreen. Here’s what I discovered:
The UV light dilemma
Recently, a woman shared her story about getting skin cancer, which was a result of being exposed to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from lamps at nail salons. These lamps are commonly used to dry and cure gel, acrylic nails and BIAB nails. While the amount of UV radiation emitted by these lamps is generally considered safe, the cumulative effect of repeated exposure can be alarming. Research by the MD Anderson Cancer Centre has shown that the UV light used by these lamps, known as UVA, can penetrate your skin deeply and cause your skin cells to age prematurely, and potentially cause skin cancer.
The sunscreen slip-up
To make matters worse, many clients fail to apply sunscreen before their appointment, leaving their skin vulnerable to the harsh effects of UVA radiation. For black women, melanin provides some protection against damage from UV radiation, but the American National Institute of Health says it does not completely eliminate the risk.
Despite the growing awareness about cancer, some nail technicians are still unaware of the importance of sunscreen in protecting clients’ skin.
Sunscreen protects against ultraviolet (UV) radiation by creating a barrier on the skin’s surface which scatters or reflects UV rays. For radiation absorbed, sunscreen converts it into heat before releasing it from the skin.
Additional health concerns
Beyond the risks associated with UV nail lamps, your nail salon visits may also expose to other health hazards. Chemical fumes from nail polish removers and other products can cause respiratory problems. Inhaling dust from nail filing can also irritate the lungs, while fungal and bacterial infections can arise from unsanitised equipment. Additionally, skin irritation and allergic reactions can occur due to certain nail products.
Protecting yourself
Protecting yourself from these potential health risks is not as difficult as you might think. Choosing a salon that uses LED lamps, which emit less UVA radiation than traditional UV lamps, is a good starting point. Applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before your appointment is also crucial. Opting for nail products that are free from harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP (dibutyl phthalate) can further minimise your exposure to toxins. Finally, ensuring that your salon follows proper sanitation procedures can help prevent infections.
Be aware of the potential health risks associated with nail salon visits and take proactive steps to protect yourself so you can enjoy a safe and relaxing experience. So go ahead, indulge in that perfect manicure, but ensure you’re making safe choices– your health will thank you!
