Having perfectly polished nails is a must for some, and while many turn to nail salons to get “perfected” results, not everyone has the time or money to be spending on this service.
For this reason, DIY nails have become increasingly popular, especially with the help of influencers on social media and TikTok. And I’m not just talking about nail polish!
That’s right, people are now attempting gel and acrylic nails at home. The question remains, is it safe?
The short answer is, “yes and no”, and here’s why!
Bacteria grows in that shiny top coat
Although doing your polish at home rules out the potential for cross-contamination with a nail fungus carrier, there is still room for bacteria to grow. In gel top coats specifically, they are known to have mineral and soy oils to help with that ever-lasting shine. The downside? These oils are known for bacterial growth, which can lead to nail fungus.
Most DIYers don’t know the proper technique
If you have gotten your nails done in the past, I am sure you experienced this once before. Your gel (otherwise known as shellac) or acrylic nails “lift”, which leaves things like your hair or food getting caught between your natural nail and the fake nail.
This is a risk that happens with even top-rated nail artists… Can you imagine how much-lifting DIYers are getting themselves into? With the improper application of nail products, DIYers are creating the perfect trap for bacteria to develop, which can again, lead to nail fungus.
Most DIYers don’t understand chemical safety protocols
So the shiny top coat and improper technique didn’t sway you away from DIY gel and acrylic nails?
The truth of the matter is, nail products are made up of chemicals, and without being professionally trained, you are at risk of damaging surrounding skin.
Common symptoms that people experience from not using the products (chemicals) correctly are:
- Pain of the nail bed
- Redness, swelling or peeling skin which is normally associated with pruritic periungual and eczematous dermatitis
- Onycholysis
- Weakened nails that turn brittle
Nail fungus treatment
At the end of the day, your best bet for DIY nails is a simple polish!
However, if you were experimenting with salon-quality products and ended up with fungus, changes to your nails, or skin irritation, we invite you to book an appointment with skin care physician Dr. Shehla Ebrahim!
To book a consultation for nail fungus treatment, CLICK HERE. Dr. Shehla Ebrahim can’t wait to help you reclaim your nail health.