Gel manicures and false nails ‘causing allergy epidemic’

WOMEN treating themselves to long-lasting gel manicures or copying the false nails of reality TV stars are putting themselves at risk of an ‘allergy epidemic’.

A survey of 742 patients at NHS dermatology clinics found almost one in five had experienced adverse effects from acrylic nails applied in salons – while one in six had suffered a reaction to a salon gel polish treatment.

At the same time, tests on attendees at the clinics found 2.4 per cent had an allergy to at least one type of (meth) acrylate chemical – key ingredients in acrylic nails.

The research was conducted by the British Association of Dermatologists, which warned the harsh chemicals used in fashionable nail treatments are ‘causing a contact allergy epidemic in the UK’. (Meth) acrylates are commonly used in the graphic and printing industry, aircraft manufacture and adhesives. However, the Association said it is their use in the burgeoning number of high street nail salons and the subsequent widespread exposure which is causing alarm among experts.

Sensitisation happens when the chemicals come into direct contact with the skin and is most likely to occur if nail technicians are not properly trained or when people apply a product at home themselves. Allergic reactions may involve the nails loosening or a severe red and itchy rash, and on very rare occasions breathing problems could also occur.

The Association’s Dr David Orton said: ‘The truth is there will be many women with these allergies who remain undiagnosed, because they may not link their symptoms to their nails, especially if the symptoms occur elsewhere on the body.’