Check Your Shellac: Manicures Requiring UV Lamps Are Slightly Cancerous

» By Danielle Kwateng @danispecialk on March 8, 2013, 13:59pm

shutterstock_126218150Manicure via ShutterStock

 

It’s no secret that nail polish and certain types of manicures have always been seen as a little sketchy to our health. If you were out of the loop, read this.

But a new study from the Skin Cancer Foundation basically solidifies our fears. The organization found that UV lights used for drying polish gives a slight risk of  cancer. Their statement is below:

 

Research has shown that ultraviolet (UV) radiation-emitting devices are carcinogenic to humans. Although studies have shown that the skin cancer risk associated with UVR-emitting nail lamps for gel manicures is very low, it is not insignificant. The risk, according to anecdotal research, is greatest for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the second most common skin cancer. An estimated 700,000 cases of SCC are diagnosed each year in the US, resulting in approximately 2,500 deaths. SCC is mainly caused by chronic UV exposure and is very common on the hands and around the fingernails.

 

There’s no need to freak out. For those of you who live in the nail shop, they suggest putting SPF on your hands before going under the light. And for those of you who do your manis at home, peep a few of our favorite organic nail polishes.

 

Nail Polish3SpaRitual Nail Lacquer
Everything down to it’s reusable glass is non-toxic and environmentally-friendly. Made in Italian the polishes come in a variety of colors.

 

Nail Polish 2Zoya Nail Polish
This brand boasts being formaldehyde and DBP free; these two chemicals have been linked to skin irritation and fatigue.

 

Nail Polish 1Gaiam Nontoxic Nail Polish
A holistic living brand sells this biodegradable polish that comes in six calm colors.

 

-Danielle Kwateng
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Comments

  • MacingFacing

    Wonderful article Style Blazer. I am a nail polish nut and I was curious about the UV heating lamps and wanted to get one for a faster dry. I guess I will have to stick to the quick dry nail polish and blowing on my hands. Better safe than sorry.