⁣ ⁣ NAIL GEL MANICURES LAMPS : WHAT TO KNOW//⁣ ⁣ 💅🏾Nail gel/shelac provide chip resistant, long durability & a smooth shiny finish that women love. 💅🏾The UVR-light source under which hands or feet are placed for several seconds/mins to harden the polish raises concern for potentially increasing risk of premature aging and skin cancer which are known proven outcomes linked to UVA radiation. ⁣ ⁣ 🛑 Nail lamps emit UVA radiation, one of the most DNA altering, penetrative wavelengths and major culprit in: ⁣ Destroying collagen and elastin causing fine lines & wrinkles ⁣ Hyper-pigmentation through oxidation of melanin ⁣ Skin Cancer ⁣ ⁣ 💅🏾 Worth noting, current studies show NO DIRECT CAUSE & EFFECT relationship between nail lamp use and skin cancer incidence at the moment. Limitations of current studies on the topic point to ⁣ : ⚠️the lack of standardization in time/duration/frequency of exposure to UV lamps across brands or the industry as well as non professional /home use of the devices.⁣ 🛑Some salons use LED lamps which offer less cure times for the nail gel but people should be aware the UVA emitted from such is more intense than even the sun. ⁣ ⚠️A study showed that a strict 8min exposure during one manicure session at a cumulative session of 12 visits was enough for DNA damage to be detected in skin which can easily be achieved by most women. A case report highlights two patients with no personal or family history of skin cancer but having long term exposure to UV nail lights subsequently developing squamous cell cancer on their fingers and hands. This highlights need for more studies in this area. ⁣ ⁣ ::⁣ 👩🏾‍⚕️Research is still evolving when it comes to gel manicures and potential risk of skin cancer. It may take years down the line to prove a direct cause effect link. However, if you get gel manicures frequently, it is better to play it safe and use ✔️ a broad-spectrum, ✔️water-resistant sunscreen with an ✔️SPF of 30 or higher and or ✔️UPF gloves as advised by the American Academy of Dermatology. ⁣ #nails #nailgel #skincare #skincancer #gelmanicure #nailinspo