Gel nail booth can increase your chances of skin cancer

The dermatologist explains how to protect the skin from the damage caused by exposure to UVA rays

Many women have longed for beautiful, long and shiny nails. In this context, gel nails and gel polishes have gained popularity due to their durability and less need for maintenance and care. However, there may be risks associated with the practice.

Recently, the French National Academy of Medicine issued a worrying alert: the drying technique used in this process requires the use of equipment that emits UVA LED light, which can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.

“The active ingredient responsible for hardening nail gels it is activated by UVA LED light. However, repeated exposure to this type of radiation generates free radicals and damages the DNA of skin cells, thus inducing mutations linked to the development of skin cancers, such as carcinoma,” explains dermatologist Dr. Paola Pomerantzeff, member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology.

Protect yourself with the use of sunscreens

According to the expert, in addition to the increased risk of skin cancer, exposure to UVA rays also accelerates the early appearance of signs of aging in the region. This is because there is a degradation of collagen fibers and elastin, responsible for the compactness and elasticity of the skin tissue.

“To prevent any problem, it is essential that, half an hour beforehand, you apply a sunscreen with SPF 30 on your hands at least. In this way, the skin of the hand will be protected from UVA rays from the nail booths”, advises Dr. Paola, who she also explains that, ideally, sunscreen should be applied to the hands daily to also protect the skin in the region from solar radiation. «In these cases it is essential to reapply the product every 2 hours», she points out.

How long to wear gel nails?

Dr. Paola Pomerantzeff warns that maintaining the gel nails for long periods as a way to reduce the use of these booths with UVA light is not a good solution. The duration of gel nails is 15 days, but it is common for them to be used for longer periods, sometimes up to a month. However, this habit can harm the health of the natural nail, making it severed and weakened.

It is recommended to keep the gel nail only for 15 days and, after removing it, do not reapply it right away. “Let the nails ‘breathe’ for about 15 days or at least a week, during which time hydration is more than welcome. There are specific products for nails for this, but you can also use your own hand moisturizer,” says the doctor.

Pay attention to the signs

Dr. Paola Pomerantzeff reminds us of the importance of regular self-examination of the skin, not only of the hands, but of the whole body. “Self-examination contributes to the early diagnosis of skin cancerwhich increases the chances of successful treatment considerably,” he says.

Therefore, keep in mind moles that fit the ABCDE rule:

• A of Asymmetry, when the two sides of the lesion, if divided in half, are different;
• b Irregular border, when the mole does not have a defined shape;
• w of Color, since the suspicious moles have darker and lighter tones in the same lesion;
• d in Diameter, if the mole is greater than 6mm;
• AND of abnormal evolution, which may be a change in growth, change in color and shape, itching or bleeding.

To the notice injuries who meet any of these specifications, the most important thing is to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

By Paola Amoroso

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.