1. Allergy Concerns:
Gel nail formulas frequently use methacrylate monomers—such as HEMA —to create durable, long-lasting coatings. However, if these compounds come into contact with skin, especially during application, they can trigger allergic reactions. Symptoms may include itching, redness, swelling, and in severe cases, even peeling of the skin. Such reactions are relatively common in gel polish users, as the chemicals in methacrylates can sensitize the skin over time.
To minimize these risks, choosing a polish free from methacrylate monomers offers a safer alternative. Look for options that use gentler, skin-friendly polymers that still provide the durability and shine associated with gel polishes.
2. Removal Damage:
The Gel polish removal process typically involves soaking nails in harsh and drying acetone, leaving nails brittle and prone to splitting. This is often followed by scraping and drilling, which can cause further damage and lead to extremely weakened nails over time. While some salons try to adopt gentler methods, nail damage is almost inevitable due to the strong molecular bonds gel formulas make with nail keratin fibers in order to get that long lasting gel-effect. To avoid this, look for polish options that do not bind so strongly to nail keratin, and therefore can be removed without long acetone soaking times in acetone or aggressive scraping and drilling.
3. Nail Thinning:
Gel polish is designed to tightly bond with nail keratin fibers, providing a long-lasting finish. However, this intense molecular bonding to nail fibers, especially in the cases of repeated gel applications and removals, can extremely thin the nail plate over time, leading to brittle nails that peel and break easily. This effect may be particularly noticeable for those who wear gel polish consistently, as the nail’s natural recovery process is interrupted by constant reapplication.
4. Higher Costs:
Salon quality gel manicures tend to be quite expensive, requiring specialized products, curing equipment, and a longer application process. With many individuals needing salon visits every 2-3 weeks for reapplication, the costs can add up quickly, making gel polish a pricey option.
5. Environmental Impact:
Gel polishes often contain non-biodegradable synthetic ingredients and petrochemicals, which can be harmful to the environment when washed away or disposed of improperly. Additionally, many of these products are packaged in materials that aren't recyclable, contributing further to waste. For those looking to reduce their manicure’s environmental impact, choosing eco-friendly polish options—formulated with biodegradable, renewable, plant-based, and/or upcycled ingredients and packaged in recyclable or refillable containers—can be a meaningful step. Such alternatives offer the same salon-quality finish while aligning with sustainability goals, helping to minimize harm to both personal health and the planet.
The Safe Alternative: Green Flash LED Gel Polish from Manucurist
💅 Gentle, Allergen-Free Formula: Green Flash polish is free of methacrylate molecules (like HEMA) and uses safer, less volatile polymers for a durable, gel-like finish without allergy risks.
🕒 Quick & Easy Removal: The gentle polymer bonds protect against keratin damage, and allow for one-minute, acetone-free removal—no scraping, drilling, or damaging acetone needed.
🏠 Affordable At-Home Kits: Manucurist’s Green Flash LED Gel Polish Discovery Kit offers up to 30 at-home manicures for the price of one salon visit!
🌱 Sustainable Ingredients: Green Flash replaces synthetic components with upcycled, plant-based ingredients from renewable sources like corn, sugarcane, wheat, and yucca.
♻️ Transparent Recycling: Manucurist provides clear recycling information on their website to help consumers dispose of products responsibly.
