Acrylic Nails & Skin Reactions: Identifying Potential Allergies

Question
For many years I have had acrylic nails with gel put on over them. Back in October I had such severe itchiness and peeling of the skin around my nails that I had them taken off. My fingers seemed to improve although my nails barely grew. About a week ago I decided to try again but this time I had them just use gel, no powder. Everything seemed fine and I haven't had the itching but my fingers are starting to peel again, even under the nail. Do you think I should just give up on having nails put on? I am so upset about this because I hate my hands without the nails!! Also, should I go back to the salon again and have them take them off again or do you think it is something I can try on my own? I appreciate any suggestions you may have!!

Answer
Unless your nail tech is very sloppy with his/her application method, it's probably not the gel that's causing the peeling. This doesn't necessarily mean that you're not allergic to the gel, or that you won't develop sensitivity to gel down the line. The Gel should never come in contact with your skin, which is one reason why so many people find they are able to successfully wear gels, even after developing sensitivities to other products.

In this case I suspect you are reacting to one of the other products used during the application process. Possibly a bonding agent, or cleanser that is applied before the gel application, or the cleanser that is used to remove the tacky inversion layer left after the gel has cured.

Another culprit that many people overlook is whether or not the gel lamp has been cleaned. If the inside of the lamp is not being wiped down with disinfectant between clients there can be a build up of product where your hands rest that could be causing problems as well.

Try paying close attention to how many, and what type of products are coming in contact with your skin and see if eliminating-- or severely reducing-- your exposure to those has a significant effect. If not, it might be time to explore the possibilities in hypoallergenic nail products. Wraps or "tip and dip" methods that use cyanoacrylate resins as the primary building agent.