UV nail lamps linked to skin cancer risk, dermatologist warns
Dr. Neera Nathan, a dermatologist, warns against using hybrid and gel manicures without proper protection. Even a brief, 20-minute exposure to a UV lamp can lead to DNA mutations, increasing the risk of cancer.
A dermatologist with many years of experience warns women
In a social media video, Dr. Nathan references research published in the journal "Nature." She has encountered cases of skin cancer in women who regularly used UV lamps for nail styling.
She noted that, as a dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, she has diagnosed and treated skin cancer on the hands and fingers of women whose only clear risk factor was long-term exposure to UV lamps from years of acrylic or gel manicures.
Take care of your health: Steps to take before using a UV lamp
The risk of cancer isn't the only concern with gel and hybrid manicures. Dr. Nathan notes that nails treated in this way can become brittle. As a result, she advises steering clear of UV lamps.
However, if you choose to continue with this method despite the risks, it's crucial to apply creams with SPF 30+ and wear protective gloves during nail drying. This helps minimize the harmful effects of UV radiation on your skin and nails.
The dermatologist advises applying SPF 30+ to the entire hands at least 20 minutes before using the UV lamp. Fingerless gloves featuring a special UPF filter should be worn during the drying process.
