We all love the long-lasting, salon-quality look of gel nails. But for some, that perfect manicure comes with an unexpected downside: an allergic reaction. Certain ingredients in gel polish can trigger irritation, discomfort, or even more severe symptoms. So, what causes these reactions, and more importantly, how can you protect yourself while still enjoying gorgeous nails?
What causes a acrylate allergy?
Most gel allergies are caused by acrylates, a group of chemicals that help the gel harden under a UV or LED lamp. HEMA (Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) and 2-HEMA are well-known allergens commonly found in gel polish products, but other acryl-related ingredients can also contribute to allergic reactions. At Pop of Color Amsterdam, we avoid using HEMA & 2-HEMA in our gel manicures and topcoat.
How to recognize it?
An allergic reaction to acrylates can take several forms. Common symptoms include:
-
Redness and swelling around the nails
-
Itching and blisters on the skin
-
Peeling or brittle nails
-
In more severe cases: eczema on the hands or even elsewhere on the body
These reactions occur when the skin comes into contact with allergens in gel polish. Liquid gel poses the highest risk because it can easily end up on the skin by accident, gel nail wraps poses a significant lower risk as it is already partially cured (not liquid anymore).
If you notice redness and irritation around your cuticles after applying gel polish or wraps, it’s important to remove it immediately. Use a gentle remover and keep your hands well-moisturized. If the reaction is severe or persists, consult a dermatologist.
How to prevent it?
While the risk of an allergic reaction can never be completely eliminated, gel nail wraps are partially cured and no longer liquid and therefore poses a low risk if you apply it correctly. Our topcoat on the other hand is liquid, so if you want to minimize risk we recommend skipping the topcoat. There are several things you can do to minimize it:
✔ Avoid direct contact with the skin – Ensure that the gel nail wraps and and especially the topcoat do not touch your skin. Use a clean wooden stick or brush to remove any excess polish before curing it under the lamp.
✔ Be cautious with the topcoat – Our manicures are partially cured, which lowers the risk, but the topcoat remains liquid. If you want to be extra careful, please skip this step.
✔ Follow the correct curing times – Cure the gel nail stickers under the lamp for at least 120 seconds. Repeat this for the topcoat if you choose to apply it, or cure it for another 120 seconds to be sure.
✔ Be mindful of past allergies – If you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to acrylates, we recommend avoiding our manicures and topcoat altogether.
Acrylate allergies are frustrating, but fortunately, there are ways to reduce the risk. At Pop of Color Amsterdam, we take this seriously and avoid as many known allergens as possible. With the right precautions, you can safely enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting manicure!
#Pop of Color Amsterdam #gel nail stickers #gel nail wraps #gel polish stickers #gellak stickers #gel manicures #nagel stickers #gel nail manicures
