Apr 16, 20232 min read

Tips for Manicures and pedicures. Is nail gel safe?

💢Tips for gel polish

Wear fingerless UV protective manicure gloves.(available at Felly Medical Aesthetics Clinic

Your fingertips and nail beds are still exposed, but you are much more protected

Apply broad spectrum waterproof sunscreen to hands or feet before heading to the nail salon.

Sunscreen alone may not be enough to protect against UV from the lamps so bring your gloves!

Alternate between gel and regular manicures/pedicures

💢Tips for dip polish

If you choose dip powder polish as another option for a long lasting manicure, do the following:

Select a dependable nail salon. Nail stylists use the same jar of acrylic powder for multiple customers and this increases the chance that the powder harbors bacteria.

While the risk of infection is low because acetone is used during most manicures and pedicures and acts as a steriliser. I still recommend that my patients use caution.

Skip the gel topcoat after a dip polish so you don’t have to use the UV lamp.

💢Other tips for manicures and pedicures to consider

Air dry your nails after regular polish and avoid the UV nail dryers.

Avoid having your cuticles pushed back or removed to minimize infections.

Lightly buff or file your nails – over buffing can weaken your nails and make them thinner and more brittle.

Ask the salon if their equipment is sanitized between customers (autoclaves or dry-heat sterilizers are ideal).

Bring your own drill bits, nail file, buffer, and pumice stone.

Avoid shaving within 24 hours of a pedicure to minimize infections.

Beware of LED lamps which also give off UV light

Follow these recommendations and enjoy a gel manicure occasionally!