Gel allergies occur when the immune system reacts negatively to certain chemicals present in gel nail products, leading to an allergic reaction. These reactions are often caused by ingredients like methacrylate found in many gel nail polishes, especially when the products aren't properly cured under UV light or if they come into contact with the skin.

Allergies to gel nails can be distressing and uncomfortable, but understanding the causes and recognising the symptoms is the first step toward relief and prevention.

They often develop due to repeated exposure to certain chemicals in gel products, particularly if these chemicals come into contact with the skin during application or removal.

The main culprits are uncured or improperly cured gel, poor-quality products, or an application that doesn’t avoid contact with the skin.

Several factors can increase your risk of developing an allergy:

• Incorrect Application: If the gel touches the skin regularly during application.

• Incomplete Curing: If curing lamps don’t cure the gel properly.

• Frequent Exposure: Regular improper application of products containing known allergens like HEMA (hydroxyethyl methacrylate) can gradually cause sensitivity.

• Skin Sensitivity: Those with sensitive skin are more prone to developing allergies.

Symptoms of a gel allergy manifest around the nails and fingers, and can vary from person to person.

Here’s what to look out for:

• Redness and inflammation: The skin around the nails and fingertips can become red and swollen.

• Itching: Intense itching in the areas where the gel or chemicals have come into contact with the skin.

• Blisters: Small, fluid-filled blisters may appear around the cuticles, fingertips and underneath the nail plate.

• Burning or stinging: A sensation of heat or pain, often felt soon after gel application.

• Hives or rash: Raised, itchy welts or rash can appear on the hands and sometimes spread to other areas of the body.

• Peeling or flaking skin: Skin around the nails may peel or flake off.

• Onycholysis: This is the separation of the nail from the nail bed.

In rare and more severe cases, gel allergies can affect other areas of the body.

• Swelling of the eyes and face: Some people experience swelling in their eyelids or face due to the spread of allergens.

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing: This can occur if the allergens trigger a respiratory reaction, although it’s quite uncommon.

• Generalised rash or eczema: A rash may appear on other parts of the body, such as the neck, arms, or face.

• Tingling or numbness: Some individuals report a tingling or numb sensation in the fingers or hands.

• Pain or tenderness: The area around the nails may become tender to the touch.

If you experience ANY of these symptoms stop using the products IMMEDIATELY. Discontinue using gel nail products until a medical professional can determine the cause.

Consult a Dermatologist: A medical professional can help confirm whether you have an allergy and suggest appropriate treatments.

Avoid Scratching: Resist the temptation to scratch the area, as it can worsen the irritation.

Moisturise: Use a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturiser to soothe the skin.

Wait: You must wait for your entire nail to regenerate itself before reapplication of nail product. It can take 3 to 4 months for your nail to grow out. The amount of time it takes is different for each person.

Once your skin has healed and you have given your natural nails the time they need to grow out completely, you can explore alternatives and treatments like the Gel Reintroduction Plan.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to significant health issues and have permanent life-long health implications.

At The Hampshire Manicurist, we exclusively use Bio Sculpture, a trusted, premium brand known for its safety and health benefits, especially for those with gel allergies. Here’s why Bio Sculpture is the best choice:

HEMA-Free Formula: Specific Bio Sculpture products are formulated free from HEMA, the most common allergen in gel products.

Nourishing and Strengthening: The formula helps protect and nourish natural nails, encouraging strength and growth.

Non-Toxic and Vegan: Bio Sculpture is free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP. It’s also cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.

Healthier Nails: The products are designed to keep your nails healthier and stronger.

Long-Lasting: Bio Sculpture gels are durable, offering chip-free wear for up to 3 weeks without damaging your natural nails.

Bio Sculpture has been making high-quality gel products since 1988, and since then have been ensuring the highest quality products for everyone, even those who have experienced allergy symptoms.

Use Cuticle Oil Regularly: Massage cuticle oil into your nails, cuticles, and the area between the cuticle and top knuckle with pressure. This helps stimulate blood flow and oxygen to the nail matrix, encouraging growth.

Daily application: Use a nourishing oil (such as Jojoba, Almond, or Vitamin E oil) at least once or twice a day for best results.

Keep Nails Moisturised: Moisturise your nails and surrounding skin to prevent dryness and brittleness, which can slow growth. Use hand creams or nail-strengthening balms.

Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated from the inside helps your nails stay strong and grow faster.

Maintain a Healthy Diet: Incorporate foods high in biotin, such as eggs, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens. Biotin supports keratin production, which is essential for nail growth.

• Include citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens (for Vitamin C), along with almonds and sunflower seeds (for Vitamin E) to support nail health and growth.

Take Nail Growth Supplements: Consider biotin or collagen supplements, which are known to promote nail growth.

Protect Your Nails from Damage: Avoid harsh chemicals: When cleaning or doing dishes, wear gloves to protect your nails from chemicals and excessive water exposure, which can weaken them.

Don’t use nails as tools: Avoid using your nails to open cans, pick at things, or as tools to prevent breakage.

Avoid Biting or Picking at Nails: Biting your nails can damage the nail bed and cuticle area, slowing down growth. Keep your nails short especially if you tend to bite them.

Trim Regularly: Trim your nails regularly to prevent breakage and splitting. Even though it seems counterintuitive, this actually helps them grow stronger in the long run.

Keep Your Nails Clean: Regularly clean under your nails to prevent infections, which can hinder nail growth.

By following these steps consistently, you can stimulate nail growth and improve the overall strength and health of your nails.

You should wait between 3 to 4 months minimum from the last allergy symptoms to disappear completely before starting the Gel Reintroduction Plan.

This is to ensure you have fresh and untouched nail plates to start your gel journey again.

It is important to avoid applying gel before the wait time is up as the contact with the chemicals will compromise the chances of success and the 3 to 4 month wait will have to be restarted.