The Hidden Dangers of Nail Extensions: What Your Manicure Isn’t Telling You

Who isn’t into trends nowadays, right? With the growing influence of social media, everyone knows what’s trending in a particular month. People from almost all age groups are following these trends, and one such trend is the use of nail extensions.

Over the past few decades, the nail cosmetics industry has expanded significantly, with nail salons becoming a go-to destination in the world of beauty and self-care. New products, techniques, and decorative trends are emerging almost daily, highlighting the industry’s rapid evolution.

The nail care market is booming worldwide and is expected to more than double in size over the next decade, reflecting its growing demand and popularity (The Global Nail Care Market, 2022). ^[1]

These products might give you beautiful nails, but they can also harm your health and weaken your natural nails. These procedures are often performed by beauticians who may lack sufficient knowledge about the importance of maintaining a sterile environment and the potential risks involved, which can ultimately lead to complications.

Let’s explore the potential hazards linked to harsh chemicals in nail extensions. 

The Allure of Nail Extensions

The appeal of nail beautification lies in the perception of an ‘ideal’ nail, which often shifts with changing trends. Typically, attractive nails are described as having an oval shape, a glossy and translucent surface, a tip that extends beyond the nail bed, neatly maintained cuticles, and rounded edges that create the illusion of long, slender fingers or toes. ^[2]

Gel polishes, acrylic applications, nail extensions, and elaborate artistic designs have gained widespread acceptance.

Many people use nail cosmetics to cover up nails affected by infections or inflammation, as these conditions can lower self-confidence.

Nail Anatomy

A basic understanding of nail anatomy is essential to recognize how different procedures can impact its structures.

The nail unit consists of the nail plate, the matrix, and the nail bed. The nail plate, the visible hard part of the nail, is composed of keratin and covers the distal phalanges of the fingers. It is formed within the matrix, located at the base of the nail beneath the skin, where the cells responsible for nail growth are produced. Once formed, the plate rests firmly on the nail bed, a structure rich in blood vessels and nerve endings, which supply nourishment and sensory function to the nail. ^[3]

Hidden Health Hazards: To get those flawless nail extensions, one must also be mindful of the possible side effects of harsh chemicals.

1. Chemical Exposure: Acrylic and gel nail extensions use chemicals such as methacrylates, formaldehyde, and toluene. Regular exposure to these substances can lead to skin irritation, allergies, and even breathing problems.

   Nail aestheticians face a higher risk of chemical exposure. Since nail technicians often spend long hours in salons, they are regularly exposed to dust and chemical fumes, which can irritate the throat, especially in spaces with poor ventilation. In addition, long-term exposure to cyanoacrylates may increase the risk of developing occupational asthma. ^[2]

2. Weakening of Natural Nails: Improper application of gel polishes or incorrect removal techniques can lead to Onycholysis, the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed. Excessive filing, drilling, or buffing can weaken the nails, making them soft and prone to bending, a condition known as Hapalonychia.

3. Fungal and Bacterial Infections: Practices such as cutting the cuticles, probing beneath the nails and inadequate sterilization of instruments can increase the risk of infections such as Paronychia (an infection or inflammation of the skin around the nail), Onychomycosis (a fungal infection of the nail that causes thickening, discoloration, and separation of the nail from the nail bed), and even bacterial infections like Pseudomonas, leading to various complications. ^[2]

4. Allergic Reactions: Repeated exposure to acetone, alcohol-based products, and harsh cuticle removers containing sodium or potassium hydroxide, especially when paired with vigorous rubbing, may lead to irritant reactions. ^[2] These harmful chemicals can also lead to allergic contact dermatitis and contact vitiligo, which may be difficult to cure.

5. UV Light Exposure: Gel nail extensions need to be hardened under UV lamps. Repeated exposure to this light can speed up skin ageing.

6. Systemic Risks: Conditions affecting the nail plate, matrix, bed, and surrounding tissues are generally associated with systemic disorders in an individual. For example, nail changes may signal conditions such as psoriasis, lichen planus, and thyroid disease, underscoring that nail health can sometimes reflect broader systemic health issues.

Safer Alternatives:

• Give your nails a break: After 2–3 weeks of gel polish, leave at least a week without applications so the nails can recover and stay strong.

• Choose professional removal: Let trained experts take off gel or acrylic nails to avoid unnecessary damage like nail separation.

• Follow safe techniques: Ask the professionals to use soaking solutions and to carefully use milling tools to reduce the risk of injury.
  

• Don’t ignore the warning signs: In case of any pain, redness, swelling, or discoloration of nails or surrounding areas, consult your physician immediately. Early medical advice helps catch infections or allergies before they worsen.
  

• Proper training of nail technicians: With proper knowledge about the structure of nails, accidental harm to the nail bed or matrix could be prevented. Also, make them aware of the importance of maintaining an aseptic environment with proper cleaning and sterilization of all salon tools before and after every use.

Conclusion

Nail art has become a popular trend on social media and in fashion, offering a creative way for people to express themselves while caring for their nails. Using proper techniques and high-quality products is key to maintaining nail health. Both clients and nail professionals should make thoughtful, informed decisions to stay safe. It’s also wise to test new products on a small area first, follow correct nail preparation methods, and consult a professional when needed. In the end, looking good shouldn’t come at the expense of your health; mindful practices help keep nails both beautiful and safe.

References 

1. The global nail care market is expected to grow rapidly for the next ten years. (2022, August  26).

2. Tyagi M, Singal A. Nail cosmetics: What a dermatologist should know! Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2024;90:178–85.

3. Anna Chuiun. (2025). Integrating Nail Esthetics with Clinical Knowledge: A Contemporary Perspective. The American Journal of Medical Sciences and Pharmaceutical Research, 7(05), 29–35.

_MSM