Weekly nail appointments can be unpleasant, time-consuming, and even expensive if you want to keep your nails looking nice. A different alternative for your nails might well be the best course of action, especially if your manicure specialist suggests it. Why not try gel nail polish, which may last up to two to three weeks and leave your nails looking gorgeous and shiny? Although gel nail polish is not particularly terrible, the way it is applied and the chemicals it contains are to its detriment. Gel nail polish uses UV light to cure and dries faster and lasts longer than normal nail polish, which takes at least an hour or two to dry.

Risk associated with gel nail polish

Nail or skin damage: Although gel nail polish dries up very rapidly and can be lovely to look at, it contains several chemicals that can be detrimental to your nails or skin. Gel nail polish contains chemicals like acrylate and methacrylate, which cause allergic reactions like rash (contact dermatitis and hives). If gel nail polish is not removed properly, it may peel, split, or break your nail, and it may take a while for your nails to heal. Another effect of gel nail paint is that it makes your nails feel dry and brittle; this occurs when you apply another coat without giving your nails time to heal. Before you apply gel nail polish once more, your nail needs to be free from damage for at least two to three weeks.
Highs risk of UV (ultraviolet) rays exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV (ultraviolet) rays can be exceedingly damaging and can induce DNA damage that can result in cancer. Despite significant health risks, several experts are of the opinion that this can only occur with frequent UV exposure.

Tips for maintaining healthy nails after a gel manicure

To avoid aging skin and skin cancer, regularly apply some sort of SPF sunscreen to your hands before or after getting a manicure. Your hands are shielded from UV rays by the sunscreen.
Refrain from picking at the gel on your fingernails because doing so could seriously harm them. Use a secure technique to take off the gel polish instead. When getting gel nail paint removed, avoid leaving it on for too long and instead soak the nail with acetone.
To avoid dryness, brittleness, or peeling nails, make sure your hands and nails are always hydrated with a hand lotion or oil. To keep your nails hydrated, use an oil like cuticle oil at least twice each week.
Take a break from gel nail polish on your nails. Give your nails 2-4 weeks between applications of gel nail paint because frequent use is actually bad for your nails.

Alternatives to consider instead of gel nail polish

Apply conventional nail polish or nail polish that isn’t poisonous.
Examine dip powder.
Examine press-on nails.
Nail sticker.
Silk wrap nail.
Gel nail extension.
Shellac manicure.

Tips to keep your natural nails without nail polish

Refrain from eating or picking at your nail cuticles.
Trim hang nails with care.
When washing dishes, wear gloves.
Consume a balanced, healthful diet.
To maintain healthy nails, apply cuticle and nail moisturizer.
Regularly trim your fingernails.
Shape the edges of your nails with a file.
Always keep your nails short to prevent dirt from getting into

Summary

One of the best alternatives to traditional nail polish is gel since it lasts longer and is more attractive. Even while gel nail polish isn’t all that horrible, you should still think twice before getting it done because of how it’s applied, the chemicals it contains, and the potential risk of exposure to UV rays.