UV and LED curing lights have become essential tools for achieving a long-lasting, glossy manicure, but some nail technicians are concerned about potential allergies to these lights after encountering clients who report side effects during the curing process.
This article aims to demystify this issue, reveal the nature of these reactions, and explore why they are likely linked to the products used and personal sensitivities, rather than an allergy to the light itself. By understanding the underlying causes and implementing mindful practices, nail professionals can increase the safety and comfort of their clients and provide a positive experience for those who enjoy the benefits of gel-based manicures.
Important Considerations for UV/LED Nail Curing Sessions
When a client experiences discomfort or side effects during a UV or LED nail curing session, it’s important for nail technicians to understand the possible underlying causes. While it’s rare for someone to be directly allergic to UV or LED light, various factors related to the curing process can trigger a reaction. Here are four key points to consider that can help professionals effectively address and alleviate these sensitivities.
Understanding Photosensitivity in Nail Care
Photosensitivity: Some people have conditions, such as polymorphous light eruption or lupus, that make their skin unusually sensitive to UV rays. These conditions can exacerbate the skin’s reaction to UV rays from the sun or UV nail lamps. Being aware of these conditions can help nail technicians provide safer and better service to clients with these sensitivities.
The effect of phototoxicity on nail treatment
Phototoxic reactions: Certain medications and topicals can cause phototoxic reactions, making the skin more sensitive to UV light. This increased sensitivity means that while regular sunlight may not cause a reaction, the concentrated radiation from a nail lamp can cause an adverse reaction. Understanding these triggers is essential to managing client care during nail treatments.
How to spot an allergic reaction to nail enhancements
Allergic reactions: Misunderstandings can occur when a client has a reaction to a nail treatment. Often what is thought to be a reaction to the UV/LED light is actually an allergic reaction to ingredients in the gel polish or acrylic. This is especially likely if the nail product is not fully cured and the skin is in contact with the reactive substances for an extended period of time. Informing your client about these potential allergens can help prevent misdiagnosis and allow appropriate measures to be taken.
Recognizing Heat Sensitivity During UV/LED Curing
Thermal Sensitivity: Discomfort or a burning sensation during UV/LED curing is often caused by the heat emitted by the lamp, especially if the gel layer is too thick or the lamp intensity is too high. Understanding the curing process and adjusting it for heat-sensitive clients can improve the overall experience and safety of their nail treatment.
Improving the safety of UV/LED nail treatments
So, while it is not an allergy to the light itself, various factors related to exposure to UV/LED during nail treatments can cause discomfort and reactions. To minimise these issues and avoid removing vital layers of skin with efile, it is always best to ensure proper application technique and use high quality, hypoallergenic products. efile removes the last precious layers of skin that are ultimately important to your health.
If your client has a known photosensitivity or skin condition, or is undergoing chemotherapy or immunotherapy, it may not be wise to continue the treatment and it is best to recommend an alternative nail treatment that does not require UV curing. There are many other options available, so you should be prepared to seek out and learn new techniques.
The Importance of Discernment in Nail Product Selection
In a world where artificial nail products are too beautiful to matter, it’s important to know when to say no, understand why, and offer alternative options.
