Acrylic nails can pose serious health risks due to exposure to harmful chemicals and improper care. Some of the most common dangers include:
- Chemical Exposure: Ingredients like methacrylate in acrylic nails can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even respiratory issues when inhaled.
- Nail Damage: Acrylics can weaken and thin out your natural nails over time, making them more prone to breaking or infection.
- Infections: Moisture trapped between the acrylic and your natural nail can lead to fungal or bacterial infections, increasing the risk of long-term nail damage.
Acrylics can be a fun way to express your style, but there are hidden dangers many beauty salons won’t reveal. Choosing safer alternatives at a natural nail salon, like gel extensions or non-toxic manicures, can help protect your health while keeping your nails stylish.
What Are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are a type of artificial nail enhancement. They are made by combining a liquid called monomer with a powder called polymer. Together, these create a hard, plastic-like nail. Many people choose acrylics because they look stylish and last a long time.
The Process of Acrylic Nails
Applying acrylics involves using a liquid and powder mixture. First, your natural nails are cleaned and shaped. A nail technician then adds the acrylic mixture on top. After drying, the acrylic hardens and can be shaped and painted. The process gives you long, strong nails, perfect for nail art and designs.
Why People Choose Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are popular for several reasons. They are durable and can last for weeks without chipping. They also come in many different designs, so people love them for special events or just to show off their creativity. Plus, if your natural nails break easily, acrylic nails can give you added strength.
Health Risks of Acrylic Nails
While acrylic nails can look great, they also come with risks. Some of the health problems include chemical exposure, nail infections, and even breathing issues.
Exposure to Chemicals
Acrylic nails use chemicals like methacrylate, which can harm your skin and lungs. Methacrylate is known to cause allergic reactions and can be dangerous if inhaled for long periods. The CDC outlines the dangers of methacrylate, like the increased risk of dermatitis
Allergic Reactions
Some people get skin irritations or allergic reactions from acrylic nails. Common symptoms include itching, redness, and swelling around the nails. If this happens, it’s best to remove the nails right away and see a doctor.
Respiratory Problems
When acrylic nails are applied or removed, tiny dust particles can be released into the air. Breathing in these particles can irritate the lungs, especially for people with asthma or breathing problems. Nail technicians who work with acrylics daily are more at risk of these health issues.
Respiratory Issues from Acrylic Nail Dust
Studies show that nail technicians exposed to dust from acrylic nails face increased risks of respiratory issues. Research by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that long-term exposure to this dust could lead to chronic bronchitis and asthma-like symptoms. Proper ventilation in salons can help reduce these risks.
Nail Damage from Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails may look pretty, but they can hurt your natural nails in the long run. Wearing acrylics for too long or not taking care of them properly can weaken the nails underneath.
Thinning of Natural Nails
One of the biggest problems with acrylic nails is how they thin out your natural nails. When a nail technician files and buffs your nails to apply acrylics, it removes layers of your natural nail. Over time, this can make your nails weak and fragile. Thin nails are more likely to break or split.
Risk of Infection
Acrylic nails can increase the risk of nail infections, especially if they aren’t applied or removed correctly. Gaps between the acrylic and your natural nail can trap moisture, which can lead to fungal or bacterial infections.
A woman in Texas even had to go to the hospital after a bad infection from her acrylic nail. You can read more about her experience in this Fox News interview. This shows how important it is to go to a licensed nail technician and make sure they use clean tools.
Common Nail Health Risks of Acrylics vs. Safe Alternatives
| Health Risk | Acrylic Nails | Safer Alternatives (Gel X, Regular Care) |
| Nail Thinning | High risk | Low risk |
| Risk of Infection | Higher due to chemicals | Minimal with proper care |
| Chemical Fumes | Harmful | No harmful fumes |
| Impact on Pregnancy | Dangerous | Safe, non-toxic |
Related: The Importance of Nail Health: How Your Local Nail Salon Can Help
Acrylic Nails and Pregnant Women
If you’re pregnant, acrylic nails might not be the safest choice. The chemicals in acrylic nails can affect both you and your baby. It’s important to be aware of the risks.
Fumes and Dust Risk
Acrylic nails give off fumes and dust that can be harmful, especially for pregnant women. The chemicals in the fumes, like methacrylate, can irritate your skin and lungs. Breathing in these fumes for a long time might not be safe for the baby either. Pregnant women should avoid nail salons with poor ventilation or skip acrylics altogether during pregnancy.
Safe Nail Options for Pregnant Women
The good news is there are safe options for keeping your nails looking beautiful while pregnant. Non-toxic nail polishes and gel nails are safer alternatives. These products don’t have the strong fumes and the toxic dust that come with acrylics. You can also opt for regular manicures using natural nail polishes that are free of harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene.
Environmental Impact of Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails not only pose risks to your health, but they also impact the environment. The process of applying and removing acrylics creates dust and waste that harms the planet.
Acrylic Nail Dust Pollution
When you file acrylic nails, tiny particles are released into the air. These dust particles can settle in your home or salon and even make their way outside. Over time, this dust can pollute the environment, affecting air quality and the surfaces it lands on. It may seem like a small amount, but in busy nail salons, the dust adds up quickly.
Non-Biodegradable Waste
Acrylics are made from plastics that don’t break down easily. This means they end up in landfills where they contribute to the growing problem of plastic waste. Acrylics are not biodegradable, so every set of nails worn adds more plastic to our environment. This waste can harm wildlife and pollute our ecosystems.
Safe Alternatives to Acrylics
“The best nail care is the one that enhances natural beauty without sacrificing health.” – Dr. Nadia West, Dermatologist
Luckily, there are safer, non-toxic alternatives to acrylics. At Velvet Files, we offer options that are kinder to both your health and the environment.
Gel Nail Extensions
One safe alternative are Gel nail extensions. These extensions offer the same beauty and durability as acrylics without the harmful chemicals. Gel X is a non-toxic option, making it safer for both you and the environment. Plus, Gel X nails don’t require harsh filing or buffing, so they’re gentler on your natural nails too.
Comparing Acrylic Nails vs. Gel Extensions
| Feature | Acrylic Nails | Gel X Extensions |
| Chemical Exposure | High (contains harmful chemicals) | Low (non-toxic ingredients) |
| Application Process | Requires strong chemicals | Gentle application with minimal filing |
| Durability | Strong but harmful to natural nails | Strong and safe for natural nails |
| Environmental Impact | Non-biodegradable waste | Eco-friendly, safer disposal |
Regular Manicures and Pedicures
Another great option is sticking to regular manicures and pedicures. At Velvet Files, we offer natural manicure treatments that keep your nails strong and healthy. You don’t need extensions to have beautiful nails. With regular care, your natural nails can look stunning without the risks that come with artificial nails.
Related: Non-Toxic Nails: The Secret to Healthier, Happier Hands (and a Healthier Life)
Final Thoughts
Acrylic nails may be popular, but the dangers they pose to your health and the environment are serious. From nail damage to chemical exposure, the risks are real. On top of that, acrylics contribute to pollution and plastic waste.
At Velvet Files, we believe in offering safer, non-toxic nail care options. Whether it’s Gel X extensions or regular manicures and pedicures, you can still have beautiful nails without the risks. Take the next step toward healthier nail care by booking an appointment at Velvet Files today! Explore our safer, eco-friendly alternatives to acrylics, and enjoy beautiful nails that are both stylish and safe.
