In and of themselves and when applied properly, acrylic nails are safe. What contributes to the "danger" to clients is repeated exposure to the chemicals on the skin. Most of the chemicals used to create artificial nails are acrylic-based. Certainly they would be dangerous if ingested, but it is not likely that any significant amount of the products can go through the nails into the bloodstream. The danger is when products are applied improperly. Extension products that do not fully cure or harden, whether acrylics or gels, can cause an allergic reaction. Another concern is when the products come in repeated contact with the skin. It is important, as a nail technician, to prevent products from touching client's skin. Do not be overly alarmed, though, if some product touches the skin; it is only through repeated exposure that the harm is done. And while there are no components in the products used to create artificial nails that cause bacterial and fungal infections of the nails, you must make sure that your clients care for their nails so they do not develop these types of problems.
Health
More FAQ
What is psoriasis?
What is psoriasis?... read more
What effect does cold weather have on the nails?
What effect does cold weather have on the nails?... read more
What causes grooved nails and how can I treat them?
What causes grooved nails and how can I treat them?... read more
What causes fungal infections and how should I treat them?
What causes fungal infections and how should I treat them?... read more
What are green nails and how do I treat them?
What are green nails and how do I treat them?... read more
My client's nails are constantly lifting away from the nail bed. What causes this? How can it be treated?
My client's nails are constantly lifting away from the nail bed. What causes this? How can it be treated?... read more
My client often has white spots on her nails. What causes this?
My client often has white spots on her nails. What causes this?... read more
I have a client with brittle nails. What causes this and what should I do about it?
I have a client with brittle nails. What causes this and what should I do about it?... read more
I have a client who recently began having an allergic reaction after her salon visits. What could be causing this?
I have a client who recently began having an allergic reaction after her salon visits. What could be causing this?... read more
Does gelatin strengthen weak nails?
Does gelatin strengthen weak nails?... read more
I have an elderly client with fungus on one foot only. Is that normal?
I have a client who is an elderly gentleman. On his right foot all his toenails are perfect and on the left foot all the toenails have fungus. I have never seen this. Usually I see fungus on the big toe or on a few toes per foot. I was wondering what you thought of this.... read more
One of my clients has deep indentations in her nails. Should I refer her to a doctor?
One of my clients has deep indentations in her nails. She never gets artificial nails — just manicures. She told me she has a bit of arthritis. What may have caused these deep indentations? Should I refer her to a doctor?... read more
