Scientists in Argentina have recently discovered that popular UV LED nail lamps on the market may cause molecular-level damage to the skin. According to research, these nail lamps can alter the structure of common molecules in the skin after just a few minutes of exposure. Although the long-term health effects and cancer risks associated with these devices are not yet fully understood, the research team is already urging for heightened public awareness.
The research team, led by María Laura Dántola from the National Scientific and Technical Research Council of Argentina (CONICET), tested common skin molecules under a standard nail lamp. They found that after just four minutes of exposure, all tested compounds showed changes, which raised concerns about the alteration of their biological functions.
This study has been published in Chemical Research Toxicology journal and confirms that the radiation emitted by nail lamps is enough to degrade molecules in the skin. Although today’s LED devices emit lower doses of UVA radiation compared to earlier versions, they still emit a certain amount of UVA radiation, and the effects on skin health require further research.
A study in 2023 indicated that nail lamps might damage the DNA of skin cells, potentially leading to mutations that could increase the risk of cancer. Meanwhile, a review in 2024 emphasized Long-term and repeated use of UV nail lamps may pose a low risk of skin cancer., though the current evidence remains weak and limited.
In response to the growing concerns about skin health among nail enthusiasts, experts have provided some preventive measures: when getting gel nails, consider wearing gloves that only expose your fingertips; or apply broad-spectrum sunscreen on your hands (pure SPF products do not protect against UVA); you might even want to think about using traditional nail polish combined with a fan or hair dryer to dry your nails, instead of UV equipment.
Additionally, researchers are calling for stricter regulations on UV lamp manufacturers, emphasizing the need for clear labeling of relevant warnings and preventive recommendations. This will enable users to make informed decisions after understanding the potential harmful effects.
