The Dangers of DIY Gel Nails: One Creator’s Alarming Experience and the Allergist’s Warnings
A TikTok video by creator @alina.gene has gone viral, showcasing her experience of developing an acrylate allergy from doing gel nails at home. She now experiences severe pain when exposed to acrylates. The creator warns viewers against self-applying nail polish that requires a UV light to cure, explaining that at-home use of gel nails differs from in-salon use due to the higher-quality chemicals and proper training of salon professionals, reducing the likelihood of reactions occurring. While an allergy to gel nails or acrylates may not be life-threatening, it can still have serious consequences such as preventing individuals from receiving lifesaving medical care due to common medical products containing acrylates. An allergist was consulted for insights on the risks associated with DIY gel nails. If you found this story interesting, follow KFF Health News on Instagram @KFFHealthNews for more content. For more information or to submit a story tip, contact Tarena Lofton at tlofton@kff.org or follow her on Twitter @tarena_social.
