At LMC Footcare, we are committed to helping you maintain healthy and beautiful feet. Today, we want to talk about shellac nail polish and why it might be causing more harm to your nails than you realize.
Shellac nail polish has become a popular choice for many due to its numerous appealing qualities. It’s easy to understand why so many people are drawn to it, but it’s also important to recognize the potential downsides that come with its use. By understanding both the benefits and the risks, you can make an informed decision about whether shellac is the right choice for your nail care routine.
The Appeal of Shellac Nail Polish:
- Quick Drying: One of the main attractions of shellac nail polish is its quick drying time. In today’s fast-paced world, not everyone has the luxury of waiting for traditional nail polish to dry. Shellac dries almost instantly under a UV or LED light, making it an incredibly convenient option for those with busy schedules.
- Durability: Another significant advantage of shellac nail polish is its durability. Unlike regular nail polish, which can chip within a few days, shellac can last up to three to four weeks without any signs of wear. This longevity means fewer touch-ups and more time enjoying beautifully polished nails.
- UV Exposure: The key difference between shellac and regular nail polish lies in the application process. Shellac requires curing under a UV lamp or LED light, which exposes your skin to UV rays. This exposure can lead to several issues:
- Skin Aging: One of the most concerning effects of UV exposure is accelerated aging of the skin around your nails. The skin on your hands is delicate, and repeated exposure to UV rays can cause premature aging, resulting in wrinkles and age spots.
- DNA Changes:While rare, there is also the potential for UV exposure to cause DNA changes in your skin cells. These changes can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Although the exposure from nail curing lamps is relatively low, it’s still a risk factor to consider.
- Harmful Removal Process: The process of removing shellac nail polish is another area of concern. Unlike regular nail polish, which can be removed with a simple swipe of nail polish remover, shellac requires a more intensive removal process.
- Acetone Soaking:To remove shellac, you need to soak your nails in acetone. Prolonged exposure to acetone can dry out your nails and the surrounding skin. This can leave your nails feeling weak and brittle.
- Scraping and Peeling: The removal process often involves using a metal tool to peel and scrape off the polish. This can strip away the top layer of your nail bed, leading to painful nails and further weakening them. Repeated removal can cause significant damage, leaving your nails dry, brittle, and prone to cracking.
- Regular Check-Ups: Routine visits to a footcare specialist can help catch any potential issues early. Our specialists can provide professional advice tailored to your specific needs, ensuring your nails remain healthy and strong.
- Proper Removal Techniques: If you enjoy the look of shellac nail polish but are concerned about the potential damage, our specialists can help. We offer safe and effective removal techniques that minimize the risk of damage to your nails. Proper removal is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your nail bed and preventing painful, brittle nails.
- Nail Treatments: If your nails have already been damaged, we offer a range of treatments to help restore their health. From moisturizing treatments to strengthen brittle nails, our specialists can recommend the best course of action for your specific situation.
- Limit Shellac Use:While shellac can be a convenient and durable option, it’s best to limit its use to special occasions rather than making it a regular part of your nail care routine. This reduces the frequency of exposure to UV rays and the potential damage from the removal process.
- Moisturize Regularly: Keep your nails and the surrounding skin well-moisturized. This helps to combat the drying effects of acetone and keeps your nails strong and flexible.
- Use Sunscreen: If you choose to use shellac nail polish, apply sunscreen to your hands before curing your nails under a UV lamp. This provides an extra layer of protection against harmful UV rays.
- Seek Professional Care: Regular visits to a footcare specialist can help ensure your nails remain healthy. Our team at LMC Footcare is here to provide expert advice and treatment for all your nail care needs.
Book an Appointment with LMC Footcare
If you have concerns about your nail health or are experiencing any issues, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. We are here to help you keep your nails healthy and strong.
At LMC Footcare, we are committed to providing the highest quality care for your feet and nails. Whether you need routine maintenance or specialized treatment, our team of experts is here to support you every step of the way.
You now have 3 convenient ways to book your appointment:
- Book online by clicking the “Book Online” button below
- Call our footcare team directly at 1-844-562-3668 (feet)
- Email our footcare team directly at [email protected]
