An allergic reaction to nails? We know all about it! This problem is being reported increasingly often, and having it is very annoying. Having a nail allergy is anything but fun. It can have a negative impact on your daily life. Your allergic reactions range from mild discomfort to severe, painful irritations.
Therefore, in this blog article, we delve deeper into the symptoms, causes, and treatment of allergic reactions of the nails and provide tips to prevent them.
What causes an allergic reaction of the nails?
The allergic reactions are caused by exposure to allergens, which are found in, among other things, cosmetic products, detergent, or food. Below, we have compiled an overview of the most common triggers of allergic nail reactions:
1. Gel and Acrylic
Nail products such as gel nail polish and acrylic nail polish often contain chemical substances that can cause allergic reactions. The chemical compounds and resins in, for example artificial nails can irritate the skin around the nails and cause allergic symptoms.
2. Formaldehyde
Forma-what? We are happy to explain what formaldehyde is!
Formaldehyde is a preservative and hardener that is often used in nail polish, nail glue, and nail polish removers.
This substance can cause painful reactions on the skin and under the nail for some people.
3. Waxing
Some nail products contain waxing, which can cause allergic reactions on the nails in people with sensitive skin. An allergy to this can range from mild irritation to severe skin rash and blistering.
4. Rubber
Rubber gloves are often worn during nail treatments to protect the hands. However, some people may be allergic to the latex in rubber gloves. In some cases, this results in allergic reactions upon contact with nail products.
5. Metal nail accessories
And finally, can metal nail accessories, such as files and nail clips, cause allergic reactions in people with a nickel allergy. Nickel is a common ingredient in metal nail accessories and can cause skin irritation and rashes.
Nail products from Herome
At Herome, we strive to ensure that everyone can enjoy beautiful nails. That is why we carefully formulate our products, so that even those with a nail allergy can show off their nails.
Symptoms of allergic reactions of nails
Allergic reactions in your nails can cause various symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Redness of the skin around the nail;
- Itch;
- Swellings;
- Painful feeling around or under the nail;
- And in some cases, there may also be blisters or skin rash; to arise.
How to deal with allergic reactions of the nails
If you suspect you have an allergic reaction to nails, it is important to avoid contact with the suspected cause. This may mean that you need to switch to hypoallergenic nail products or that you have to completely stop using certain nail products or artificial nails.
Prevent an allergic reaction
Prevention is better than cure! Therefore, choose (1) hypoallergenic nail products without harmful chemicals.
It is also important to (2) take regular breaks from artificial nails, nail hardeners or nail polishes to give your nails enough rest.
In addition, (3) wearing gloves when using chemicals is an effective way to reduce exposure to allergens. Think, for example, of cleaning gloves, so that you optimally protect your nails from chemicals and a possible allergic reaction.
When to see a doctor for your nails?
If the symptoms of allergic reactions of the nails persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a doctor. A doctor can identify your specific allergy and prescribe the correct treatment, such as antihistamines or other creams to relieve the symptoms.
In short, allergic reactions of the nails can cause a lot of discomfort and pain. However, with the right precautions, a negative reaction can be prevented and (if necessary) treated.
If you have an allergic reaction under the nail, do not hesitate to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Ultimately, nail care is not just about them looking beautiful, but being healthy nails also essential for your overall well-being.