UV Nail Lights Controversy

The NY Times recently published an article on a study that stated UV nail lamps used in nail salons caused cancer. The study published by the Archives of Dermatology looked at only two women. I was a bit disturbed by these reports for a couple of reasons. First of all, I was under the impression that the amount of UV output given off from a nail lamp was equivalent to the sun that streams through a window. Second of all, all good scientists know that two incidents of anything isn't enough to prove any theory. I was happy to see a report published by three experts in the nail field, Doug Schoon,, Paul Bryson and Jim McConnell who eloquently refuted the claims made by the early study. This report points out the numerous errors and misstatements made and concludes that nail lights are indeed safe.

If you are concerned about your exposure or that of your clients, apply sunscreen to your clients' hands.

Fake "Gel Manicure" Linked to Nerve Damage

I have an issue with sensationalist reporting on the news. A client came in to the spa the other day and let one of our technicians know she had seen a report on the news stating Axxium gel lacquer caused nerve damage. This is how false rumors spread.

I immediately wanted to know about this report as we use both OPI Axxium and CND Shellac in the spa. I did a quick search on the internet and found the original report by Consumer Reports. A woman named Jane Ubell-Meyer received what she thought was a "gel manicure" at a local salon where a drill being used on her slipped and damaged her finger, the damaged finger was then dipped into an unknown white chemical powder leaving Ubell-Meyer suffering from pain for months. After visiting many doctors including an orthopedist, dermatologist and chiropractor, a neurologist was able to discover the culprit...a fake gel manicure gone wrong.

A gel lacquer manicure does not include mixing any powders, glues or other chemicals. The gel lacquer is brushed onto the nail and is odorless. The natural nail does not need to be roughed up with a hand held drill or filed like a traditional acrylic service. If you have any questions about the service you are receiving, ask the service provider. If the surroundings are less than sanitary or you have concerns...don't get the service.