A gel manicure is one of the most popular nail treatments available today. But can you get a gel manicure while pregnant?
Yes, but remember to check whether the chemical methyl methacrylate monomer (MMA) is utilized because it ought to be avoided (pregnant or not). To ensure that all of the chemicals are gone, wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
Keep reading and learn more about getting a gel manicure while pregnant.
What is a Gel Manicure?
Gel Manicure are a manicure with polishes that form a hardened shellac like finish on your natural nails, while still allowing them to breath and provide a long-lasting manicure.
They require a three-step procedure that includes brushing a base coat, nail polish, and topcoat over your natural nails before curing each coat for between 30 seconds and two minutes under a UV light.
In contrast to regular nail polish, gel polish hardens after curing and resists chips. Numerous gel manicures can be worn for two to three weeks without peeling or chipping.
Can You Get a Gel Manicure While Pregnant?
There is no risk to you or your unborn child from the chemicals in acrylics and gels.
The smell in a nail salon may irritate you or make you feel nauseous because pregnant women have a keener sense of smell.
The answer to whether can you get gel nails while pregnant seems to be a yes, but if you feel unsure for any reason, you can always speak to your health care provider.
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Safety Precautions for Gel Manicure While Pregnant
Being pregnant is a time to reflect on what you put on or near your body and to be a little bit more critical of it.
Keeping these warnings in mind, don’t be reluctant to discuss a gel treatment with a medical professional. Take your time choosing the ideal location if you want to visit a salon for a manicure. Locate a room with plenty of air and open space where fumes won’t be a problem.
Verify that the salon’s procedures meet your expectations. If you have your own nail tools, you might even want to consider bringing them.
The Removal Process
Some salon gel manicures, which required a light source to cure, may require more remover to get off the layers. Gel polishes require the use of 100% acetone, which Choi warns will dry out nail beds and may be harmful if applied improperly.
If this is concerning, store-bought products (often with “gel” in the title) can typically be removed quickly and with minimal acetone exposure, comparatively speaking.
UV Exposure
It’s important to keep in mind that ultraviolet lamps, particularly those found in salons, can be used to cure nail polish.
While the FDA notes that exposure is typically minimal and isn’t cause for major concern, you might consider applying sunblock before your manicure.5
Consider using a UV-free gel manicure or another type of polish instead of UV-curing since pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive.
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Benefits of Getting a Gel Manicure While Pregnant
First and foremost, the pampering aspect of gel manicures is a huge plus.
Considering the changes your body goes through and the toll they take on your physical and mental health, a gel manicure or hour-long pedicure can ease aches and give you a pretty visual to look at for weeks.
The following are some additional advantages of gel manicures.
They’re Low-Maintenance
Your nails require relatively little maintenance after being painted with gel polish. After washing a sink full of dishes, the cured finishes won’t flake off and are more chip-resistant than conventional nail polishes.
Additionally, the shine endures throughout your daily tasks.
They Dry Fast
You are developing a child. You’re busy, but as soon as the gel cures—or as soon as the gel you purchased hardens and sets—you’re ready to go. And that can take place very quickly (typically with a light source).
Conclusion: Can You Get a Gel Manicure While Pregnant
While some experts say gel manicures are OK during pregnancy, you may feel like there hasn’t been enough research done on the topic.
Some formulations are very new, and not every “gel” works in the same way, or with the same exact ingredients. Therefore, consult a healthcare professional before getting a gel manicure.
Examine the course of treatment and decide if you are ready to proceed. If not, you can still keep your nails looking good with a variety of other polishes.
Read More: How Much is a Gel Manicure?
FAQs
Is It Safe to Do Nails While Pregnant?
Most experts agree that manicures and pedicures are safe during pregnancy. While you’re expecting, you can indulge in some pampering if you visit a reputable salon with high safety standards.
Is UV Nail Light Safe During Pregnancy?
Keep in mind that pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive, so you might want to skip the UV-curing altogether and choose a UV-free gel manicure, or another type of polish.
Is It Safe to Get Acrylic Nails Done While Pregnant?
Although getting acrylic nails is safe while pregnant, you might want to avoid getting them if your nails are weaker than usual.
