Can UV Lights At The Nail Salon Raise Your Skin Cancer Risk?

The risks are low, but you should still take precautions.

A gel manicure is a popular form of self-care. It feels good to be pampered. And it’s fun to choose your color and let your nail tech work their magic. Before you put your fingers under the UV nail lamps, a little preparation can make a difference. Here’s what to know.

How do UV nail lamps impact skin cancer risk?

When you get a gel manicure or pedicure, you’ll put your hands (or feet) under small UV lights so your polish can cure. Seems easy enough, right? Those small lights dry your nails by emitting a type of UV light called UVA.

Over time, exposure to UVA rays can stress out your skin.

“UVA radiation leads to aging of the skin and can lead to sun damage over time,” says Grace Kosik, MD, dermatologist at Geisinger. “UVA can go into deeper layers of the skin and cause damage there.”

Sun damage can prematurely age your skin. It can also cause a sunburn. And it can dry your skin, making it itchy.

It’s more than just potential skin damage. Repeated exposure to UV light, especially UVA, can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

How? UV radiation impacts your cell DNA. That DNA damage can lead to mutations that may cause cancer.

The risk is low

While these lights can increase your risk of developing skin cancer, an occasional mani/pedi isn’t a bad thing.

“At this time, most studies suggest that the cancer risk from UV exposure at the nail salon is low, but not zero,” Dr. Kosik says.

How to protect yourself

Want to reduce your exposure to UV light and lower your risk? Start by coming prepared.

Use SPF

Sunscreen matters. If you’re planning to get a gel manicure, don't forget the SPF. Slather your hands with some sunscreen 30 minutes before your appointment. Don’t forget to apply to your fingers and wrists.

For maximum protection, Dr. Kosik suggests using SPF 30 or higher.

Try fingerless gloves

Another way you can protect your hands? Try a pair of fingerless gloves. These specialized gloves are made from UV-blocking fabric, or UPF. These cover the hands all the way to the bottom of your nails. Wear them like you would regular gloves.

Not all gloves are created equal. Before you make a purchase, check the label to find the UPF level. Like SPF, the higher the protection rating, the better.

Ask for LED lights

Some salons and spas offer LED lamps to cure nails instead of UV. “LED bulbs emit weaker UV rays, and may be a better option for some people,” says Dr. Kosik.

Before you make an appointment, ask your salon if LED bulbs are available.

Opt out of gel

If you want to remove the risk factor, try forgoing gel altogether in favor of a traditional manicure. “Plain manicures that air dry are an option,” notes Dr. Kosik.

You may also consider another type of nail service, like dip powder or acrylic nails.

Check yourself

Whether you’re a gel manicure devotee or not, taking care of your skin is key. Talk to your healthcare provider if you notice any changes to your skin or nails, especially:

Black, brown or red lines on your skin or nails
Dark skin around your nail
Moles that change color or shape
Nails lifting from the nail bed

Your provider can assess any changes and determine next steps.

Do what you love

Dr. Kosik reminds that you don’t have to stop your beloved nail treatments entirely. “If you’re getting a gel manicure, use protective tools,” she says. That way, she notes, you can focus on enjoying yourself and feeling your best.