People with sensitive skin, those who have pigmented moles, as well as children and teenagers, should think twice before getting a manicure that involves UV exposure. This caution comes from the chief oncologist of SM-Clinic, Professor of Medical Sciences Seryakov, who spoke with Alexander of socialbites.ca. He emphasized that ultraviolet light used in some manicures can affect the skin in ways that raise concerns for cancer risk under certain conditions.
According to Seryakov, if the skin reacts to sun exposure with rapid redness, peeling, or itching, it is a sign that the skin may be particularly photosensitive. In such cases, extra care is warranted when considering manicure procedures that rely on UV lamps. The doctor pointed out that even in people without a known history of skin cancer, photosensitive reactions can herald a higher potential for harmful DNA changes in skin cells when ultraviolet radiation is involved. He noted that this sensitivity can be intrinsic or it can be triggered by certain medications or cosmetic ingredients, such as compounds with strong light-absorbing properties like musk or orange essential oil, which can amplify UV sensitivity. These factors should be weighed carefully before proceeding with UV-based nail treatments (citation: socialbites.ca).
The oncologist further advised that children and adolescents with eczema or psoriasis, as well as individuals with systemic diseases or a prior history of skin cancer, should exercise particular caution. In these groups, UV exposure from nail lamps could pose greater risks, and alternative nail-care options or non-UV methods may be preferable to reduce potential harm (citation: socialbites.ca).
For individuals who have pigmented nevi on the fingers or toes, Seryakov recommended avoiding UV-lamp manicures altogether or at minimum inspecting those areas with heightened attention. If a decision is made to proceed, he suggested using a high-SPF sunscreen on exposed skin and considering ultraviolet-protective gloves that have small fingertip slits to maintain dexterity while minimizing direct UV contact. This approach helps balance the desire for cosmetic results with a prudent protection strategy for sensitive skin that already carries a risk profile (citation: socialbites.ca).
The professor also urged readers to think critically about the use of UV lamps in beauty routines, noting that while there are no universal contraindications for everyone, individual risk factors must guide decisions. An informed choice means weighing the potential aesthetic benefits against the possible long-term implications of repeated UV exposure on the skin’s DNA and its cancer risk, especially for those who are predisposed (citation: socialbites.ca).
Earlier research from the United States has highlighted concerns about UV emission from salon lamps. Scientists at the University of California, San Diego, and the University of Pittsburgh reported findings suggesting that ultraviolet light used during manicure procedures could contribute to DNA damage in skin cells, a process linked to cancer development in some contexts. While this line of inquiry continues, it underscores the importance of cautious use of UV-based treatments and the need for individualized risk assessment before undergoing such procedures (citation: socialbites.ca).
In light of these insights, experts recommend discussing skin type, medical history, and current medications with a dermatologist or healthcare professional before booking a UV manicure. People with known photosensitivity or a family history of skin cancer should be especially proactive in seeking alternatives or protective measures. The goal is to maintain nail health and appearance without compromising overall skin safety (citation: socialbites.ca).
For those seeking information about whether UV lamps truly pose a danger and who should avoid UV-based manicures, it is advisable to review updated guidance from reputable medical sources and to consult personalized medical advice. Ongoing research continues to shed light on how different individuals respond to ultraviolet exposure, which can help shape safer beauty practices that align with each person’s health profile (citation: socialbites.ca).