Gel polish burns while drying? Experts reveal why
Why gel polish burns during drying (photo: Freepik)
While curing gel polish under a UV or LED lamp, many people experience a sharp burning sensation. This feeling is not just a minor inconvenience – it can be linked to important processes that affect nail health, reports The Mirror.
Why does gel polish burn during curing?
Manicurist Iram Shelton explained that the sensation of intense heating or burning when curing gel polish usually occurs with thicker gel products. When the gel is exposed to LED or ultraviolet light, a chemical reaction called polymerization occurs, and that’s what generates the heat.
This can be painful for some people. In particular, it can happen if the layer of gel is too thick – the reaction occurs quickly, causing a rapid buildup of heat that reaches the nail bed.
In addition, this sudden burning may be caused by incorrect product application or curing time.
Don't panic because it doesn't automatically mean your nails are damaged. However, repeated or extreme heat spikes can cause discomfort, sensitivity, and in rare cases, damage to the natural nail if it's been over-filed or already weakened. It's definitely something to flag with your nail tech if it happens often, the expert added.
How to avoid burning
There are several things you can do to prevent burning during gel polish curing.
Apply gel polish in thin layers
The thicker the layer, the more heat is generated during polymerization. Apply the gel polish and base coat as thinly as possible.
Use the lamp’s “low heat” mode
Many modern lamps have a low heat mode – it gradually increases power, reducing the risk of burning.
Start curing gently, not at full power right away
Insert your fingers into the lamp partially or only for a few seconds to allow the gel to begin curing more slowly. Then finish curing completely.
Use high-quality materials
Cheap gel polishes or base coats may contain aggressive ingredients that intensify the reaction and burning. It’s better to use trusted brands.
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This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
