Welcome to Our Blog Series: "Debunking Popular Nail Myths!"
In this series, we’ll address common misconceptions about nails and nail services with clear, science-backed answers.
Today, we’re tackling a common myth among expecting mothers and nail technicians: Is it unsafe to get your nails done while pregnant or work in a nail salon during pregnancy? Let's dive into the facts!
Can You Get Your Nails Done While Pregnant?
When your clients discover they're pregnant, one of the first questions they will ask nail professionals is, "Can I keep wearing my nail enhancements during my pregnancy?"
The good news? Yes, it is generally safe!
There is no reason to believe wearing artificial nail enhancements or polish during pregnancy is harmful. All artificial nail coatings, including Gel-X, TiaraX, acrylics (e.g. DIP n' DUO, zBlend - zGel), gel polish (e.g. Cat Eye Gel), and builder gel (e.g. ZEN Builder Gel, T.A.P Gel), polymerize and harden within three minutes. This eliminates the chance of any product penetrating beyond the very topmost layers of the nail plate. The ingredients used to make nail coatings are used widely around the world in thousands of different applications and are among the most widely studied ingredients in the world. The ingredients are NOT considered to create risks during pregnancy.
Precautions for Pregnant Clients Getting Nails Done
While getting your nails done is generally safe during pregnancy, here are some important things to keep in mind:
✔ Ventilation Matters – Ensure that the salon is well-ventilated. Proper airflow will help minimize prolonged exposure to fumes from acrylics, gels, and solvents.
✔ Opt for Pregnancy-Friendly Products – Choose low-odor or hypoallergenic nail products that contain fewer harsh chemicals, which can be gentler during pregnancy.
✔ Ensure Cleanliness and Sanitation – Select a reputable salon that strictly follows hygiene and sanitation protocols to avoid any infections or exposure to harmful bacteria.
✔ Take Breaks – If you feel lightheaded or uncomfortable during the manicure or pedicure, don’t hesitate to take breaks or step outside for fresh air.
What About Pregnant Nail Technicians?
As a nail technician, you may be exposed to nail products on a daily basis. So, is it safe for you to continue working in a salon while pregnant? The short answer: Yes, with the right precautions, it’s generally safe.
Pregnant nail technicians who aren't already working safely will need to make changes in their work routines and pay close attention to the rules of working safely, but this is true regardless of your occupation. While a well-informed physician will usually advise mothers-to-be to avoid alcohol and tobacco, as studies indicate these may cause abnormal fetal development, there are no scientific studies indicating such risks with artificial nail products. To put things into proper perspective, smoking is thousands of times more dangerous than any nail salon service.
10 Tips That Can Help Pregnant Nail Technicians Work Safer:
1️⃣ Use products properly, always precisely follow directions and heed all warnings.
2️⃣ Dispose trash properly; use a trash can with a self-closing lid and empty it regularly throughout the day.
3️⃣ Avoid skin contact with UV curing gels, monomer liquids, adhesives (glues), resins and primers, etc.
4️⃣ Wearing disposable nitrile gloves to minimize the potential for skin contact or exposure to chemicals.
5️⃣ Wash hands frequently; always before servicing any client, eating or touching the face.
6️⃣ Keep all products tightly closed and use covers on dampen dishes to minimize evaporation.
7️⃣ Wear a well-fitted dust mask, preferably one rated as N-95 or equivalent, especially if you use an electric file. Drill oils should also be used to control dusts. Avoid doctor or surgical masks since they aren't designed for use with dust.
8️⃣ Ensure your salon ventilation system is working properly, has been recently cleaned and is supplying an adequate amount of fresh air. Contact a local HVAC company for guidance. Install a "source capture" ventilation system to improve air quality if the salon ventilation is not adequate.
9️⃣ Obtain and review the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) (aka MSDS) for all your products with your doctor.
🔟 Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any work-related symptoms, e.g. weakness, dizziness, light-headedness, or difficulty breathing, etc.
The Bottom Line
With proper precautions, getting your nails done or working in a nail salon while pregnant is safe. If you're unsure or have concerns, always consult your doctor—but there’s no need to give up beautiful nails during pregnancy!
What other nail myths would you like us to debunk? Stay tuned for the next post in this series!