Los Angeles – Many people turn to press-on nails as a quick and inexpensive way to complete a manicure, and the popularity of this quick manicure soared during the pandemic when nail salons were closed. But doctors warn that using press-on nails comes with potential health risks.
Corona resident Daniella Roa used to go to nail salons until the pandemic shut them down, then she started trying out press-on nails at home.
“It's like an acrylic nail that's already been made, you just press it on with glue,” she said.
After a while, Lore says, the instant polish she made just stuck to it.
“It saves me money and it's a quick fix,” Lore said.
Press-ons have skyrocketed in popularity during lockdown.
“A lot of people will do this because they want their hands to look clean,” said Dr. Daisy Dodd, an infectious disease specialist at Kaiser Permanente Orange County.
But underneath that beauty, something pretty ugly could be growing, Dodd said.
“Patients will describe their nails as green,” she says.
A common infection called Pseudomonas aeruginosa can thrive in the moist environment between your natural nail and your artificial nail.
“You shower and you wash your hands, so water gets in there and bacteria can grow,” Dodd said.
The problem isn't the nails or the glue — doctors say they're safe unless you're allergic to them — the problem is how you apply the nails.
“If you don't cover the nail completely, it leaves an open pocket that can allow moisture and water in and cause an infection,” she says.
If you notice that your nails are turning green, soak them in water and salt, or warm water and vinegar.
“It seems to be working,” Dodd said.
If the discoloration doesn't go away within a few days, contact your doctor. Another infection to watch out for is paronychia. It occurs when the skin around the nail is damaged and bacteria gets in. Watch for redness and swelling.
“This is definitely an infection that needs to be treated with antibiotics,” she said.
Dodd's advice is: “Don't leave fake nails on for more than two weeks, and when you do remove them, be gentle to avoid tearing or splitting your nail.”
Lore recommends not mixing or combining different kits and following the instructions carefully.
“If you're not 100% sure about press-on nails and how to care for and apply them, it's best to go to a manicurist who knows what to do,” says Lore.
Copyright © 2024 KABC Television, LLC. All rights reserved.