LOS ANGELES (KABC) — Many people turn to press-on nails as a quick, inexpensive way to get a polished look. The popularity of these quick manicures soared when nail salons were closed during the pandemic, but doctors are warning that their use comes with potential health risks.
Daniela Roa of Corona was a regular at nail salons until the pandemic forced them to close. Then she decided to try press-on nails at her 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 mentioned that DIY instant polish was a bit of a dead end.
“I just started saving money and it's a quick fix,” Lore said.
Press-ons have become more popular during lockdown.
“A lot of people will use this method because they want their hands to look clean,” said Dr. Daisy Dodd, an infectious disease specialist at Kaiser Permanente Orange County.
But underneath all that beauty, Dodd said, something very ugly could be growing.
“Patients will tell you their nails are green,” she says.
A common infection called Pseudomonas aeruginosa can grow in the moist environment between your natural and false nails.
“You're taking a shower, you're washing your hands, and that's where the water gets in and can cause bacteria to grow,” Dodd said.
The problem isn't with the push-in nails or the adhesive. Doctors say they are safe unless you develop an allergy. The question is how to attach the push 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 your nails turn green, soak them in water and salt or warm water and vinegar.
“That seems to work,” Dodd said.
If the discoloration doesn't go away within a few days, see a doctor. Another infection to be concerned about is called paronychia. It occurs when the skin around the nail becomes damaged and bacteria gets in. Watch for redness and swelling.
“This is definitely an infection that needs to be treated with antibiotics,” she says.
Dodd's advice: “Don't leave nail tips on for longer than two weeks. When removing nail tips, be gentle to avoid tearing or tearing your nail.”
Don't mix and match different kits and follow the instructions carefully, says Lore.
“If you're not 100% sure about nail press-ons, how to care for them, and how to apply them, the best thing to do is go to a nail tech who knows how to do them,” Lore says.
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