We all know how happy beautiful nails can make you feel, but sometimes an unexpected allergy can arise due to the substances in gel nail products. What exactly is in these products, how do these unpleasant reactions occur, and what is a safe alternative? We'll take you through it and answer all your questions in this blog!

Why acrylates in gel polish often cause allergies

Acrylates are chemicals that are often found in gel nails and artificial nails, such as ethyl methacrylate (EMA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA). They make your nails strong and shiny, but unfortunately, they can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. Think of redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes even blisters around the nail. Not fun!

More and more reports on this subject are appearing in the news. For example, in this news article, the NOS warned of the increase in women developing allergies to gel nails, which can later cause health problems, such as reactions to artificial hips or dental fillings. This is because the same acrylates are also used in some medical and dental materials.

How do allergies to acrylates develop?

Allergies to acrylates usually develop after repeated contact with the skin, especially if the substances do not cure properly. This can happen, for example, if the UV lamp is not used long enough or if something accidentally gets on the skin during application. And yes, once you are allergic, it is unfortunately often permanent.

The safety of nail stickers

The story of Stickynailz begins with the owner herself. Several years ago, she developed an allergy to acrylates due to years of using gel nail products. This experience gave rise to the idea of offering a safe alternative to gel nails. That is why, from the outset, a conscious decision was made not to offer gel nail stickers that need to be applied in combination with a UV or LED lamp.

Stickynailz nail stickers are made from regular nail polish and do not contain any acrylates. This makes them a safe choice for people who are sensitive to these substances and want to avoid becoming allergic to acrylates in the future. The nail stickers contain other polymers, which are also used in other cosmetics and cause less sensitivity. However, some people with sensitive skin may still react to them, although this is rare.

Frequently asked questions

• Can I be allergic to nail stickers? It's rare, but sometimes people can be sensitive to the polymers in nail stickers. Also check our ingredients list to see if the substance you're reacting to is listed.
• What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction to nail products? They resemble other allergic reactions: redness, itching, swelling, or even blisters around the cuticle and nail bed.
• How do I know if I have an allergy? If you're experiencing the symptoms listed above, talk to a dermatologist and consider an allergy test.

Conclusion

Are you allergic to acrylics or gel polish, or do you think you might be? Then nail stickers are a perfect—and more affordable—alternative to switch to. At Stickynailz, you'll find a wide range of safe and colorful nail stickers. This way, you can enjoy well-groomed nails without worrying about a (future) allergic reaction.

Check out our webshop and take advantage of our Stickydeal: buy 3 and get 2 free!