Abstract
Gel nail polish (GNP) has recently gained worldwide popularity. We have conducted
a comprehensive summary of the complications of GNP through a literature search using
the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases to identify eligible contributions.
Complications were divided into mechanical and traumatic nail disorders, allergic
contact dermatitis (ACD), and ultraviolet (UV)–induced lesions. A total of 12 contributions
were included, identifying 88 patients, all of whom were women. Six of the reports
described ACD (62 cases, 70.5%), 3 concerned mechanical nail damage (23 cases, 26.1%),
and 3 reported UV-induced skin lesions (3 cases, 3.4%). ACD developed an average of
30 months after GNP initiation. The most frequent culprit allergens were 2-hydroxypropyl
methacrylate and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate. Pterygium inversum unguis was the most
frequent mechanical lesion (n = 17). Squamous cell carcinoma was reported in 3 cases.
The delay between UV exposure and the diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma ranged
from 11 to 15 years. Scant literature and a lack of education among consumers and
beauticians have led to the uncontrolled use of GNP. The principle of managing nail
cosmetic problems is prevention through education. There is a need for understanding
the processes involved and the associated complications to facilitate appropriate
treatment and safe use.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: July 27, 2022
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