Gel Manicures with Unsafe Products Can Cause Nerve Damage

Nerve damage can result from many events, such as car accidents, construction site accidents, or physical trauma. But you wouldn't think that it's possible to suffer nerve damage from something as seemingly benign as a manicure. Unfortunately, this cosmetic procedure has been reported to cause nerve damage in some instances.

The Dangers of "Gel Manicures"

Nerve injuries are being linked to a specific type of manicure known as a gel manicure, which is growing in popularity. This involves the sanding down of nails using a vibrating electric file and the application of a mixture that's designed to hold nail polish longer and prevent chipping. The "gel" solidifies when the nails are placed under an ultraviolet lamp.

The problem occurs when the rough sanding also scrapes away layers of skin on the fingertips, allowing the chemicals in the mixture to penetrate the epidermis. Single-component liquid gels do not contain harmful chemicals. However, many salons are providing manicures using combinations of acrylics, glues, and powders and marketing them as gel manicures.

Many of these "faux gel" products can contain harsh chemicals such as ethyl methacrylate (EMA) or methyl methacrylate (MMA). Since the early 1970s, MMA has been associated with contact dermatitis as well as nail damage and deformity. And the Methacrylate Producers Association has warned that EMA might be just as harmful as MMA.

Warning Signs for Improper Gel Manicures

HealthNewsDigest.com has released some warnings signs that a salon may be using harmful products. 

• The products are in unmarked containers.
• The technician can't tell you what is in the products.
• The gels do not easily soak off in solvents that are designed to remove acrylics.
• You see redness, swelling, or any other signs of infection. 

To learn more about nerve damage and how it can occur, visit our article library.

Hiring a Chicago Personal Injury Attorney

With serious medical issues such as nerve damage injuries, it's always best to consult a medical professional to help with diagnosis and treatment. If your nerve damage resulted from a gel manicure, retaining the legal services of a Chicago personal injury attorney can help explain your legal options and seek compensation to help with your medical bills and other expenses related to your nerve damage.

You shouldn't have to cope with medical bills or severe or debilitating pain in your hands and arms because of a business owner's negligence. The Chicago personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. will help you monitor your medical expenses and work toward a settlement to cover all of the treatments you need to get your life back on track. Contact us today for a free case evaluation - (312) 263-1080.