During pregnancy, a woman's life undergoes radical changes, including multiple physical and psychological transformations, such as aversion to certain foods and swelling in the feet. However, there is another aspect that is not often discussed, which is the changes that may occur to the nails during this challenging stage. As is the case with many aspects of pregnancy, the effect of these changes varies from one woman to another; some women notice that their nails grow quickly and become stronger thanks to hormones, while others suffer from brittle and weak nails. In this article, we will review in Dalili Medical how to care for nails during pregnancy and breastfeeding, to help you maintain the beauty and health of your nails, and overcome any challenges you may face during this period.

What is the importance of nail care during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

 

Nail care during pregnancy and breastfeeding is an essential part of a woman's self-care. During these two periods, a woman's body is exposed to hormonal changes that lead to increased fragility of nails and make them more susceptible to damage. If left unattended, they can become brittle and cracked, which is why many pregnant women notice that their nails are tearing, breaking, or splitting more easily than usual. This can be uncomfortable for the pregnant woman and increases the risk of bacteria and infection on the hands and nails. On the other hand, weak or brittle nails may indicate another problem, such as a lack of iron or biotin in the diet.

Is it safe to get a manicure or pedicure during pregnancy?

 

Manicures and pedicures are generally safe at all stages of pregnancy, explains Dr. Ricki Baldwin, an OB/GYN in Texas. (This is good news, since getting a manicure during pregnancy can help relieve swollen feet and provide much-needed relaxation!) However, that doesn’t mean you can go to any nail salon without taking precautions. Baldwin notes that you should pay attention to the cleanliness and ventilation of the salon. When you’re pregnant, your immune system is less robust than it is at other times, making the risk of infection—especially fungal infections—and exposure to chemicals more serious.

Is gel manicures or pedicures safe during pregnancy?

 

Gel manicure safety is a concern for many pregnant women when considering beauty treatments. For those who don’t know, gel manicures and pedicures are more resistant to chipping than traditional manicures or pedicures. This type of polish uses a special gel that hardens in less than a minute using a UV lamp. Since gel polish contains different chemicals (such as acrylic polymers, including methacrylates) than regular polish (nitrocellulose) and requires exposure to UV light, it’s natural to have some concerns about using it during pregnancy. However, you can probably feel comfortable making this decision.

Is it OK to get acrylic nails while pregnant?

 

They are a type of artificial nails that require you to prepare the surface of your natural nails by filing them down to make them rough. They contain chemicals like methacrylate, which can cause irritation, redness, and swelling around the nail. As for gel manicures, the small amount of chemicals that may be absorbed into the skin or inhaled is not expected to cause problems during pregnancy, according to Romeo. So, can you get artificial nails while pregnant? Yes, you can. However, you should keep in mind that the American Academy of Dermatology discourages the use of acrylic nails, as they can make your natural nails thin, brittle, and dry.

Is a dip manicure safe during pregnancy?

 

Maybe. In a dip manicure, glue is applied to your nails, then they are dipped in colored powder, the excess is removed, and finally a clear top coat is added to seal everything in place for up to four weeks. Dipping powders may contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or calcium pantothenate, but these substances are not well absorbed by the skin, so they are not expected to increase the risk of problems during pregnancy. It is best to avoid inhaling large amounts of chemicals in the air.

Can foot massage induce labor or cause premature labor?

 

While there is no conclusive evidence that foot massage can induce labor, it is important to be cautious. Baldwin notes that “foot massage may be beneficial during pregnancy, but there are precautions to be taken.” She recommends that the massage therapist use gentle pressure and avoid specific pressure points that may trigger uterine contractions. It is also best to avoid foot massage altogether in the third trimester of pregnancy if the massage therapist is not trained in pregnancy-specific massage techniques.

Is it safe to use UV light on nails during pregnancy?

 

Excessive exposure to UV light can cause skin damage or even increase the risk of cancer in the future. However, directing UV rays at the nails for short periods of time does not pose a risk to the skin of the fingers or the rest of the body. It is recommended to wear UV-protective gloves without fingers, use a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), and look for salons that use LED lights instead of UV lights.

What is the safest nail polish during pregnancy?

 

There is no nail polish that is considered 'perfect' for pregnancy. If the ingredients are generally considered safe for adults, they should not pose any additional risks during pregnancy when used as directed. Some pregnant mothers prefer to take extra precautions.

Is nail polish safe during pregnancy?

Is acetone-based makeup safe during pregnancy?

Although the strong smell of acetone may indicate the presence of toxic substances, using nail polish remover that contains acetone during pregnancy is considered safe, provided there is good ventilation. After using nail polish remover, it is recommended to wash your hands or feet to reduce the amount of acetone that can be absorbed by the skin. If you feel dizzy from the fumes, it is best to take a break and get some fresh air.

Is inhaling nail salon fumes dangerous during pregnancy?

 

Baldwin points out that nail salon fumes can be harmful during pregnancy if the necessary precautions are not taken. Therefore, it is important to perform nail care services in well-ventilated areas or near an open window. It is also recommended to avoid inhaling nail polish and nail polish remover directly.

**Health risks of using nail polish**

 

**Cancer and allergies** Most nail polish products contain compounds that are considered toxic and harmful, in addition to other ingredients that may have negative effects when used for long periods. Among these compounds, formaldehyde is considered one of the factors associated with an increased risk of cancer. There are also chemicals that negatively affect women's hormones, which may lead to multiple health problems, such as allergies, impaired fertility, heart problems, thyroid disorders, and fetal malformations.

The World Health Organization calls on nail polish manufacturers to put labels that clarify all materials and compounds used in the manufacture of these products. It is also preferable to impose a legal legislation that obliges companies to list the product's ingredients on the label. This procedure aims to identify toxic substances found in some types and withdraw them from the markets, in addition to stopping their production. This is in order to provide a degree of reassurance to consumers and enhance confidence between companies and users.

**Nail polish and its harmful effects on the eye** Nail polish products contain "formaldehyde" which gives it hardness, but at the same time causes eye sensitivity and leads to irritation in the nose and lungs when inhaled. As for the "toluene" substance, it gives flexibility to the texture of the polish, making it easy to slide on the nails. However, inhaling this substance for long periods and in large quantities can cause damage to the nervous system.

In addition, these substances may lead to fetal malformations and birth defects in the fetus.

Using nail polish can also cause inflammation and sensitivity in the eyelids when the polish comes into contact with its delicate and sensitive skin.

**Harms of nail polish to nail health**

 

Nails can be exposed to weakness, yellowing and breakage as a result of using nail polish. Nail polish removers can also cause cracks in the nails, which leads to them falling out easily.

Most types of nail polish available in different colors cause women to suffer from severe headaches and skin infections. As for red polish, it may leave temporary yellow spots on the nails.

Some women are allergic to solvents, which are chemical compounds such as ketone, xylene, and acetone, which evaporate when exposed to air, leading to air pollution with chemicals.

These substances in the polish enhance the flexibility of the polish and make it shiny and attractive. But the danger lies in the fact that inhaling these substances after they evaporate can cause severe headaches and polluted air enters the body.

In addition, the substance "acetone" is easily flammable when exposed to low temperatures, such as the heat of a cigarette or proximity to a source of flame, or even under strong sunlight, making it a highly flammable substance.

**The effect of nail polish on the thyroid gland, liver, and lungs**

 

A recent study was conducted to determine the extent of the presence of "phthalates" in the bodies of women who use nail polish. This substance is used in the polish formula to give the desired shine and luster, in addition to providing moisture to the nails to prevent them from breaking. It has significant negative effects on the thyroid gland in women. The study included 900 men and women, where the levels of this substance were measured in the urine of volunteers.

The results showed that the levels of "phthalates" were higher in the urine of women than men, and it turned out that the type of "phthalates" found matched the type used in the nail polish products used by the study participants. The researchers also discovered that the substance "acetone", which is used as a solvent in nail polish, may lead to health problems in the heart, lungs and liver in the medium term, especially when exposed to heavy exposure to the fumes and smoke resulting from it.

*Can nail polish be used during pregnancy?**

 

**Nail polish for pregnant women** Some components of nail polish contain substances that may pose a risk to the health of the fetus. Among these substances are "formaldehyde" and "toluene", which may lead to fetal malformations if the mother uses them repeatedly. Doctors advise avoiding these substances and following some precautions. If a pregnant woman is determined to use nail polish, it is preferable to choose types that do not contain these two substances during pregnancy. If she has to use a type that contains these substances, it is recommended to use it once every 15 days. She should also apply it in a well-ventilated place, with the windows open before starting. The pregnant woman should keep her arms as far away from her body as possible and avoid inhaling air laden with the smell of nail polish. It is also preferable not to blow on the nails to dry them, as this may facilitate the inhalation of harmful odors.

**Nail polish remover for pregnant women** When a pregnant woman wants to remove her nail polish, it is preferable to use a remover that does not contain "acetone", as this substance may lead to dryness and brittleness of the nails.

Although acetone is generally considered safe for pregnant women, because it is naturally present in the body,The danger lies in continuous exposure to it for long periods and in large quantities, which may increase the possibility of fetal malformations. It can also cause problems in the normal development of the fetus.

Therefore, it is preferable to avoid using nail polish remover that contains acetone and look for other alternatives.

It is also necessary for the mother to wash her hands well with soap and water after applying the polish or using the remover, as this helps remove any chemicals that may be stuck to the hands, which reduces the risk of them entering the body through the mouth.

**The harms of nail polish to pregnant women**

 

**Formaldehyde** Formaldehyde is a chemical component used in nail polish, as it gives the polish hardness. However, inhaling this substance can lead to irritation in the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. It is known that it may cause cancer when exposed to it in large quantities and over a long period.

Therefore, it is preferable to avoid frequent exposure to formaldehyde, as this substance quickly decomposes in the body. Some regulations in the UK have limited the use of this substance in products to 0.2%, which is very small, meaning that there is a risk when used in excess.

**Toluene** Toluene is used in nail polish to make it more fluid and easy to apply to nails. However, inhaling it can irritate the eyes, throat and lungs. Direct exposure to large quantities of it for long periods can also negatively affect the nervous system and cause birth defects.

**Tips for nail care during pregnancy and breastfeeding**

 

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are unique stages in a woman’s life, but they do require some adjustments to lifestyle and health habits. One of these habits is nail care as an important aspect. To help you overcome or prevent problems you may face with your nails, here are five tips for nail care during pregnancy and breastfeeding:

1. **Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals** Proper nutrition is essential for healthy nails, as you need vitamins such as biotin, folic acid, beta-carotene, and vitamin B12, in addition to minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, and magnesium. These elements contribute to strengthening nails and preventing them from peeling and breaking. You can get these nutrients from foods rich in protein such as meat, eggs, milk, cheese, and nuts, in addition to colorful fruits and vegetables such as carrots, oranges, strawberries, and spinach. It is also preferable to avoid foods rich in sugar, fat, and salt, as well as those containing preservatives.

2. **Drink enough water** Water is an essential element for the health of the body in general, and especially for the health of nails, as it helps moisturize them and prevent dryness. By following these tips, you can maintain the health and beauty of your nails during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Trim your nails regularly to keep them clean and prevent breakage

To care for your nails during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is essential to trim them regularly and to a moderate length, as long nails may be susceptible to germs and fungi, in addition to the risk of scratches or breakage. It is preferable to use clean and sterilized scissors or files, while avoiding cutting the skin surrounding the nails or cuticles, as this may lead to infections or bleeding. It is also advisable to trim your nails straight or slightly rounded, and avoid trimming them in a pointed or sharp way, as this may cause the nails to crack or become embedded in the skin.

**Avoid using harmful chemicals** Nails should be protected while doing housework or dealing with chemicals, as some chemicals found in cleaning products may cause skin irritation, dry nails, change their color or damage them. Therefore, it is important to avoid direct exposure to these materials, and to use protective gloves when cleaning or washing. It is important to choose high-quality nail polish that is free of harmful substances such as formaldehyde, toluene and phthalates. It is preferable to use a base coat and a top coat to protect the nails from contamination and staining. Nail polish should also be removed after a period of time using acetone-free nail polish removers. It is also best to give your nails breaks from polish every now and then to allow them to breathe and rejuvenate.

**Avoid nail biting** Nail biting is an unhealthy behavior that may result from anxiety, stress or boredom, leading to multiple problems for the nails and mouth. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the causes of anxiety or stress and treat them. This habit leads to deformation of the nails, their brittleness and breakage, and increases the risk of bacterial, fungal or viral infections, and may also cause damage to the teeth, gums or jaw. To get rid of this habit, you can use some methods such as chewing gum, mints or candy, or applying bitter or hot nail polish, or wearing gloves.

**Use natural care products** Some chemical products used for nail care contain substances that cause irritation or allergies, which negatively affect your health and the health of your child. Therefore, it is preferable to choose natural or organic products that are free of these substances, as they nourish, moisturize and protect your nails. You can also benefit from vinegar, lemon, garlic, ginger, honey and aloe vera as home remedies for nail problems such as fungus, pigmentation and cracking.

**Check the cleanliness of the nail salon** The nail technician must have the necessary experience or the appropriate license.

Manicure and pedicure stations must be clean.

Foot baths and filters are well disinfected before each use.

There should be no dirty tools scattered around the place.

The nail technician is keen to wash his hands between clients.

Tip: Do not hesitate to ask how to clean the tools. For example, all metal cutters and tweezers must be sterilizedUsing an ultrasonic cleaner, the metal file heads should also be soaked in acetone.

**Avoid Infection** Avoid cutting or pressing too hard on your skin, as this can increase your risk of infection.

Wait at least 24 hours after shaving your legs before getting a pedicure to avoid infection from small cuts.

Make sure any cuts or scrapes are completely healed before getting a manicure or pedicure.

Tip: If you get regular manicures and pedicures during your pregnancy, consider purchasing your own tools to use at the salon.

**Reduce Your Risk of UV Exposure** Choose salons that use LED lights instead of UV lights.

Be sure to apply mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+) before going into the light.

Wear UV-protective fingerless gloves as an alternative to sunscreen.

Some natural products that can be used to care for, moisturize, nourish and whiten nails include:

**Olive oil**: Olive oil can be applied to the nails and gently massaged, then left for 15 minutes before washing it with warm water. This method helps moisturize and strengthen the nails and prevents peeling.

**Lemon juice**: Lemon juice can be mixed with warm water, then the nails can be soaked in this mixture for 10 minutes, then washed with cold water. This method helps whiten the nails, remove yellow spots and get rid of unwanted odors.

**Honey**: Honey can be applied to the nails and massaged gently, then left for 10 minutes before washing it with lukewarm water. This helps nourish the nails and improve their appearance and shine.