Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful phases in every woman’s life. Though the fetus takes a few weeks to grow in the womb, a woman starts feeling the baby the very first moment she gets to know about her pregnancy. Subsequently, she starts getting paranoid about her health and begins to take care of herself more than ever. She starts observing consciously what she puts in and on her body.
But good health is not just physical. Pregnant mommies should also look after their mental health. And self-care is all about mental wellbeing – be it doing skincare or getting your nails done. However, there are many beauty myths revolving around pregnant women and we are here to help you bust some of them related to your press-on nails.
So, have you got a bun in the oven, but are lusting over beautiful nails? Come let’s discuss whether press-on nails are safe during pregnancy.
What are Press-On Nails? Are Press-On Nails Safe During Pregnancy?
Press-on nails are a quick, easy, and trending option for salon-like fake nail enhancements. They can be used for DIY manicures at home to get salon-quality results without the fuss of visiting the salon for hours and getting your nails lathered with all those harmful chemicals and toxic lights.
These are a set of predesigned nails that are versatile for use for everyone offering a variety of options when it comes to shapes, sizes, lengths, and designs. Once you learn how to apply press-on nails correctly and efficiently with some simple tips, you can ‘nail’ your manicure at home without spending much time.
When it comes to pregnant women, they are always in doubt and concerned about using beauty and self-care products fearing the chemicals and their harmful effects. But the good news is that press-on nails are a safer alternative to salon manicures and traditional nail polishes.
So the answer to your question ‘Are press-ons safe to use for pregnant women?’ is Yes!
There are many myths about press-on nails but rest assured, they are generally safe to use as they do not involve any harmful gels or acrylic powders, or even any harsh UV/LED lights. If you invest in good-quality acrylic press-ons and non-toxic glues, you may go ahead with your press-ons breaking these myths.
1) Safety and Precautions
If you are a mom-to-be, you don’t have to be scared but you need to be aware of certain factors to be safe against the risks associated with getting your nails done:
2) Understand the Ingredients
We know all the ladies with the bumps read food labels and pill strips and Google everything before consuming to ensure it is safe for them and their babies. Similarly, when it comes to getting your nails done, the key is to learn what materials can be harmful and what is safe. Getting acrylic or gel enhancements from salons is unsafe and risky as they involve a lot of chemicals that you may inhale. Even the lights of the curing lamp may cause safety concerns. So it is advisable to avoid doing these experiments during pregnancy.
When we say press-on nails are ‘safe’, you need to be sure that the materials used in the nails and glues are non-toxic. Instead of buying cheap drugstore sets, invest in eco-friendly, non-toxic, and cruelty-free kits for your at-home manicures. Make sure you are not using acetone or other harsh chemicals with your press-ons. If getting them customized from your nail tech, inform them of your pregnancy beforehand and make sure they are using only the ‘safe’ materials while designing your sets.
3) Ensure Hygiene
If using press-on nails, be extra careful of your hygiene and cleanliness. Your body is more vulnerable during pregnancy, and so you are more prone to infections. Make sure you are using clean tools and working in clean spaces when doing your at-home manis. Don’t be harsh with filing or buffing your nails and avoid inhaling the dust released from your nails. Don’t push or cut the cuticles too deep and be sure you’re not causing any pain.
While wearing the press-ons also, you have to be particular about your hygiene. Make sure there isn’t any debris or deposits under your nails; clean them regularly with soapy water and a brush. Be careful to not scratch or harm your body, especially your private parts, with long nails. Look after your nails to check and prevent any bacteria or fungal infections.
4) Precautionary Measures
When applying your press-on nails, don’t put too much pressure to stick them. This is not just bad for your nails but also for your health during pregnancy. There are certain pressure points on your hands and fingers and you have to ensure they aren’t induced with too much pressure.
Considering the heightened sense of smell during pregnancy, it is important to do your press-on manicure in a well-ventilated space. Make sure there isn’t any dust or heat released from the nails when you prep them. And even if there is some dust, you should avoid inhaling it altogether.
Be double-sure about the nail glues by conducting a patch test first. Avoid products that seem to cause any allergies to your nails and skin. Remember your body is more vulnerable during pregnancy and the products can react differently than they otherwise would. Always be safe than sorry when it comes to your and your baby’s health.
Instead of getting lured by long and sexy designs, be practical and choose the lengths and shapes that are more versatile. You should not pierce the sharp edges of your nails on your body. Opt for short or medium lengths and oval, squoval, or almond shapes. Avoid long coffins or extra-long stilettos to stay safe.
Why Are Pregnant Women Advised to Wear Press-On Nails Only?
You might be surprised to know that press-on nails are the only kind of fake nail enhancements that pregnant women are allowed to wear. This is because press-ons are the quickest and most convenient way to get your manicure and you need not visit a salon for that. You can prioritize safety and sustainability by doing at-home manicures rather than choosing to wear acrylics or gels on your natural nails.
There are certain reasons why it is advised that pregnant women use press-on nails rather than traditional nail polishes or salon nail extensions:
1) Reduced exposure to harmful chemicals. Not only acrylics or gels, but traditional nail polishes also contain harmful chemicals that shouldn’t be put directly on the natural nails. Press-ons are away from these chemicals which is why they are considered safest during pregnancy.
2) Reduced exposure to strong solvents used for removals. Press-on nails can be removed safely and easily at home without having to visit the salon. Due to this, you can be tension-free about inhaling the vapors of the solvents like acetone which may be risky for you and your baby.
3) Zero exposure to harmful UV and LED lights for curing the product. Prolonged exposure to these rays can be harmful to you during pregnancy as suggested by medical professionals. Press-on nails are not required to be cured which saves you from this.
Wrapping Up
Press-on nails can be a safe and convenient option for pregnant women looking to maintain their nail appearance. Pregnant women are advised to wear press-on nails only because they are temporary and can be easily removed, reducing the risk of exposure to potentially harmful chemicals found in some nail products. By understanding the ingredients, ensuring hygiene, and following certain precautionary measures, the risks associated with getting nails done can be minimized. Opting for lengths and shapes that accommodate daily activities further ensures comfort and versatility. Ultimately, the decision to use press-on nails during pregnancy should be based on individual comfort and safety considerations.
