I recently found out about a report that’s got me thinking. Published in the Archives of Dermatology (2009; 145(4)), it raised a concern about those UV lights that are used in nail salons. For those of you who may not know, the UV is added to the dryer fan to add to the convenience of your visit so you don’t have to sit there forever waiting for the polish to dry.

I never thought about it before, but UV light is UV light—the same stuff that’s in sunlight and tanning beds. In other words, it’s the same stuff that increases your risk of skin cancer the more you’re exposed to it—alarming to me since I go get manicures weekly! (I bring my own non-toxic Aquarella nail polish, of course.)

The lead author of the report is Deborah F. MacFarlane, M.D. She started getting concerned when a couple of her patients with skin cancer on their hands admitted that they regularly had their nails done. Both had used the UV nail lights. Dr. MacFarlane wondered: could there be a connection?

“A common piece of equipment found in almost all nail salons is the UV nail lamp,” she writes in her report. “The UV emitted from the nail lights is predominantly UV-A, similar to tanning beds.” She goes on to say that these lights are used to cure UV gel nails, to dry traditional nail polish, and for UV top sealers or topcoats formulated to protect the nail. Exposure to UV light is a major risk factor for the development of melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers, and we already know that tanning beds can damage DNA and cause skin cancers.

Dr. MacFarlane is the first to say that her observations are certainly not proof. She’s talking about two cases here, which isn’t nearly enough on which to base a conclusion. “Although no strong conclusions can be made from this limited case series,” she writes, “we suggest that exposure to UV nail light might also be considered when assessing potential skin cancer risks….”

It makes sense, right? I write about these things on my blog to create awareness about the possible dangers of certain chemicals so that you feel empowered to make an educated decision. Of course, cancer isn’t going to show up on everyone who uses the UV lights. But certain people who may already be at risk might want to take this report into consideration—people with a family history of cancer, or who go to the salon on a regular basis. It’s easy enough to avoid this particular danger—just air dry your nails, avoid UV-related products like gels and sealers, or simply turn off the UV light on the fan machine. It’s as easy as a click.

Personally, I’m glad to have become aware of this potential connection, and now I always turn off the UV light on my dryer!

Have you heard about this possible connection? What do you think?

Photo courtesy the lotus eaters via Flickr.com.

Chemotherapy raises the odds of infection. As we mentioned in our post about white blood cell count, chemo taxes the immune system and makes patients more susceptible to bugs and germs everywhere.

If you’re going through treatment, be hyper-vigilant about cleanliness, and avoid crowded and busy areas that may harbor extra bacteria. Did you know one of those places is the nail spa? It’s true—spas can be teeming with germs. According to CBSnews.com, “American Idol’s” Paula Abdul suffered an infection from a manicure that caused her to lose her thumbnail—and her immune system wasn’t compromised by cancer! So if you’re dying to get a new mani this summer, take a few precautions to keep yourself well.

First of all, don’t allow the technician to cut off your cuticles. They protect the nail bed from germs. Cutting them away leaves you open to infection, and puts you at risk from sharp cutting tools, so allow push-backs only, with a soft instrument.

Second, steer clear of artificial nails for now. As we mentioned in a former post, they’re rumored to carry more germs than natural nails (which have enough by themselves), because the space behind the acrylic nails and wraps harbor and trap bacteria. These bacteria are known to stick around even after careful hand washing, so spice up your own nails and leave the fake ones alone.

Next, invest in your own tools and non-toxic polishes, and always take them along! Avoid nail clippers completely, as they harbor a lot of germs and may cut open the skin. Stick to a file. Pack your own cuticle pusher and buffer as well, to protect yourself from community germs. Don’t forget the polish. Most nail spas pay little attention to the toxic chemicals present in polishes and polish removers—plus the bottles themselves can harbor germs—so follow the advice of our former post and purchase safer brands like Dr. Remedy Nail Products and Tate’s Natural Miracle Odorless Nail Polish Remover.

What about the spa? Most of us go to the one most conveniently located, but it’s wiser to do a little research to make sure you’re going to a quality place. If it looks dirty (check the restrooms and workstations), go somewhere else. Make sure state licenses are in plain view, and watch to see how frequently and thoroughly technicians sanitize their tools—and their own hands. Baths and sinks should be thoroughly cleaned with antibacterial products and plenty of water after every customer, else they can harbor germs, pieces of skin, and hair. Typically, those salons that are professional looking with licensed cosmetologists are safer than drop-in corner shops, but use your own judgment.

Finally, respect how you feel during the manicure. If anything hurts or stings, speak up. Don’t allow the technician to use anything sharp on you, including razors, blades, or callus files. Ask for those specialists who are particularly gentle, and mention your need for sensitive care. If you don’t feel comfortable at anytime, ask for another technician, or find another salon.

Of course, you can always set up your own manicure at home with a friend or loved one, and enjoy the same benefits. Essortment.com has some great general recommendations, and writer Janice Wee tells you how to host your next at-home manicure party.

Do you have tips on how to get pretty nails while avoiding infection? Please share your stories.

Photo courtesy of Edmund North Orchestra Boosters via Flickr.com.