The Dangers of Improperly Using Gel Glue with Press-On Nails

The Dangers of Improperly Using Gel Glue with Press-On Nails

The Dangers of Improperly Using Gel Glue with Press-On Nails
By Press-On Express

Press-on nails have revolutionized at-home manicures, offering a fast, stylish, and affordable alternative to salon visits. However, with so many types of adhesives available on the market, it's essential to understand which ones are safe to use with your press-on nails—and which ones are not. One such product that’s often used incorrectly is gel glue.

While gel glue can be an excellent option for some nail applications, when used improperly, it can lead to a range of issues, from minor discomfort to severe health risks. In this post, we’ll explain why gel glue should not be used with press-on nails, and the dangers of using it in the wrong way.

1. Health Risks and Allergic Reactions

One of the biggest dangers of using gel glue with press-on nails is the potential for severe allergic reactions. Gel glues, especially those formulated for professional use, contain stronger chemicals that may not be suitable for contact with the skin—particularly around the sensitive nail bed.

If gel glue is used improperly, the glue may come into contact with your skin, leading to symptoms like:

  • Redness and irritation
  • Swelling and blisters
  • Itching and peeling
  • Severe allergic reactions, including rashes or breathing difficulties

These reactions can be dangerous, especially if the glue comes into contact with broken skin or gets trapped underneath the press-on nails.

2. Risk of Nail Damage

Press-on nails are designed to be applied with safe adhesives such as liquid nail glue or specially designed nail tabs. These glues are formulated to bond securely without damaging your natural nails. On the other hand, gel glue is typically used in professional gel manicure applications and may require UV or LED light to cure properly.

Using gel glue with press-on nails can lead to several issues, such as:

  • Difficulty in removal: Gel glue is much stronger than standard press-on adhesives, and removing nails that have been applied with it can be difficult and damaging to the natural nail. Forceful removal can cause your nails to peel, split, or break.
  • Weakened natural nails: Prolonged use of gel glue can weaken the natural nail, especially if the glue is left on too long or improperly removed. This can lead to thinning or brittleness of your nails, making them more prone to breakage.

3. Unwanted Moisture Trapping and Bacterial Growth

A major concern when using gel glue incorrectly is the potential for water and moisture to get trapped under the press-on nails. Unlike standard nail glue, gel glues are thicker and may not allow moisture to escape properly, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

Trapped moisture can lead to:

  • Discomfort and lifting: Moisture under the nails can cause the press-on nails to lift prematurely, leading to an uncomfortable experience and potentially damaging your natural nails.
  • Infections: If moisture becomes trapped for an extended period, it can lead to bacterial or fungal growth, which can cause infections. This is especially dangerous for the delicate skin around your nails and cuticles.

4. Improper Curing with UV/LED Light

Many gel glues require curing under a UV or LED lamp. If you’re attempting to use gel glue with press-on nails, you may not have the proper equipment, leading to improper curing and adhesive failure. Gel glue that hasn’t been fully cured will not bond properly to your nails and may cause the press-on nails to pop off unexpectedly.

Additionally, using a UV/LED lamp improperly can expose you to unnecessary risks, such as:

  • Skin damage: UV light can be harmful to your skin, leading to premature aging or even increasing your risk of skin cancer with prolonged exposure.
  • Nail damage: Prolonged exposure to UV light can also weaken your natural nails, especially if you use it frequently for improper gel applications.

Why You Should Stick to Liquid Nail Glue and Tabs

To ensure a safe, long-lasting, and enjoyable press-on nail experience, it’s crucial to use the right type of adhesive. Liquid nail glue and the nail tabs provided in your press-on nail kit are specifically designed for this purpose. They are formulated to bond securely to the press-on nails while ensuring ease of application and removal. Here’s why they’re the best choice:

  • Gentle on natural nails: Liquid nail glue and nail tabs are designed to be gentle on your natural nails, ensuring minimal risk of damage.
  • Safe and easy to remove: These adhesives can be removed without causing harm to your natural nails when done correctly, unlike gel glue.
  • Prevents infections: With proper application, there’s little risk of moisture or bacteria getting trapped under the press-on nails.

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Beautiful, and Informed

While gel glue may seem like an appealing option for securing press-on nails, it’s not designed for this purpose and can lead to a variety of health and safety concerns. To avoid these risks, always stick to the adhesive provided in your press-on nail kit, whether that’s liquid nail glue or nail tabs. By doing so, you’ll ensure a safe, beautiful, and hassle-free manicure every time.

If you have any questions about adhesives or need advice on proper nail care, feel free to reach out to us at Press-On Express—we’re here to help!

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