New study links UV nail polish dryers with mutations and DNA damage

The study finds UV nail polish dryers known as a salon staple poses multiple risks to people's health

The ultraviolet nail polish dryer is one of the most commonly used devices in today's health and beauty industry for gel manicures, pedicures, and other nail treatments. University of California, San Diego, researchers found that UV radiation from UV nail polish dryers can cause genetic mutations in human cells. This could lead to skin cancer or other health problems in the future.

UV nail polish dryers and cancer-causing mutations in human cells

Scientists at the University of California, San Diego, have found that UV rays emitted from UV nail polish dryers can cause DNA damage and mutations that lead to cancer or other health concerns in humans. The researchers exposed human foreskin fibroblasts to UV radiation emitted from the UV light bulbs used in most UV nail polish dryers, which are found in nail salons.

They found that the cells contained chromosomal damage called micronuclei, usually a sign of cell damage that can lead to cancer or other health issues. They also found that the cells underwent gene mutations that can affect the way they function in the body and cause serious health problems in the future. For example, they can cause cells to grow out of control and lead to cancer or disrupt important biological processes, such as how the body transports oxygen around the body.

UV Nail Polish Dryers are marketed as safe for use but can have serious health effects over time

Ludmil Alexandrov, a professor of bioengineering at UC San Diego, says that these fixtures commonly used at nail salons could cause long-term harm to people who use them frequently. Although they are marketed as 'safe for your skin', most UV light sources emit small amounts of radiation that can cause damage to the skin in the long term. This is why people should limit their exposure to these devices as much as possible to avoid possible health risks in the future.

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