UV nail polish dryers to cause cell damage.

UV nail drying lamps are used to dry nail polish. The lamps contain multiple bulbs that emit UV rays. These UV rays wavelength ranges between 340nm to 395nm.UV lamps are used to make nail polish last longer. One session has up to 10 minutes exposure to UV rays. Regular users typically change their gel manicure every 2 weeks. Researchers at the University of California San Diego, the study found that UV light emitting from these devices leads to cell death and cancer-causing mutations in human cells. Dr Aayush Gupta from Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical college (Pune), said “UV rays damage biological systems, including DNA, by breaking the bonds that hold important molecules together leading to the generation of free radicals, which causes damage to DNA, proteins, and other cellular contents and are ultimately responsible for development of skin cancer”.

To study the effect of UV radiation on DNA and cells, mice models were used. Researchers exposed cells from humans and mice to UV light from nail dryer. They found that a single 20 minute session led 20-30 percent of cell death. Three consecutive 20 minutes exposure caused 65-70 percent cell death. Remaining cells experienced mitochondrial and DNA damage resulting in mutation similar to skin cancer patient. UV light exposure to skin may also cause damage to WBC. Further studies should be done yet.

Damage caused-

1. Photo ageing

2. Wrinkles

3. Dark spots

4. Loss of elasticity

5. Burns

6. Large open pores

7. Dilated blood vessels

8. Cell death

9. Reduction in WBC cells

10. Mutation

Even UV emitting tanning devices are carcinogenic to humans. It has 280nm-480nm wavelength. Exposure to UV light from sun or artificial sources increase the risk of developing skin cancer. So, it is recommended to stay away from any UV light emitting sources.

References:

1. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/uv-nail-polish-dryers-lead-to-cell-death-and-cancer-causing-mutations/article66454256.ece/amp/