The health risks of press-on nails

Press-on nails may save you time and money, but are they safe?

Dr. Taryn Murray, a dermatologist with Cleveland Clinic, explains the potential risks associated with going artificial.

“The main risks of press-on nails are infections, allergic reactions and damage to various parts of the nail unit,” Murray said.

According to Murray, people may experience infections from press-on nails because they trap in moisture, creating a damp environment for fungus and bacteria to thrive.

Signs of infection can include swelling, redness or tenderness around the nail as well as nail discoloration.

Aside from infection, Murray said applying and removing fake nails can potentially cause damage, leading to problems like brittle nails and breakage.

It’s also possible to experience an allergic reaction to the press-on nail itself or the glue used to secure it. An allergy to these ingredients can develop at any time.

To help alleviate the risk of infection, Murray recommends only wearing press-on nails for special occasions and keeping the length short.

“The longer the nail is, the more likely it is to cause separation between the natural nail and the nail bed, which can increase the risk of microorganisms getting underneath,” she said.

Murray stresses it’s important to follow up with a dermatologist if you notice any changes to your nails or signs of an infection.