Allergy to Shellac/Gelish

[fabfav]

I have developed an allergy to Acrylic nails about 6 years ago and stopped getting acrylics done. The symptoms were red swollen itchy cuticles and then my skin would peel under the nail and around the cuticle. When Shellac came out I was excited to get it done, I had it done and the first 2 times it was great! Unfortunately, the 3rd time I had an allergic reaction just like the acrylic nails. I thought maybe I had a cross contamination with something that had acrylic on it. I tried again and had the same results, it always takes 6 - 12 hours for the itching to begin. I recently tried Gelish and I've had the same reaction. I've been told I can't be allergic to either polishes, I just want to know what I'm allergic to so I can avoid it in the future.

Please help!! :sad: I'm getting married in April and NEED to have pretty nails for my wedding.

 

[geeg]

You would have to go through a lengthy patch test of various chemicals to determine which one or ones you are affecting you. Shellac is completely free of the most common allergens found in most nail products, so that rules out quite allot of things. Some companies will supply patch tests. You have to contact them and ask.

Of course you could be allergic ... A person can be allergic to anything so that was silly information to give you. Shellac is hypoallergenic but the gels are not. But there is no guarantee that someone won't be allergic even to a hypoallergenic product.

If the tech who did your nails with Shellac used the whole system then it is unlikely anyone would be allergic to it ... Unfortunately many are mixing systems or using the wrong uv lamps so it is hard to tell. Could be any other common thing they are using like acetone etc. A patch test is the only way to find out and it must be administered by a doctor.

I'm sure you will be a beautiful bride whatever the outcome. X

 

[Victoriabar]

Just a random thought, did the tech who did your nails perform the same cuticle care routine before doing both Shellac and Gel?? It could be something in that service that is causing the reaction.

 

[rldebusk]

I use to get the solar nails and developed a reaction to it...itchy, tingling in my fingers that traveled up higher every day and would last for days. Sometimes even into my hands.

I recently tried the Shellac nails and have had the same reaction...if not worse. My fingers itch and feel tingly under the nail. I have to take benadryl and put itch cream on my hands because it drives me crazy! Now it's been a week and my cuticles are peeling and I still have some tingly feeling under the tips of my nails.

The only common denominator I can figure is the Acetone. I have even had this reaction when getting a regular manicure but with less severe reactions.

I really love getting my nails done but it's not worth this....