Is it dangerous to have nail extensions during pregnancy? Nail extensions during pregnancy: can they be coated with gel polish or acrylic? Is gel nail extension harmful for pregnant women?

Alcohol, cigarettes, coffee, X-rays, aspirin, some foods, herbs... The list of “harmful things” and taboos for pregnant women turns out to be depressingly long. Logically, gel and acrylic – the “chemistry” used for artificial surfaces – are clearly a good fit for this company. But not everything is so simple. Can pregnant women get nail extensions or not?

“Gold standard” for expectant mothers: possible, but careful

Pregnant women, despite realizing their high mission, often feel unattractive. Their self-esteem steadily creeps down as their figure “spreads” and other metamorphoses. Meanwhile, it is well known that when mommy is healthy and happy, her baby will also feel comfortable. We women have a magical means of raising our mood and self-esteem - visits to a cosmetologist, hairdresser and other specially trained people. But can pregnant women afford such luxury when it comes to nail extensions?

To date, there are no studies showing that gels and acrylics harm babies in the womb. Therefore, treating nails with these materials is not strictly prohibited. On the other hand, an interesting situation requires reinsurance. Therefore, the answer to the question whether pregnant women can have their nails extended will be typical for many unproven or ambiguous cases - it is possible, but with caution.

Gel or acrylic?

Formaldehyde, toluene, methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, isopropanol, acetone - just the names of the substances that make up acrylic and gel suggest evil. Indeed, close “communication” with them can result in a powerful allergic reaction, nausea and even loss of consciousness. However, nail extensions during pregnancy do not become taboo. And all because the amount of harmful substances in the materials is so insignificant that it does not pose a threat to either mother or baby. The same acetone vapors, for example, can cause harm only in very high concentrations when absorbed through the lungs into the blood. Fortunately, our liver utilizes even large doses quickly and efficiently. That is why experts give an affirmative answer to the question whether pregnant women can cover their nails with gel polish or acrylic.

Which of these two materials is preferable from a safety point of view? In the case of acrylic, the problem becomes an unpleasant odor, which irritates the mucous membranes of any person, especially the expectant mother. If a pregnant woman is very sensitive to any odors, then for greater comfort she should refuse to use this material.

Then is it possible to consider that it is better for pregnant women to extend their nails with gel? If you do not take into account the smell, then there is no difference between it and acrylic. Both materials evaporate equally, releasing active substances, and both do not pose a threat to the fetus. However, the gel may be potentially more dangerous when it comes to products from China and Korea. Local manufacturers do not hesitate to add methyl methacrylate to it - an extremely harmful substance that is not included in European and American materials.

Rules for “pregnant” extensions

To minimize even the ghostly harm of the extension procedure, it is advisable:

do not save money, use high-quality materials, be careful with compounds from China and Korea;
ensure sufficient ventilation of the room. Ideally, the procedure should be carried out outdoors;
do not keep containers with chemicals open during the process;
use a mask or respirator that blocks odors and dust from entering the mucous membranes, which is formed due to filing of nails;
After the procedure, rinse your nose with mineral water or plain water (you can add a little salt to it)

When should we wait for better times?

You should not extend your nails in the first trimester of an interesting situation. At this time, the body is actively restructuring, becoming unpredictable, and its reaction to the procedure may be inadequate.
For “deeply pregnant” women, it is also unhelpful, or at least uncomfortable, to sit for a long time in a sedentary position with a compressed stomach. Moreover, without five minutes, mothers will still have to soon part with all this beauty (more on that below);
If, due to a lack of calcium, the nails have lost their former condition - they have become brittle and too dry. In this case, the artificial coating may last very long or look unaesthetic, making all sacrifices in the name of beauty meaningless. If you have doubts about the advisability of extensions, it is better not to experiment, but to consult with a professional.
A woman who has never had her nails done before should not try gel or acrylic during pregnancy.

No time for beauty!

Many medical institutions practice monitoring the process of childbirth and a woman’s well-being by tracking the color of her nails - whether they turn pale or blue. In addition, a heart rate monitoring sensor can be attached to the finger. This device must fit tightly to the nail plate - natural, without varnish or other chemicals. Therefore, before giving birth, you will have to remove not only the artificial coating, but also simple varnish from at least one or two, or better yet, all nails.

Undoubtedly, the most important period in a woman’s life is pregnancy. After all, it is at this moment that she feels double responsibility and the need to protect oneself and one's unborn child. However, along with the new activities and habits that a pregnant woman develops, she also needs those actions that were usually done in everyday life: manicure, styling, haircut and much more.

Can pregnant women get nail extensions?

Is it dangerous to get nail extensions for pregnant women?
Can pregnant women get nail extensions?
Pregnant women need to constantly listen to themselves, immediately solve any health problems. But besides this most important mission, a woman, as always, wants to be irresistible to herself and the people around her.
Therefore, one cannot condemn the desire of pregnant women to take care of their hands. And since nature has not blessed all women with strong nails, many of us resort to the help of extended nails.

Are there any contraindications for nail extensions during pregnancy?

Firstly, you need to choose the material that suits you individually for extensions. In many pregnant women, due to hormonal changes, the extended nail detaches the next day. That is why the composition for the procedure should be right for you. For example, there are two types of material: gel and acrylic. And although acrylic characterized strong odor, this does not mean that the gel is a less volatile substance. Both of them evaporate the same way, only the gel does it “odorlessly”. Therefore, just determine what suits your nails. Perhaps acrylic, although it has a smell, will lie perfectly on your nail plate.

Secondly Above the table where nail extensions take place there should be strong ventilation or an exhaust hood, which will protect you from inhaling harmful fumes. There is an opinion that such pairs can lead to developmental disorders of the fetus.

IMPORTANT: However, studies have shown that the association between inhaling vapors from nail extensions or painting them did not lead to the birth of children with disabilities. Just protect yourself and your unborn child as much as possible from any negative factors.

Third, all tools must be properly processed. This is necessary in order to reduce, or rather completely prevent, the risk of viruses and microbes entering the body of a pregnant woman that can harm her health and the health of the baby. Of course, the ideal option is to have personalized tools that would be used only for your hands. But if this is not possible, for whatever reason, make sure that the existing tools are well treated before using them for manicure.

This may seem pedantic to some, but for pregnant women this is forgivable, because the main task is to ensure safety on all sides!

So, from the above facts we can conclude that nail extensions are not at all so scary during pregnancy.

You just need to pay more attention to the materials and tools used in nail salons and listen to your body. Remember that a woman is ultimately beautiful in any of her manifestations! And although nails are considered a woman's calling card, sometimes just neat, well-groomed, even sometimes unpainted nails are enough. The main thing is neatness, tenderness, self-respect and love.

Do pregnant women paint their nails with gel polish?

For many beauties, gel polish has become an excellent alternative to regular manicure. The thing is that it lasts longer than ordinary varnish and pleases the eyes with the impeccable condition of the nails. At the same time, it is not at all necessary to abandon household chores. Gel polish is not afraid of washing dishes, laundry, cooking and other household chores. The only question is the safety of its use when a woman is preparing to become a mother. The composition of gel polish is no more dangerous than regular polish. In addition, unlike extensions, gel polish coating does not require polishing the nail plate to such an extent. Consequently, such a manicure can be considered more gentle due to the absence of the need to file off the nail layer, as well as the unpleasant odor for sensitive nose of pregnant women when the varnish dries.

What kind of polish can pregnant women paint their nails on?

Based on the facts we have described, it turns out that pregnant women, like others, can use any varnish, as well as have their nails extended during the main period of their life. The main thing when taking care of yourself is not to forget about basic safety measures and not to overdo it with innovations.

Does not exist contraindications to manicure for pregnant women, since no serious consequences for the fetus have been identified due to the use of manicure products.

Safe nail polish for pregnant women?

As we have determined, any nail polish is, in principle, no more dangerous for a pregnant woman than for a woman who is not pregnant. Therefore, you should not completely avoid caring for your hands, skin and nails.

Just remember that varnishes and nail extensions may behave more unusually and capriciously on your nails than usual. You have the right to determine for yourself, based on your feelings, which varnish is right for you.

After all, it is the smell of nail polish that causes the greatest dislike for pregnant women. Choose the option that suits you. If there is a regular varnish, the smell of which does not irritate you, maybe you should please yourself and buy the entire palette?

Or maybe you will be satisfied with a classic French jacket applied with gel polish, and you won’t get tired of wearing it for two weeks? The choice is yours !

Nails during pregnancy: care

It is known that nails, like hair, grow much faster during pregnancy. This means that you will have to do your usual procedures in a beauty salon or at home more often.

If gel polish could previously be applied once a month, then during pregnancy, it will have to be renewed every one and a half to two weeks. Don't forget to also add foods rich in calcium to your diet, since not only your nails are growing, but also your unborn child's. Persimmons, sesame seeds, and hard cheeses will help keep your nails in good condition and enrich the body with the necessary elements.

Nails during pregnancy: reviews and useful tips

ADVICE: expectant mothers can create a personal care program for themselves, taking into account the characteristics of their own nails. If your gel polish lasts a long time, then I think it’s better to apply it than to paint your nails every three days with a strong-smelling regular polish.

ADVICE:If Extended nails allow you to do without a manicure for about a month, then it is better to do it during pregnancy, limiting the inhalation of harmful fumes. In all cases, remember that the room where you put your hands in order must be well ventilated, have an exhaust hood, for example.

ADVICE: Right eat, be calm, enjoy life and your manicure as well!

Video: Can pregnant women paint their nails?

Any woman dreams of always looking perfect and feeling beautiful, and therefore confident. During pregnancy, this desire intensifies even more. The new state affects all of us differently: some are happy, some are worried, some are in confusion, but everyone, without exception, wants to find that same feeling. It is extremely important for a pregnant woman to be sure that she is special, exceptional, loved, desired. And here you can’t do without a well-groomed appearance. You can bake pies divinely, but there is little charm or grace in it.

Looking great today is not a problem even for pregnant women. Modern models of clothing and shoes - comfortable, practical, made of high-quality materials and perfectly fitting - can be found in any city and almost in the countryside. There are also beauty salons everywhere offering hair, nails and body care services. And we all successfully use these benefits. But still, wearing beautiful clothes and extending nails with gel during pregnancy is a difference. Many expectant mothers doubt whether it is harmful to have artificial nails at such a crucial period in their lives.

Nail extensions with gel and acrylic during pregnancy

The possibility of artificial nail extensions is no longer a novelty. This service very quickly gained popularity among women around the world, and it must be said that in a short period of time it has improved significantly. Specialists have developed convenient, durable and safe materials for nail extensions, masters have gained sufficient experience in mastering various techniques, and therefore there are more and more grateful fans of gel and acrylic extensions among salon clients. After all, it is not only beautiful and aesthetically pleasing (if the procedure is performed skillfully), but also very convenient: you can forget about the appearance and condition of your nails for several weeks!

Many women wear artificial nails almost constantly. And they are so accustomed to them that they do not want to deny themselves the pleasure of always having neat, beautiful nails even while pregnant. But if earlier they might have had a preference over a certain material and method of extension for subjective reasons, now the expectant mother is wondering: what is better to extend her nails during pregnancy - gel or acrylic?

Among nail salon clients there are more fans of gel extensions. The smell of acrylic played a significant role in this - sharp, unpleasant. For this reason, many people think that the gel is safer, but experts assure that the composition of both materials is almost identical. And although the gel does not stink as much as acrylic, it evaporates in the same way and has the same effect on the respiratory tract.

Harm of nail extensions during pregnancy

The main component of nail extension materials is methacrylate. In this industry, two types are used: the more toxic one is methyl methacrylate (MMA) and the less toxic one is ethyl methacrylate (EMA). The first, in certain doses, affecting the embryo, can cause malformations of its development, but the materials for nail extensions contain negligible amounts of it compared to the potentially dangerous dose (almost a thousand times less). And yet, methyl methacrylate is banned in America and Europe, and therefore, when performing nail extensions with American or European materials, you do not risk anything. The harm may be hidden in cheaper and lower quality gel or acrylic made in China and Korea.

In addition, it should be remembered that harmful substances are contained in many nail care products, including varnishes. In particular, many of them (as well as extension materials) contain components that are unsafe for a pregnant woman (formaldehyde) and her unborn child (toluene).

But in order for their influence to have a negative effect on the fetus, the varnishes should be inhaled sufficiently. A one-time, fleeting procedure does not pose any threat to pregnant women, the experts assure, and confirm with facts: there is not a single registered case of a fetus developing defects as a result of exposure to these substances.

Of course, there is always potential risk. Be that as it may, the woman inhales toxic fumes, and some of them enter the bloodstream, and then to the fetus. But it is impossible to say unequivocally that growing nails during pregnancy is harmful. Because, by and large, it is harmful to breathe, even walking down the street: the air is so polluted that no amount of formaldehyde is harmful. Moreover: scientists have conducted research and proven that inside residential premises, where household chemicals based on phosphates and surfactants are used, air pollution is 5-7 times higher than what is outside. And this is if we talk about a house located near the highway!

However, it is also impossible to absolutely assure expectant mothers that acrylic or gel nail extensions during pregnancy are absolutely safe. Therefore, a woman must make a decision based on her own feelings, beliefs, desires and views. And if you are still inclined in favor of extensions, then you should not plan it for a later date: you will need to sit in one position for an hour and a half, and sometimes two, which is difficult and not harmless with a large tummy. The first trimester is also not the best time: remember, now all the risks are greatly increased! Therefore, it is best to carry out extensions in the second or closer to the second trimester.

Is it possible to get nail extensions while pregnant?

Like any other salon procedure, this one also has contraindications. But there is no pregnancy among them, although experts do not advise extending artificial nails during hormonal changes, and during the period of bearing a child they are inevitable. This procedure is contraindicated for people undergoing chemotherapy or bacterial treatment, having problems with blood circulation and the functioning of the cardiovascular system, as well as for people with diabetes, herpes or fungal nail infections. If you are prone to allergies, after suffering stress, it is also better to avoid nail extensions.

However, due to active hormonal changes in the body of the expectant mother, the foreign material may not take root on her natural nails: rejection of the extended nails is not excluded; they may not hold up well.

You should think twice if you decide to get your nails done for the first time during pregnancy. New nails require some caution and an adaptation period in the first days and weeks after extensions. You may feel discomfort, it can be irritating and make you nervous. It is better to abandon the idea if you are tormented by doubts about the safety of this procedure for the unborn baby: peace is more expensive now, and your natural nails, even very short ones, can look beautiful and neat.

In addition, extended nails make the nail plates quite heavy, and if they are already weak, brittle and brittle (which is not uncommon given the lack of minerals in the body of a pregnant woman), then perhaps it is better to strengthen the nails rather than extend them.

But if in everyday life you have been wearing extended nails for several years in a row and do not think about your hands differently, then you should not worry too much. Many women have carried and given birth to babies with extended nails and do not regret it at all. Moreover, many masters work until they go on maternity leave, extending nails with gel and acrylic to their clients.

Life experience shows that nail extensions during pregnancy are not fatal, but you should do what your heart tells you and what will make you feel calmer.

If you nevertheless decide in favor of extensions, then it will not be superfluous to take into account the following recommendations to ensure the safety of this procedure for the expectant mother and her baby:

Choose only a trusted professional with experience in nail extensions. If you are going to him for the first time, collect client reviews in advance.
Discuss with the specialist the possibility of holding a session outside, in the open air, or at least near an open window-balcony, so that there is good ventilation.
Check the composition and country of manufacture of the materials used for extensions.
For the duration of nail extensions during pregnancy, wear a mask or respirator.
Dress and put on comfortable shoes, take a small pillow with you (the session lasts a long time, and it is difficult to sit in one position) and take water.
Try to breathe primarily through your nose.
Upon arrival home, rinse the nasal mucosa (saline solution, still mineral water or plain clean water).

Rest assured that everything is fine. Beautiful well-groomed hands will give you this feeling!

Especially for - Margarita SOLOVIOVA

A pregnant woman thinks about what the pregnancy period will bring her: what she will have to give up and what she will have to do that she never had to do before. Pregnancy will bring a woman not only a small miracle and a long-awaited dream, but also some inconvenience and frustration. A pregnant woman will no longer be able to wear her usual clothes and shoes, but don’t be upset! There are also fashion stores, shoes and accessories for pregnant women.

There are a huge number of stores where a beautiful and fashionable collection of clothes, shoes, and special items are presented for expectant mothers. There are even harmless hair dyes and other cosmetics.

And if a woman is used to always getting her nails done, then what should she do? Is it possible to get nail extensions during pregnancy?

Is it beneficial or harmful to extend nails during pregnancy?

Several years ago, studies were conducted on this issue, in which women who often used the services of nail extension specialists took part.

In the course of this study, the influence of the most common chemicals used in nail extensions on the body of a pregnant woman and the course of pregnancy was observed.

Substances for nail extensions and pregnancy

Modern materials for nail extensions contain methacrylate, which comes in two types: methyl methacrylate and ethyl methacrylate. Methyl methacrylate has a negative effect on fetal development and can cause malformations. Such consequences from a given substance can occur if the concentration of the substance is a thousand times higher than the content of this substance in the materials for.

Nail extension materials produced in Europe and America do not contain methyl methacrylate at all. This substance is found in materials produced in China and Korea.

Currently, instead of methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate is used, which is less toxic and does not harm the health of the unborn child and mother, subject to precautions.

Nail polishes and materials contain minimal amounts of formaldehyde, which is poisonous and toxic in large quantities. Studies have shown that large amounts of formaldehyde can only have a negative effect on the mother’s body, and not on the child.

More dangerous is toluene, which is found in almost all nail polishes. This substance may adversely affect the development of the fetus, especially if inhaled. The toluene content in varnishes is so minimal that not a single case of impact on the development of a child has yet been recorded.

Acrylic or gel for pregnant women?

Pregnant women often choose gel for nail extensions, believing that acrylic is more harmful than gel due to the pungent chemical odor and harmful fumes. The gel is odorless, but has the same fumes and effects on the body.

In this case, if you cannot refuse nail extensions while you are pregnant, then you can safely extend your nails with both acrylic and gel.

Precautions when applying nail extensions during pregnancy

The procedure for nail extensions for a pregnant woman should be performed in a well-ventilated area where an exhaust hood will operate.

It is important that when doing nail extensions, the artist uses only high-quality materials that will not have a negative impact on the body of the expectant mother and child.

After applying nail extensions, you should thoroughly wash your hands with soap and rinse your nose with mineral water to avoid an allergic reaction to dust after filing your nails.

During pregnancy, everything changes: a woman’s outlook on life, her behavior, her attitude towards her own appearance and the world in general.

There are many superstitions regarding pregnancy. After listening to them, many girls stop cutting their hair: they used to think that the longer the braid, the more energy the expectant mother and her child will have. They also try to cut their nails as little as possible, not to mention giving themselves a manicure and pedicure.

In today's times, this myth has been dispelled, but some superstitious women still do not visit the hairdresser or beauty salons. Most, fortunately, want to look attractive. What is the main sign of grooming? Of course, hands.

Nails and pregnancy

Many people notice that their nails become drier and brittle during pregnancy, making them difficult to grow back. But don’t be upset, it won’t be like this all the time – everything will get better immediately after giving birth.

Modern cosmetic procedures make it possible to hide imperfections in appearance. Including, you can “disguise” problem nails: build them up and apply varnish to them. But a pregnant woman needs to be very careful so as not to harm her health and the baby.

Brittle nails, hair, and caries occur during pregnancy due to a lack of minerals and calcium. Therefore, some time after the birth of the baby, the problems will disappear.

Harmful substances

Pregnant women can also apply nail polish. But only those varnishes are allowed that do not contain formaldehyde, toluene, or camphor. These substances tone the uterus, which can negatively affect pregnancy.

Almost all varnishes offered in salons contain toluene. This material does affect fetal development if handled in large quantities. Moreover, the consequences for the child are the same as when drinking alcohol. In small doses it is practically harmless.

As for a substance such as formaldehyde, its use in large quantities can also negatively affect the mother’s well-being. Studies have shown that it does not affect the development of the fetus.

It is strictly prohibited to use acetone to remove nail polish during pregnancy - it can affect the central nervous system of the unborn child. There are many non-acetone nail polish removers, which are recommended for use by pregnant women.

Nail extensions

So is it possible to get nail extensions during pregnancy? In order to answer this question, it is necessary to consult about the composition of the materials that will be used for extensions. Research conducted by experts shows that most products contain a large amount of chemicals that, when evaporated, negatively affect the development of the fetus.

The main material used for nail extensions is methacrylate, which can be made from methyl methacrylate and ethyl methacrylate. As a rule, the material used by domestic salons is imported from China. It consists of methyl, which really has a negative effect, which is scientifically proven.

Experiments have shown that the use of methyl methacrylate can lead to the development of various fetal defects. It is used in our country, although methyl methacrylate has long been banned in Europe and other developed countries.

As for ethyl methacrylate, it is less toxic, so it is often offered to women who want to protect themselves from harmful fumes.

What to use: gel or acrylic?

The gel is a natural polymer that allows air to penetrate the nail plate, thereby allowing it to grow. The gel coating also protects the structure from peeling. That is, the nails will “breathe” and their appearance will be beautiful.

Acrylic does not allow air to pass through at all, but it lasts much longer on the nails. But without the necessary microelements and air saturation after this procedure, do not expect a healthy look for your nails.

The gel, unlike methacrylate, does not have a strong odor, so it is recommended to be applied to pregnant women. But you still need to be careful: even if you don’t smell it, this does not mean that the substance does not have any fumes.

What do you need to know about the procedure?

Doctors do not prohibit nail extensions during pregnancy, but you will still need to comply with some conditions:

Ask your manicurist about the composition of the materials offered.
The expectant mother should take care not to breathe in the fumes while the technician is working.
After the extension procedure, you must wash your hands thoroughly. The fact is that, as a rule, work dust remains on your hands.
It is also advisable to rinse the nostrils well to get rid of particles that may have entered during the nail extension process.

I would like to warn women against visiting dubious nail salons. After all, they can become infected with hepatitis, the consequence of which is termination of pregnancy or the birth of a child with severe pathologies.

Nail care

A hygienic manicure is quite enough to make your hands look beautiful and well-groomed. But at the same time, I would like to talk about several folk methods that will help pregnant women restore the strength of their nails and also make the skin of their hands soft.

How can pregnant women take care of their hands:

Massage is the main way to make your nails beautiful. It is recommended to do it using medicated oil and products that will help strengthen the plates.
After creams prepared with natural ingredients (lemon juice, olive oil), your nails will become stronger and your skin will become silky. You can buy vitamin A at the pharmacy and also add it to this mixture.
Soda baths are excellent for strengthening nails. To do this, you need to dilute 1 tablespoon of baking soda in water. To make the effect more obvious, it is advisable to do the procedure daily for 20 minutes for 14 days.

The mother’s well-being, her mood and psychological state directly affect the child’s health. If beautiful nails make you a little happier, then you can extend them. Just remember to consult a specialist before doing this and do not use cheap materials.