Revisiting Cutaneous Carcinogenic Risk From Ultraviolet Nail Polish Dryer Lamp Exposure

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-1-2025

Publication Title

Photodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine

Keywords

Humans, Ultraviolet Rays, Skin Neoplasms, Carcinoma, Squamous Cell, Melanoma, Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced, Nails

Abstract

BACKGROUND: There is concern among consumers and researchers about the potential risk of cutaneous malignancy associated with ultraviolet (UV) nail polish dryer lamps used to cure gel nail polish. In this review, we analyze the current literature on the safety of UV gel nail polish dryer lamps and their potential for cutaneous carcinogenesis.

METHODS: A review of the literature from OVID Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases was performed from inception to April 4, 2023 to identify studies pertaining to UV nail polish dryer lamps and cutaneous malignancies.

RESULTS: A total of 14 articles were included. Squamous cell carcinoma was described in 5 patients with a history of UV nail polish dryer lamp use. There were 2 in vitro studies on UV lamp effects on cultured primary cells and cell lines: 1 study found an increased risk of cytotoxicity and mutagenicity, and 1 study found negligible reductions in cell viability when exposed to irradiation appropriate for gel manicures. One study using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End-Results national cancer registry found no cases of melanoma associated with UV nail polish dryer lamps. Mathematical models were used to estimate the risk of carcinogenesis associated with using UV nail polish dryer lamps in 7 studies; 6 of 7 studies calculated minimal to no risk.

CONCLUSION: There is a lack of compelling evidence to support the carcinogenic potential of UV nail polish dryer lamps. Based on current evidence, we recommend photoprotection for individuals who anticipate using UV nail polish dryer lamps long-term.

Medical Subject Headings

Humans; Ultraviolet Rays; Skin Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell; Melanoma; Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced; Nails

PubMed ID

41094685

Volume

41

Issue

6

First Page

70060

Last Page

70060

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