## What is it made of? To find out whether gel polish is potentially harmful it’s important to look at the materials in it. There are several materials that can cause health issues: __Toluene (toluol):__ Solvent that is dangerous if inhaled, can cause kidney, liver, and bile duct problems __Formaldehyde:__ Negatively affects the immune system, liver, and dries the nail plate __Dibutyl phthalate:__ Although phthalates protect nail polish from peeling off, ===but phthalates are harmful to the endocrine system __Nitrocellulose:__ Needed to form a hard and smooth film on the nails, but irritates the bronchi and in asthmatics can cause an attack __Propylene glycol:__ preservative, but causes skin irritation While these sound harmful, the penetration of harmful substances through the nail plate when using gel nail polish is so small that even pregnant women are allowed to use it. The only danger is the inhalation of these substances, which is easy to avoid during application. ## Does gel nail polish ruin your nails? The most common argument against gel nail polish is that it can thin your nails. In fact, this can only happen if the manicurist removes the coating too roughly. The nail polish itself and its composition have nothing to do with it. ## Other considerations The most dangerous aspect is the heat lamp that dries the nails, which is like a tanning bed. The heat lamp can cause skin [burns](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=157), moles, and even [skin cancer](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=206) if used on a regular basis. In 2009, the journal Dermatology published a study that proved that systematic exposure of the skin to the LED lamp increases the risk of skin cancer. ## To use or not to use Gel nail polish is a great option for a vacation, a festive event, or as a support for a period of growing nails. However, it's not a good idea to wear it all the time. If you do decide to wear it year-round, take a break of 100 days or so every 6 to 8 months. It is during this period that the nail plate is completely renewed.