Controversy: Are The UV Lights in Nail Salons Harmful?
Ahh, yes, after months of arguing with my manicurist about this very topic, it turns out that she is right, and I should shut up already and just put my hands under the dang UV dryer. According to Valerie Monroe, beauty director for Oprah magazine, the UVA light emitted is only 10-30 watts, which is significantly less than the 2400 watts or so emitted by a tanning bed. According to Monroe-interviewed dermatologist Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, M.D., this wattage isn’t strong enough to merit concern. Instead, the UV light accelerates the drying time of acrylics or gel wraps, and regular polish is protected from discoloration by a simple clear top coat, according to Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, executive vice president of OPI. One of my favorite nail topcoats is Sally Hansen Nail Miracle, which hardens nails, protects polish, and can be used as a base and top coat.
So it turns out that there is officially no need to worry about needing SPF after that manicure…at least not until you reach the outside light, that is. 
Hi,
This question has nothing to do with your post but, what do you think of taking niacinamide pill supplements, crushing them up and mixing them with a moisturizer and applying the mixture to your face? Is the concentration too high? I read somewhere (possibly here) that niacinamide is sometimes prescribed. Please let me know what you think of this idea!
Thanks for your time!
Comment by Stephanie | August 13, 2008