Gel Polish Allergy: Signs, Causes and What to Do

Most people have no trouble with gel, but some develop itching, redness or blisters around the nails after many sets. This can be an allergy to gel ingredients. General information only — see a dermatologist if you have symptoms.

Signs

• Itchy, red, swollen skin around the nails, hours to days after a set.
• Peeling, cracking or small blisters.
• Nails lifting from the bed, tender to press.
• Sometimes itching on eyelids, face or neck from touching.

Allergy rarely appears the first time; sensitisation builds with repeated contact.

Causes

Usually acrylate monomers such as HEMA in uncured gel touching the skin: gel flooding the cuticle, under-cured thick layers or the wrong lamp, dust from under-cured gel, or DIY gel at home.

What to do

1. Have the gel removed properly and tell the technician.
2. Stop gel until the skin heals.
3. See a dermatologist; a patch test can identify the allergen.

Do not keep going "to get used to it" — reactions usually worsen.

Reducing risk

Gel must never touch the skin; thin layers fully cured with the right lamp; genuine products with clear ingredients — VESSCA uses brands chosen and brought from Korea; avoid DIY gel. If you are allergic, you can still enjoy polish-free care: cuticle care 60,000₫ or a 30-minute Hand Ritual 250,000₫.

VESSCA is at 251/30 Le Quang Dinh, Gia Dinh ward (Binh Thanh), Ho Chi Minh City, open 9:00–20:30 daily.