ALLERGIC REACTIONS
A contra-action that can be associated with nail treatments is an allergic reaction. Many nail products contain ingredients such as formaldehyde resin which may cause a reaction. Before the treatment, check whether the client is aware of any allergies they may have.
The nail plate is dead, so cannot develop allergies. However, the skin may suffer from sensitivities when the client touches it.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, swelling, inflammation and blistering at the site of contact followed by weeping, dryness and flaking of the skin. These symptoms may take up to 48 hours to surface.
If a client does react to any products during treatment, remove the substance immediately with water or nail varnish remover (if it is a reaction to a varnish) and apply a cooling lotion. Make a note of the reaction on the client’s record card and advise the client to seek medical advice.
CONTACT DERMATITIS
Contact dermatitis is similar to eczema in appearance but it is usually caused by a reaction or allergy to something in contact with the skin either during the treatment (contra-action) or they may already show symptoms prior to treatment (contra-indication). The client should be referred to their GP for advice and should not be treated.
Nail technicians must always be aware that they are vulnerable to contact dermatitis and should always follow the supplier’s guidelines for the correct use of products. Consult your GP if you suspect you could be suffering from contact dermatitis.
TREATING DIABETIC CLIENTS
If a client advises you that they are diabetic, you must take extra care when offering a nail treatment. Nails must only be filed with a non-metal emery board and do not use clippers or scissors to cut cuticles or nails. Diabetic clients are more prone to infection and so sterilisation and hygiene are paramount. A diabetic client will need to obtain their GP’s written consent prior to the treatment going ahead. Do not treat a diabetic client who is experiencing a lack of sensation in the area to be treated; refer them to their GP.
OVEREXPOSURE / EXO-THERMIC REACTION
A higher temperature will speed up the process of curing and can create a sensation of heat on the nail. It is too small to be felt by the nail in most cases. This can also create a brittle overlay which will have weak areas. To get best results, work under room temperature conditions and do not work under desk lamps which can get very hot.
BACTERIAL INFECTIONS
Commonly seen in nail enhancements, a bacterial infection is caused by an overlay lifting from the nail plate and bacteria entering this space. As the space is warm and moist, the environment is perfect for the bacteria to grow. This is seen as an area that is discoloured and starts off as faint yellow and can progress to a dark green. If treated early, there will be no long lasting damage. However, if it is left, it can destroy the nail plate. You will need to remove the existing overlay and sanitise the nail plate. You should not apply any new product until the infection has cleared and the nail plate has recovered.
NAIL SHAPE & SKIN CONDITION
You should note down the condition of the client’s nails and skin around the nails on the client’s record card. If there is any indication of a skin or nail condition, regardless of whether it will restrict treatment or not, it must be noted down on the client’s record card.