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Can You Have a Gel Mani or Pedi When You're Pregnant? All the Answers You Need

Written by: Merilin Notton

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Time to read 6 min

Every mum-to-be deserves some pampering and self-care during their pregnancy. But, naturally, you're a lot more cautious about what products you can and can't use than you were pre-baby bump. We do have some good news, though – you can still have gel nails!


While we can't speak for all nail techs and other polish brands, Mylee gel polish is most certainly safe for pregnant women to use. You can indulge in some much-needed me-time with the reassurance that you're not exposing your baby to anything harmful by using our products.


We've put together this guide to answer all your questions about getting gel nails while pregnant to help put your busy mind at ease and make more room for relaxation (we sure know you need it).

Can You Get Your Nails Done When You're Pregnant?

When you're pregnant, it can feel like there's a long list of things you can't do or shouldn't do that used to be perfectly fine before.


It's natural to be concerned about using any products on your body during pregnancy, but rest assured, Mylee gel polish is completely safe for expecting mothers – and most other gel polishes are, too (unless they state otherwise).


Unlike our skin, the nail plate isn't absorbent, so there's no danger of harmful chemicals being absorbed into your bloodstream through your nails. In fact, the nail plate is actually considered a ‘blocker’.


The gel polish simply sits on top of your nails, making it safe for use during pregnancy.


Our gels cure within as little as 60 seconds, which eliminates the chance of the polish penetrating further than the top layer of the nail plate.

Precautions to Take When Doing Your Gel Mani Pregnant

Even though using gel polish during pregnancy is generally safe, we do recommend following some extra precautions to ensure the health and safety of both you and your baby:

  • Do your nails in a well-ventilated area, making sure to crack open some windows and doors to help with wafting away any fumes.


  • If you find you're particularly sensitive to strong smells, it might be a good idea to pop on a face mask while you do your nails.


  • Always clean polish off your skin before curing. This isn't just a safety note for pregnant women, but for anyone using gel polish., as you're increasing your risk of irritation. Our Edit>Undo Pen is really handy for quick clean-ups.


  • Take extra care when removing gel polish. Acetone is a strong chemical and should be used in a well-ventilated area. If you're feeling unsure, it may be best to let a professional do the removal for you.


  • If you experience any skin irritation or reaction while using gel polish, stop use immediately and consult a doctor.

What About Gel Nail Extensions – Are They Safe While Pregnant?

The same goes for gel nail extensions. As long as the extensions are applied correctly and safely, you're safe to use them during pregnancy. This applies to our 5-in-1 Builder Gel, Fix 'N' Flash Tips, and Magic Extender Gel.


The formulas won't harm you or your baby, but the key is ensuring proper application and removal.

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Are Acrylic Nails Safe to Get While Pregnant?

Getting acrylic nails is a bit more of a grey area.


While there’s no concrete evidence that they're unsafe during pregnancy, there is the concern that the chemicals used in acrylic nails, such as methacrylate monomers, can be harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.


Additionally, some women may experience heightened sensitivity to these chemicals during pregnancy. It's always best to consult with your doctor before getting acrylic nails while pregnant.

Can You Get a Pedicure When Pregnant?

There is no difference in getting a gel pedi while pregnant compared to a gel mani, so the same rules apply. Be sure to use pregnancy-safe polishes, like Mylee, and do your pedi in a well-ventilated room to help reduce the strong smell.


Always follow proper application and removal steps, which you can find in our Full Gel Nail Polish Guide below.

Are Nail Lamps Safe to Use While Pregnant?

You're at no more risk of developing skin cancer from a UV nail lamp when pregnant than you are at any other time. In fact, the amount of UV exposure from a nail lamp is very minimal and considered safe, especially when compared to other common sources of UV rays like the sun.


However, if you are a little concerned or you want to be extra safe, you can wear sunscreen or protective gloves while getting a gel mani.


If using sunscreen or SPF, make sure not to get this on your nail plate, or clean it off before application with a solution like Prep & Wipe, as it'll prevent the polish from adhering to your nails.

The Verdict: Gel Nails Are A-Okay During Pregnancy

Overall, there’s no need to worry about getting gel nails while pregnant, so long as the polish you're using doesn't state that it's unsuitable for pregnancy.


Mylee gel polish is completely safe for expecting mums, so you can use our gels without worry. Plus, with our wide range of colours and long-lasting formula, you can still have beautiful nails and feel pampered during this special time.

If you have any questions or concerns about using our products (whether that's our gel polishes, waxes, or tints), please don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re always happy to provide information and guidance to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience with our products.

FAQs

Is a UV nail light safe during pregnancy?

It's safe to use a UV nail lamp to cure your polish during pregnancy. The UV isn't penetrating your stomach or womb, and the actual risk of using UV light to cure polish is very low.

Can I get my nails done while pregnant in the first trimester?

It's safe to get your nails done at any stage in your pregnancy if you follow proper precautions and use pregnancy-safe polish, like Mylee.

Is soaking nails in acetone safe during pregnancy?

We wouldn't recommend soaking your nails in a bowl of acetone, like many salons do to remove gel polish. Instead, soak acetone or an acetone-based product, like our Prep & Wipe, on a nail-wipe and wrap with foil for 10-15 minutes.

What is the best nail polish to use while pregnant?

Gel polish is the best form of nail polish to use during pregnancy, more specifically, pregnancy-safe gel polish like Mylee. Our gel polish cures in just 60 seconds under our Pro LED Lamp, and it won't penetrate the nail plate. Also, our polish is HEMA-free, so there's a reduced risk of allergic reactions. 

Merilin Notton

Merilin Notton

As the Head of Brand at Mylee, Merilin is a seasoned beauty industry professional with a strong passion for nail art. 

With a background as a licensed beautician and a track record of shaping and elevating beauty brands, Merilin is dedicated to empowering individuals to express themselves through nail art, making them a driving force behind Mylee's success in the beauty industry.

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