Is it safe to get nails done at a salon during pregnancy?
Based on 2 peer-reviewed studieshome
Verdict: Use Caution
Manicures yes, heavy chemical procedures no. Acetone and gel removers release VOCs.
What's actually in it
Nail salons have concentrated acetone, methyl methacrylate, toluene, formaldehyde, and solvents in the air. Gel manicures add UV lamps and stronger solvents for removal. Well-ventilated salons cut exposure dramatically.
What the research says
A 2025 screening study in Environ Sci Technol mapped salon chemistry. A 2025 study showed fragrance and solvent VOCs caused airway inflammation and lung injury in rats.
Pick a salon with good ventilation and open windows. Skip gel, acrylic, and dip powders during pregnancy: these require the strongest chemicals.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical signatures for household consumer products. | Environ Sci Technol | 2025 |
| Toxicological evaluation of VOCs emitted from scented candles. | Front Public Health | 2025 |
What to use instead
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