If you’re living with psoriasis, you may wonder if gel manicures or pedicures are safe. Many MyPsoriasisTeam members have asked whether gel nail treatments can worsen psoriasis symptoms or lead to other problems.

The answer isn’t the same for everyone, but learning about the risks and benefits can help you decide what’s best for your nails.

How Does Psoriasis Affect the Nails?

Psoriasis doesn’t just affect your skin — it can also change the look and feel of your fingernails and toenails. Studies show that between 50 percent and 79 percent of people with skin psoriasis and 80 percent of people with psoriatic arthritis have nail symptoms.

Common Nail Psoriasis Symptoms

Nail psoriasis can cause several visible changes, including:

• Nail pitting — Small dents or holes in the nail surface
• Brittle nails — Nails that break or crumble easily
• Onycholysis — Separation of the nail plate from the nail bed
• Discoloration — Yellow, brown, or white patches
• Subungual hyperkeratosis — Chalky buildup under the nail

These symptoms can make your nails more prone to damage during manicures and pedicures. They may also raise your risk of infections, including bacterial infections underneath gel nails.

Are Gel Manicures Safe for Psoriasis?

Some people with nail psoriasis want to cover discoloration, pitting, or other symptoms with treatments like gel manicures. Gel nails are applied in a three-step process that layers a base coat, nail polish, and top coat on natural nails. Each layer is hardened under an ultraviolet (UV) light.

Although regular nail polish and gentle buffing can be safe options for some people with nail psoriasis, there’s some disagreement about gel manicures. One study found that basic gel nails can be a good option for hiding cosmetic nail changes, as long as you’re not sensitive to the chemicals used.

The American Academy of Dermatology warns that artificial nails may increase the risk of onycholysis or even trigger a psoriasis flare-up.

Potential Dangers of Gel Nails

Opinions are mixed on whether gel manicures are safe for people with psoriasis. However, there are several risks to consider.

UV Light Exposure

Similar to tanning beds, UV lamps used to harden gel polish emit UV radiation. Although the exposure is brief and limited to your hands or feet, it could still raise your risk of skin aging and skin cancer.

Chemical Sensitivity

Certain gel polish chemicals can cause allergic reactions like rashes and hives. Other chemicals can make nails dry and brittle, which may make psoriasis symptoms worse. The products that remove gel manicures may also injure the nail plate. If you’ve had flares from harsh chemicals before, gel manicures might not be right for you.

Koebner Phenomenon

Some people with psoriasis experience the Koebner phenomenon — when psoriasis appears in areas of skin injury. The nail preparation process, including pushing or trimming cuticles, can cause small injuries that may trigger this response.

Keep in mind that everyone’s experience is different. Some people can tolerate gel manicures well. One MyPsoriasisTeam member described getting regular manicures: “I have mine done with gel every three weeks. My skin causes me so much angst … at least having pretty nails makes me feel better. I have my toes done for the summer, and if anything, it seems to strengthen my toenails, as they can come off easily if knocked (and they look nicer with gel).”

“When I absolutely must be vain, I use press-on nails for the occasion,” another member said. “I put them on just before I leave and take them off, usually in the car on the way home. They make me feel good at least temporarily.”

Be sure to talk with your doctor about nail treatment options before getting a manicure or pedicure, especially if it involves gel polish.

Why Are Gel Nails an Infection Risk?

Gel nails can raise the risk of infection in several ways:

• Trapped moisture — Gel creates a seal that can trap water and bacteria.
• Nail or cuticle damage — Rough application or removal of gel polish, along with cuticle trimming, can create entry points for bacteria.
• Longer wear time — Gel nails stay on for weeks, giving bacteria more time to multiply.
• Poor salon hygiene — Unsterilized tools can spread infections.

What Is a Bacterial Infection Under Gel Nails?

A bacterial infection under gel nails happens when bacteria, such as Pseudomonas, grow in tiny gaps on the nail plate. Clean towels and proper hand-washing — by both you and the manicurist — before starting a manicure can help prevent gel nail infections.

Signs of a bacterial infection under the nails may include:

• Green or black discoloration under the nail
• Pain and swelling around the nail
• Skin that’s warm to the touch or discolored
• Pus or discharge
• Wavy ridges on the nail bed
• Nails that lift or fall off

If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor right away. Treating an infection can help stop it from getting worse.

Are Acrylics or Other False Nails Safe for Psoriasis?

Acrylic nails are made by applying a liquid acrylic mixture to nails, filing it to a natural shape, and finishing with a base coat, polish, and top coat. Gel polish can also be applied on top if desired.

In general, acrylic nails and other artificial nail options aren’t recommended for people with psoriasis. The application process can make your natural nail more likely to separate from the nail bed, increasing the risk of an infection under the nail.

One member shared this advice about acrylic nails and psoriasis: “I’m a level 3 qualified nail technician. It’s not advisable to have acrylics due to the harsh chemicals, which can cause a reaction. But if you want your nails done, I can recommend that you go for a light buffing of the nails to help with pitting. Don’t use or allow the use of a file with less than 240 grit. Try polish for a coat or to help with strength. I would suggest a gel polish application with an acid-free primer and regular monitoring for any lifting.”

Long nails, especially those enhanced by false nails, can also cause problems for people with nail psoriasis. If you do get acrylics, it’s best to choose shorter styles that don’t extend past the edge of your natural nails.

Safe Manicure and Pedicure Tips for Psoriasis

If you have psoriasis and want to get your nails done, here are a few nail care tips:

Choose the Right Salon

Check out the salon’s cleanliness standards ahead of time, and ask if they’ve worked with people who have sensitive skin conditions. Check that they sterilize all their tools, or let you bring your own, to help cut down your infection risk.

Communicate With Your Nail Technician

Be up front about your psoriasis, and consider explaining that it’s not contagious. Point out any affected nails or areas that need extra gentle care, and ask them to avoid aggressive cuticle cutting.

Pick a Different Polish

If gel and acrylic nails aren’t a good fit for you, try regular polish. You can ask your dermatologist about prescription nail treatments or medicated polishes. Some nail-strengthening treatments may also improve nail appearance over time.

Opt for At-Home Care

Gently buffing your nails and moisturizing your hands at home could smooth your nails and improve their appearance. Doing your nails yourself ensures that you’re using sterilized tools and a gentle technique to protect the surrounding skin.

When To See Your Doctor

Consult your healthcare provider or dermatologist if you have:

• New or worsening nail psoriasis symptoms
• Signs of an infection, including pain, swelling, discharge, or an unusual odor
• A severe reaction to a nail product or treatment

Your doctor can recommend treatments for nail psoriasis and help you choose the safest nail care routine for your needs.

Join the Conversation

On MyPsoriasisTeam, people share their experiences with psoriasis, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

How do you approach manicures and nail care with psoriasis? Let others know in the comments below.