A woman gained popularity on TikTok after posting a video of her nail technician removing her “cat eye” manicure at the hospital before undergoing an emergency MRI scan. The video, with nearly 1 million likes, has raised concerns about the magnetic nail trend. People Magazine spoke with a radiologist and nail artists about the risks and alternatives of this popular manicure trend.
In a unique scenario, an influencer named Kristina Provenzano found herself needing an urgent gel removal at the hospital after a sudden back injury, just before an unscheduled MRI scan. Her viral TikTok video showcased her manicurist, who also happens to be a close friend, carefully removing the gel polish that contained magnetic particles, prompting a discussion about potential risks.
Provenzano’s video, viewed over 8.6 million times, warned viewers about the dangers of having magnetic particles in nail polish during medical procedures. She shared her experience of doctors discovering the issue as they prepared her for the MRI scan, highlighting the importance of disclosing all possible metallic or magnetic elements in or on the body.
Although Provenzano didn’t expect the video to gain such widespread attention, it sparked conversations about the safety implications of magnetic nail trends. Experts, including Dr. Jenny Wu from the Cleveland Clinic and celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec, highlighted the potential risks associated with metallic particles in nail polish during MRI scans. They emphasized the importance of consulting with radiologists or technicians for guidance on the safety of nail adornments during medical procedures.
“They aim to ensure that you receive the most accurate exam for a proper diagnosis in the safest manner possible.”Don’t miss out on any stories – subscribe to PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter for the latest updates on everything PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to inspiring human interest stories. If you’re considering ways to maintain your manicure during a medical procedure, Wu advises that covering your hands and feet “will not eliminate potential risks,” so it’s best to remove the nail polish. However, there is a solution to achieve the appearance of “cat eye” nails that can be beneficial for individuals undergoing an MRI or surgery.Kandalec, who counts Emily Blunt, Camila Cabello, and Jessica Chastain among her clients, suggests using a clear builder gel polish with a non-wipe top coat, such as Gelish’s soak-off polish, followed by a magnetic regular lacquer. This way, the client can easily remove the metallic polish themselves with acetone the day before surgery without affecting the base coat.Overall, the discussion regarding the potential risks associated with the “cat eye” trend coincides with a 20% rise in demand for the style, according to Krystal Oh, celebrity nail artist and founder of Krystal Oh Nails studio.Aside from the potential harm it may cause in more serious scenarios, Oh also cautions about the possible side effects of “cat eye” polish on a client, even when worn daily. “It’s essential to be mindful of contact dermatitis, gel allergies, and chemical exposure during removal,” she advises.Read the original article on People
