¿Productos para las uñas sin gluten?

Pregunta:

¿Existen productos sin gluten para las uñas? Recientemente una clienta había utilizado un fortalecedor de uñas polaco en las uñas, pero descubrió que contenía gluten, al que es intolerante. No tuvo ninguna reacción, pero no sabía si era seguro seguir usándolo.

Respuesta:

Understanding Gluten in Nail Products

Gluten cannot be absorbed through the skin or nails, so using esmalte de uñas or treatments containing gluten will not cause a reaction through skin contact alone. Scientific evidence, including research on skin permeability, confirms that gluten molecules are too large to penetrate the skin barrier.

Doug Schoon, a leading scientific expert in the beauty industry, explains:

“There is no scientific evidence to support claims that gluten can absorb through the skin. Gluten molecules are too large to penetrate the skin barrier, and they tend to bond tightly to the skin’s surface rather than absorbing.”

When Gluten in Nail Products Might Be a Concern

En absorción cutánea is not an issue, the main concern with gluten in nail products is accidental ingestion. People frequently touch their mouths, eat with their hands, or may have habits like nail-biting or cutícula-picking. If a nail product contains gluten, there is a possibility that small amounts could be transferred to the mouth over time, potentially causing a reaction in those with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.

Additionally, products like aceites para cutículas, hand creams, and lip balms can linger on the skin even after washing and may contribute to unintended ingestion.

What About Lip Products?

Lipstick, lip gloss, and lip balm should be gluten-free for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. These products are directly applied to the lips and are inevitably ingested in small amounts throughout the day. Some studies estimate that people ingest between 4–9 pounds of lipstick over a lifetime, making gluten-free formulations particularly important for those with gluten intolerance.

Gluten-Free Considerations for Nail Products

For most people, gluten in nail products is not a risk, as it cannot be absorbed through the skin. However, for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity who frequently touch their mouths or bite their nails, opting for gluten-free nail products may provide peace of mind and reduce any risk of accidental ingestion. Lip products, in particular, should always be gluten-free if the user is sensitive.

If you have a severe reaction to gluten, checking ingredient lists and choosing certified gluten-free beauty products is always a good precaution.