Gel or acrylic nails have long been the focus when it comes to hygiene and sterility requirements in the medical field. The following key questions arise in particular in human and veterinary medicine:
breeding ground for bacteria?
Traditionally, it was assumed that (gel) nail polish or artificial nails could potentially bind germs. Mikroorganisms can settle under the nail plate and along any cracks in the paint or at the transitions of acrylic/gel to the cuticle. Recent studies in veterinary medicine, including the work of Anderson and College published in 2021: However, it has shown that gel nail polish does not significantly increase the germ load after surgical hand disinfection-provided that disinfection is carried out correctly and according to current standards.
The risk of injury due to nail length
is often worn gel or acrylic nails longer than natural nails. The longer the nail is, the more difficult it becomes to effectively clean the area under the nail. In addition, the nail length increases the risk that the nail breaks or a glove tears. Studies show that short nails (<2 mm length) are much easier to keep clean and reduce the number of viable bacteria after disinfection.
The decisive role of hand disinfection
A thorough surgical hand disinfection is and remains the key factor. Whether with or without gel nail polish-if the hygiene protocols are not observed, the risk of surgical wound infections generally increases. The typical protocols include cleaning under the nail with a once pick, brushing hands and forearms to the elbow with an antiseptic solution and consistent compliance with a prescribed exposure time.
Overall, it can be said: gel or acrylic nails are not an increased risk of infection per se , as long as they are applied properly, kept briefly and conscientiously cleaned. Correct and consistent surgical hygiene is crucial to protect the patient: inside in small animal surgery.

The nail length is a central factor in relation to the number of germs below and around the nails. Studies show:
Higher germ reservoir
Each millimeter more nail length offers bacteria additional niches in which you can settle and multiply. Especially under the free nail edge, there is often a warm -warm microclimate that promotes growth.
Difficult cleaning
with longer nails is more complex to remove dirt and microorganisms. Even when using an antiseptic brush, it is tedious to reach every crack, especially when nails are reinforced with gel or acrylic.
Risk of glove perforation
Longer nails increase the likelihood that surgical gloves tear. If bacteria get into the inside of the glove, an additional source of contamination is created.
Evidence from research
Current examination results, such as that of Anderson et al. (2021), prove that a shorter nail length (<2 mm) correlates with a significantly lower number of bacteria after the surgical hand disinfection. This applies regardless of whether gel paint is worn or not.
Conclusion:
shortening the nails to a maximum of 2 mm is one of the most important preventive measures in surgical practice. Even with optimal hand disinfection, nail length is a factor for effective germ control that should not be underestimated.

There are several recognized procedures for surgical hand disinfection. Essentially, two main categories can be called: traditional washing methods and alcohol -based rubbing . Here is an overview:
traditional washing method
used substances: chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) 4 % or povidon iodine.
Process: keep nails short and clean with a sterile nail pick.
Thorough brushes of the hands, nails, finger spaces and forearms to the elbow over at least 5 minutes.
Finally rinsing under running water.
Advantages: familiar procedure, thorough mechanical cleaning.
Disadvantages: skin irritation through intensive brushes possible; Time required relatively high.

Substances used alcohol -based inserts mostly alcohol -based solutions (e.g. isopropanol/ethanol) with nourishing and filling components, often additionally enriched with chlorhexidine or other antimicrobial active ingredients.
Process: First mechanical cleaning of the nail beds and under the fingernails (often dry brush or nail cleaner).
Dry the hands.
Rub several times with a certain amount of the disinfection solution via the time specified by the manufacturer (e.g. 3 to 5 minutes).
Advantages: faster, more gentle, when used correctly, very effective germ killing.
Disadvantages: requires strict attention to the correct time and quantity scheme.

A hygienically safe result can be achieved with short gel or acrylic nails
. thorough cleaning under the nail is crucial . Gel nail polish should be free of cracks or flaps so that no germs accumulate there.
According to various studies, alcohol-based inserts seem to have a similar effect on bacteria compared to soap or brush methods or sometimes even better. However, it is important that the contact time is adhered to.
Recommendation:
Whether you choose a traditional washing method or an alcohol -based process depends on clinic guidelines, personal preferences and skin tolerance. Gel nails are possible in both cases-if hygiene protocols are consistently followed.

Yes, there are some aspects in which gel nail polish differs from conventional paint that can play a role for hygiene:
the order and curing
gel paint are usually applied in several layers and hardened under UV or LED light. This creates a harder, less porous surface, which can be less susceptible to splintering.
Conventional nail polish is more porous and can show slight cracks or dislocations, especially with repeated contact with disinfection or cleaning agents.
Liability and durability
gel lacquer often adheres longer and forms a smooth, resistant surface. Theoretically, this can mean that fewer columns are created for germs if the paint layer remains intact.
With ordinary paint, it is more often to split up, which can offer shelter to microorganisms.
Removal and care
GEL -LACK usually requires a special acetone bath or wrap to be completely removed. In the event of improper distance, the nail surface can be damaged, which can lead to grooves and bumps. These rough places in turn offer bacteria possible liability areas.
Traditional nail polish is easier to remove, but has to be applied at shorter intervals.
Effects on the nail health
in the long use of gel lacquer can be dried out of the nail plate or too thinner nails. If porous or cracked nails are not treated correctly, the risk of infection increases.
The bottom line:
Both variants have advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability and potential germ load. condition of the nail surface and the nail length is particularly crucial. An intact gel lacquer, combined with careful hand disinfection, can even be advantageous because less peeling occurs. However, always make sure that there are no cracks or detached areas on the gel paint.

The following points are essential if you or your staff want to wear gel-nails in the clinical environment:
to regular control of the nails
pay attention to cracks, splinters and loosely. Even small gaps can offer bacteria an ideal breeding ground.
If damage occurs, the gel paint should be immediately renewed or completely removed.
Professional manicure
A visit to a licensed beautician or a socially trained professional in the team ensures that the gel layers are applied correctly and sealed.
In this way, you reduce the risk of air pollution or unclean edges that promote germs.
Compliance with the nail length,
keep the nails short (<2 mm nail length). Even the best gel lacquer does not replace a decent reduction.
Short nails enable easier and more thorough cleaning with antiseptic solutions.
Strict hand hygiene,
regardless of gel lacquer or natural nails, is indispensable for correct surgical hand disinfection.
Always use a sterile nail pick, an antiseptic brush (or alcohol -based rubber) and adhere to the recommended times (e.g. 3–5 minutes).
Combination with disposable gloves
in small animal surgery are sterile disposable gloves standard. Pay attention to the right size and change gloves immediately in the event of damage.
During long operations, regularly check whether the gloves are still intact.
Continuous training of the team
ensure that all team members are informed about the current study results and protocols on hand hygiene.
Regarding the importance of nail length, disinfection techniques and the correct use of nail polish.
Conclusion:
Gel nails can have an acceptable hygiene and safety level in everyday clinical life as long as certain requirements are met: professional attachment, short nail length, regular control of the paint and correct hand disinfection. In this way you reduce the risk of surgical wound infections and ensure a high standard in small animal surgery.