Gel or acrylic nails have long been a focus of attention when it comes to hygiene and sterility requirements in the medical field. Particularly in human and veterinary medicine, the following key questions arise:
A breeding ground for bacteria?
Traditionally, it was assumed that (gel) nail polish or artificial nails could potentially trap germs. Microorganisms could colonize under the nail plate and along any cracks in the polish or at the transitions between acrylic/gel and the cuticle. However, recent studies in veterinary medicine, including the 2021 study by Anderson et al., have shown that gel nail polish does not significantly increase the bacterial load after surgical hand disinfection—provided that the disinfection is performed correctly and according to current standards.
Risk of injury due to nail length
Gel or acrylic nails are often worn longer than natural nails. The longer the nail, the more difficult it becomes to effectively clean the area underneath. Furthermore, the longer the nail, the greater the risk of breakage or a glove tearing. Studies show that short nails (<2 mm length) They are significantly easier to keep clean and reduce the number of viable bacteria after disinfection.
Crucial role of hand disinfection
Thorough surgical hand disinfection is and remains the key factor. Whether or not gel nail polish is worn, the risk of surgical wound infections generally increases if hygiene protocols are not followed. Typical protocols include cleaning under the nail with a disposable pick, brushing hands and forearms up to the elbows with an antiseptic solution, and consistently adhering to the prescribed contact time.
In summary, it can be said: Gel or acrylic nails do not inherently pose an increased risk of infection., Provided they are applied correctly, kept short, and cleaned thoroughly. Proper and consistent surgical hand hygiene is crucial to protecting patients in small animal surgery.

Nail length is a key factor influencing the number of germs under and around the nails. Studies show:
Higher germ reservoir
Every extra millimeter of nail length provides bacteria with additional niches in which they can settle and multiply. A warm, moist microclimate often develops, especially under the free edge of the nail, which promotes bacterial growth.
More difficult cleaning
Thoroughly removing dirt and microorganisms from longer nails is more time-consuming. Even when using an antiseptic brush, it is tedious to reach every crevice, especially if the nails are reinforced with gel or acrylic.
Risk of glove perforation
Longer nails increase the likelihood of surgical gloves tearing. If bacteria get inside the gloves, this creates an additional source of contamination.
Evidence from research
Recent research findings, such as those by Anderson et al. (2021), demonstrate that a shorter nail length (<2 mm) correlates with a significantly lower bacterial count after surgical hand disinfection. This applies regardless of whether gel polish is worn or not.
Conclusion:
Keeping nails shorter than 2 mm is one of the most important preventative measures in surgical practice. Even with optimal hand disinfection, nail length is a significant factor for effective germ control.

Several recognized methods exist for surgical hand disinfection. Essentially, two main categories can be distinguished: traditional washing methods and alcohol-based liniments. Here's an overview:
Traditional washing method
Substances used: Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) 4 % or povidone iodine.
Procedure:Keep nails short and clean them with a sterile nail pick.
Thoroughly brush your hands, nails, between your fingers and forearms up to your elbows for at least 5 minutes.
Final rinse under running water.
Advantages: Standard procedure, thorough mechanical cleaning.
Disadvantages: Skin irritation is possible due to intensive brushing; time commitment is relatively high.
Alcohol-based liniments
Substances used: Mostly alcohol-based solutions (e.g., isopropanol/ethanol) with nourishing and moisturizing components, often additionally enriched with chlorhexidine or other antimicrobial agents.
Procedure:First, mechanical cleaning of the nail beds and under the fingernails (often with a dry brush or nail cleaner).
Drying hands.
Apply a specific amount of disinfectant solution several times for the time specified by the manufacturer (e.g. 3 to 5 minutes).
Advantages: Faster, gentler on the skin, and, when used correctly, very effective germ killing.
Disadvantages: Requires strict adherence to the correct time and quantity schedule.
Influence on gel nails
Both methods allow for a hygienically safe result using short gel or acrylic nails.
The crucial point is that thorough cleaning under the nail. Gel nail polish should be free of cracks or chips to prevent germs from accumulating there.
According to various studies, alcohol-based rubs appear to be just as effective against bacteria as, or in some cases even more effective than, soap or brush methods. However, it is important to adhere to the recommended contact time.
Recommendation:
Whether you choose a traditional washing method or an alcohol-based procedure depends on clinic guidelines, personal preference, and skin tolerance. Gel nails are possible in both cases – provided hygiene protocols are strictly followed.

Yes, there are some aspects in which gel nail polish differs from conventional polish that can play a role in hygiene:
Application and curing
Gel polish is usually applied in several layers and cured under UV or LED light. This creates a harder, less porous surface that is less prone to chipping.
Conventional nail polish is more porous and can more easily crack or peel, especially with repeated contact with disinfectants or cleaning agents.
Adhesion and durability
Gel polish often adheres longer and forms a smooth, resistant surface. Theoretically, this could mean that... fewer crevices for germs This occurs if the paint layer remains intact.
Ordinary paint is more prone to chipping, which can provide shelter for microorganisms.
Removal and care
Gel polish usually requires a special acetone bath or wrap for complete removal. Improper removal can damage the nail surface, leading to ridges and unevenness. These rough areas, in turn, provide potential surfaces for bacteria to adhere to.
Traditional nail polish is easier to remove, but needs to be reapplied more frequently.
Effects on nail health
Prolonged use of gel polish can lead to dryness of the nail plate or thinning of the nails. If porous or cracked nails are not treated properly, the risk of infection increases.
Bottom line:
Both variants have advantages and disadvantages regarding shelf life and potential microbial contamination. For clinical practice, the most important factor is... Condition of the nail surface and the nail length Crucial. An intact gel polish, combined with careful hand disinfection, can even be advantageous, as it reduces flaking. However, always ensure that there are no cracks or detached areas in the gel polish.

The following points are essential if you or your staff wish to wear gel nails in a clinical setting:
Regular nail checks
Check for cracks, chips, and loose parts. Even small gaps can provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
If damage occurs, the gel polish should be renewed immediately or completely removed.
Professional manicure
A visit to a licensed beautician or a salon-trained professional on the team ensures that the gel layers are applied and sealed correctly.
This reduces the risk of air pockets or unclean edges that promote germs.
Maintaining the nail length
Keep your nails short (less than 2 mm in length). Even the best gel polish is no substitute for proper nail trimming.
Short nails allow for easier and more thorough cleaning with antiseptic solutions.
Strict hand hygiene
Regardless of whether you have gel polish or natural nails, proper surgical hand disinfection is essential.
Always use a sterile nail pick, an antiseptic brush (or alcohol-based rub) and adhere to the recommended times (e.g. 3–5 minutes).
Combination with disposable gloves
Sterile disposable gloves are standard practice in small animal surgery. Ensure you use the correct size and replace any damaged gloves immediately.
During long operations, regularly check that the gloves are still intact.
Ongoing training of the team
Ensure that all team members are informed about the latest study results and hand hygiene protocols.
Regularly emphasize the importance of nail length, disinfection techniques, and the correct application of nail polish.
Conclusion:
Gel nails can exhibit an acceptable level of hygiene and safety in everyday clinical practice, provided certain conditions are met: Professional application, short nail length, regular polish checks, and proper hand disinfection. This will reduce the risk of surgical wound infections and ensure a high standard in small animal surgery.