Adorning nails with vibrant nail polish can be a bold statement or a even creative hobby for many individuals. However, not everyone is suited to these beauty products. 

If you've noticed adverse reactions whenever you wear nail polish, it might be a sign of an allergic reaction. 

Allergies can stem from various triggers present in nail polish ingredients, so it's essential to recognize these signs early on and consult with a dermatologist or allergist if you suspect you're allergic to nail polish. They can perform patch tests or other diagnostic procedures to identify the specific allergens causing your reactions.

But first, below are the signs that you're allergic to nail polish. Understanding these signs can help you take appropriate steps to protect your skin and overall health.

1. Redness and swelling around fingertips

Two of the earliest signs of an allergic reaction to nail polish are redness and swelling around the fingertips, according to DermNet. The redness can be localized or spread across a larger area, indicating an inflammatory response to the chemicals present in the polish.

3. Blistering around nails

Allergic reactions to nail polish can lead to blistering around the nails or the affected area in severe cases, according to Curex. These blisters can cause discomfort or pain. It's important not to pop these blisters as it can increase the risk of infection.

4. Itchy skin

Itchy skin is another common sign of an allergic reaction to nail polish, as per Penn Medicine Becker ENT and Allergy. If you experience persistent itching after applying nail polish, it could indicate an allergic response.

5. Dry, thickened nails

In severe cases of allergic reactions to nail polish, especially with gel and acrylic manicures, symptoms may include paronychia (infection around the nail), thickened nails, and dry nail plates, as noted by a 2021 study published in Allergies.