What Do Artificial Nails and Contact Lenses Hide?
A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan in the United States has warned of the dangers of artificial nails, which can harbor bacteria and fungi that cause infectious diseases. The researchers emphasized that handwashing in this case is not an effective way to eliminate these disease-causing germs. The danger of these nails lies in their use by nurses and healthcare workers in medical centers, as they may transfer harmful bacteria and fungi present on their nails to patients, thus contributing to the spread of diseases.
The study revealed the presence of harmful bacteria on the nails of 73% of nurses who use artificial nails, compared to only 32% of nurses who do not use them, before washing their hands. This significant difference remained even after washing hands with antimicrobial soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Another study warned of the dangers of using contact lenses without consulting a specialist, as they can cause permanent eye damage and may even lead to blindness. Researchers have found that colored contact lenses, worn for several hours, can cause permanent and irreversible damage to eye tissue in some individuals after just two hours of use. They can also cause corneal abrasions and scarring, which may lead to vision loss.
These lenses are sold online, in grocery stores, and even on the street, leading to contamination and increasing the risk. Even lenses fitted by a professional can pose a risk to the eye if they are not adequately sterilized or if they are used by more than one person.