What should you know about onycholysis gel polish?

Onycholysis means the nail plate has separated from the skin beneath it. Gel preparation may involve buffing, chemicals, pressure, or forceful removal; these can aggravate a nail that is already lifting. A covered nail can also make it harder to notice colour changes or drainage. However, gel polish is not the only possible explanation: trauma, wet work, psoriasis, and fungal infection can look similar. A clinician may examine the nail and test it before treatment.

Remove products gently rather than peeling them off, then leave the affected nail free of gel, extensions, glue, and polish. Do not buff the surface or cut the attached nail. Trim only the loose edge, keep the area clean and dry, and wear gloves for wet or chemical work. Read about [Nail Fungus](/conditions/nail-fungus/) and [Nail Psoriasis](/conditions/nail-psoriasis/) if those causes are being considered.

Arrange an assessment if the gap expands, several nails lift, or the nail remains abnormal as it grows. Seek prompt care for increasing pain, redness, warmth, swelling, pus, bleeding, fever, or a persistent dark mark. [Nail Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/nail-surgery/) may be discussed only when a clinician finds a specific reason.

Could product irritation explain this pattern? Should the nail be tested for fungus? When can I safely return to gel polish, and how should I protect the nail meanwhile?