If an allergic reaction occurs during a nail service, which action should you take first?

• A. Continue with the service as planned.
• B. Remove all nail products and apply a cool compress and soothing agent to the skin to reduce skin redness and irritation.
• C. Advise the client to seek medical advice from their GP immediately.
• D. Ignore and monitor.

Answer: (B)

When a client shows signs of an allergic reaction during a nail service, the immediate goal is to stop further exposure and soothe the affected skin. The best first step is to remove all nail products from the area and apply a cool compress along with a soothing agent to the skin. This rapidly reduces irritation and redness, limits ongoing contact with potential allergens, and provides relief while you assess the situation.

Continuing the service would keep introducing the allergen and could make symptoms worse, so it isn’t appropriate. Ignoring the reaction isn’t safe either. After the initial local treatment, you should consider advising the client to seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen, and escalate to emergency care if there are signs of a more serious reaction (such as swelling of the face or tongue or trouble breathing).