Nail products can contain potentially harmful ingredients, but by law, they must be safe for consumers when used according to directions on the label or in the usual or customary way. Here are some details about nail products:
Ingredients or Materials:
- Nail products can contain potentially harmful ingredients, such as toluene, formaldehyde, and DPB.
- Artificial nails are composed primarily of acrylic polymers, such as ethyl methacrylate monomer, with acrylic polymers, such as polymethylmethacrylate.
- Some common nail product ingredients include acetonitrile in artificial nail removers, aluminum powder, and phthalates.
- The EWG Skin Deep Cosmetic database gives Revlon a score of 3 and 6, which is in the moderately hazardous category.
Positive:
- Nail products are allowed on the market because they are safe when used as directed.
- By law, nail products sold in the United States must be safe for consumers when used according to directions on the label, or in the usual or customary way.
Negative:
- Nail products can contain potentially harmful ingredients that can affect worker health.
- Chemicals inside of the glues, removers, polishes, and salon products can be hazardous individually and when combined, they could potentially cause even greater harm.
- Ethyl methacrylate (EMA) is the main substance in artificial fingernails, which can cause allergies, asthma, and dermatitis.
It is important to use nail products safely, following labeled directions and paying attention to any warning statements. Good ventilation is also important when using nail products. If you have a reaction to a nail product, it is recommended to report it to the FDA.
