Acrylates in nail polish: what is it and what are the dangers of permanent manicure?

We’ve seen how the nail world has taken a giant leap in recent years. nail arts amazing as encapsulated nails or nails that are a real blast jelly nails although these are just a few examples everything is great. just as we found many different techniques as it is, it can work real wonders with our nails. gel nails or semi-permanent nails enamels are more durable than classic onesand they need an LED or UV lamp to dry.

But nevertheless boomSome dermatological problems have also been added due to this. acrylatesa particular ingredient semi permanent nail polishes. Therefore, we wanted to clarify all the questions and doubts that this ingredient generates.

What does acrylate mean?

acrylates substances derived from petroleummade up of small molecules called monomers and has a low molecular weight. What these molecules do is (like the balls of a necklace) chain one after another and give way. polymers Thus, it creates larger molecules. And for that to happen, there has to be a chemical reaction known as polymerization, and it can be caused by ultraviolet radiation.

What do acrylates contain

Currently, there are many products that we have found to be made from acrylates. Their great versatility has made them very effective and widely used, because we can find them hard, soft, light, flexible… Therefore, they cover different types of materials. dental restoration materialshousehold items, orthopedic prostheses, paints, adhesives or in nail materials such as semi-permanent enamels among others.

What harm do acrylates do?

In recent years, it has been seen how the cases are. contact dermatitis due to the use of semi-permanent enamel or permanent manicure. This is clearly due to the products used to perform this type of manicure, enamels are the ones that attract the most attention.

Problem arises with acrylates in monomer or when the bonds between the monomers are not well formed, very Small Molecule, able to penetrate the skin and trigger an allergy. Therefore, drying semi-permanent enamels thoroughly under UV lamp is of great importance for the formation of monomers. polymers, a larger molecule it can no longer penetrate the skin.

The Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venerology (AEDV) states that acrylates in permanent enamels do not cause problems when dry (well polymerized). It’s a problem when this polish touches the skin, either on application or because the product is not fully cured. What can happen is that the skin recognizes this substance as an allergen and leads to an allergen. allergic contact dermatitis.

But beyond suffering from finger dermatitis, Dr.Gatica also explains: “A person who develops an allergy due to exposure in a purely aesthetic procedure, such as applying permanent enamel or other manicure techniques such as gel nails or acrylic nails, When dermatitis occurs, it is a specific problem in the fingers that will pass over time, but will not be allergic, this stays for life. If this person has to get a hip replacement in the future, for example, it may be rejected if it contains an acrylate in its composition”.

This is why GEIDAC (Spanish Contact Dermatitis and Skin Allergy Research Group) emphasizes the importance of good regulation: “There should be regulation mandating that manufacturers of healthcare products and medical devices declare each of the ingredients they contain and cooperate in investigating the health problems they cause. This way we will stop assuming that dermatitis is just an irritant and begin to understand that it is a real problem.”

Why do my fingers itch with acrylic nails?

As we said, in recent years dermatologists have seen how many cases there are. allergic contact dermatitis due to the use of semi-permanent or permanent enamel and even with the use of acrylic, gel or false nails. “Permanent enamels are responsible for the large number of sensitization cases that we have observed increasingly in recent years”provides Maria Elena Gatica-OrtegaDermatologist member of GEIDAC.

Dermatitis is usually confined to the contact area, so if your fingers feel itchy after getting acrylic nails or using permanent nail polish, it’s likely an allergy to the acrylates found in these products. the feeling you can have burning, itching, peeling, hives and even blistersIn addition, it can even cause pain and become chronic. Although dermatitis usually occurs in areas where the product is applied, it can occur in other areas as well. if we carry monomers by touching other parts of the bodysuch as the face, eyes or neck.

Acrylics on semi-permanent nails

Enamels used to create semi-permanent or permanent manicures are often formulated with acrylates. From here both professionals and customers These services are among those who suffer most from allergic contact dermatitis. For this reason it is very important professionals wear gloves, to avoid contact with the product. It is very important that the enamel itself does not come into contact with the skin.

You also need to be very careful about drying. Nails must be thoroughly dry Use suitable lamps to avoid risks from monomers. recommended as a recommendation use barrier cream It acts as a shield barrier on the skin, never forgetting to touch it, without allowing the enamel to dry out.

Acrylate-free shopping enamels

So, if you are one of those who prefer to use glazes that do not contain acrylates or other harmful substanceshere we leave you a choice both classic enamel semi-permanently formulated without acrylates. Therefore, as we have seen, it is a great option to avoid all the problems they cause.

–Vernis Green Nail Polish ManicuristIt is bio-sourced, non-toxic and 84% bio-based and enriched with coconut oil and bamboo extract for strong and nourished nails. The price is 13.99 Euros.

–Nail Polish from 3INA MakeupThese polishes are light yet durable and highly pigmented. They are vegan and do not test on animals. The price is 5.95 Euros.

–Enamels ‘8 free’ LolaIt does not contain eight of the usual toxins in other brands such as acetone, camphor, phthalates, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, silicone, toluene and xylene. Its formula has diamond powder, which gives vitality and hardness to the nails. The price is 13 euros.

–nails. Inc Plant Power Nail Polish, the formulation of these nail polishes is 73% herbal origin formula and 21 free (free of formaldehyde, acetone, parabens and 18 other ingredients). All shades are vegan friendly and cruelty free. The price is 8.95 Euros.

–Mia Cosmetics nail polishIts formulation is 9-Free, formulated without harmful chemicals and against animal testing, plus its manufacturing processes minimize the impact on the environment. The finish is glossy and highly pigmented. The price is 6.60 Euros.

–OPI Nature StrongThese nail polishes are vegan with ingredients of natural origin based on plants that respect the skin and the environment. A range of 30 nail polishes designed to inspire and enhance the planet. Its durability is up to seven days of use. The price is 13.50 Euros.

–Benecos Happy Nails 20-Free, the formulation of these enamels is based on up to 90% natural origin ingredients derived from renewable natural raw materials. They are also 8-free, meaning they are free of triphenyl phosphates, toluene, resin, camphor, phthalates, parabens, silicones and organic halogen compounds, among other ingredients. The price is 4.65 euros.

–Semi-Permanent Enamel Kit 36+3A super set of 39 semi-permanent nail polishes, formulated with natural resin and healthy ingredients that do not harm the skin and do not have a low odor. Its effect lasts for up to three weeks and the finish is ultra-shiny.

The price is 33.99 Euros.

–Rosalind Gel Polish Set, this set includes a base, topcoat and matte finish. Both products are made from natural ingredients that do not harm the skin or have strong fragrances. Their durability is at least 14 days and they are easily removed. Its price is 9.99 euros.

–Set of 10 Gelfavor Semi-Permanent EnamelsThis kit contains enamels formulated with natural ingredients that do not harm the skin. They also promise durability of up to 20 days. The price is 12.99 Euros.

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Photo | @amyle.nails, @cndworld, @betina_goldstein