HEMA, Di - HEMA or BIS HEMA

The nail industry is currently one of the best career paths to embark on, thanks to the incredible array of fantastic products available on the market. Now more than ever, there is a heightened emphasis on education and the use of quality products and tools. However, despite its lucrative career opportunities and a welcoming nail community, this field can often feel isolating due to the nature of predominantly being self-employed. Moreover, the competitive atmosphere among brands supplying professional products and their ambassadors is often rife with fearmongering.

This is why Gellifique® Professional has never participated in the ambassadorship tactics and is dedicated to assisting nail technicians by providing them with the right information at their fingertips, enabling them to make informed choices. So, let's put aside the heated discussions in Facebook nail tech groups, the white bottles, the 'HEMA FREE is safer' marketing tactics, the affiliated marketing, and the so-called industry experts. Instead, if you are worried about nail allergies and keeping your customers safer let's focus on the facts.

Understanding the Chemical Makeup and Benefits of Common Ingredients in UV/LED Gel Nail Products:

The beauty industry, especially in the nail care segment, has seen remarkable advancements in product formulations. UV/LED gel nail products, known for their exceptional durability and quality, contain specific chemical ingredients that significantly contribute to their effectiveness. In this blog, we will delve into the chemical makeup and advantages of four key ingredients - HEMA, Di-HEMA, BIS-HEMA POLYNEOPENTYL GLYCOL ADIPATE/IPDI COPOLYMER, and BIS-HEA POLY(1,4-BUTANEDIOL)-9/IPDI COPOLYMER - while discussing their potential health hazard implications and the importance of professional handling.

HEMA

HEMA is a foundational monomer in UV/LED gel nail products. It enhances the bonding between the natural nail and gel overlay, thereby contributing to the durability, flexibility, and adhesion of the manicure.
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Di-HEMA

Di-HEMA, featuring a larger molecular structure, offers enhanced crosslinking capabilities. It fortifies the strength and durability of the nail product, preventing chipping and lifting.

BIS-HEMA POLYNEOPENTYL GLYCOL ADIPATE/IPDI COPOLYMER

This copolymer, combining neopentyl glycol adipate and IPDI, provides structural integrity and flexibility. Its larger molecular size contributes to the durability and robustness of the nail coating.

BIS-HEA POLY(1,4-BUTANEDIOL)-9/IPDI COPOLYMER

This complex compound serves to enhance the nail product's resilience and adhesion. The inclusion of 1,4-butanediol and IPDI in its structure indicates a focus on strength and durability, making it a valuable component for long-lasting applications.

Health Considerations and Professional Use:

While these ingredients are crucial for achieving desired properties in UV/LED gel nails, they come with potential health concerns. All four - HEMA, Di-HEMA, BIS-HEMA POLYNEOPENTYL GLYCOL ADIPATE/IPDI COPOLYMER, and BIS-HEA POLY(1,4-BUTANEDIOL)-9/IPDI COPOLYMER - can be potential allergens. Continuous exposure to these chemicals might lead to skin sensitivities or allergic reactions.

In the argument regarding the safety of the latter three ingredients due to larger molecular sizes, it's important to consider that these sizes, especially in Di-HEMA and BIS-HEMA, may lead to difficulties in removal. This could result in prolonged skin exposure, possible residue with an outcome of a risk of allergic reactions or sensitivities, rather than being inherently safer.

It's important to understand that all products containing these and many other chemicals should be utilised by trained professionals only. Nail technicians, with their expertise in application and safety, can significantly reduce the risk of overexposure. They understand the necessity of using protective gear and maintaining a well-ventilated salon environment. As well as how to apply and remove products correctly. Applied by skilled technicians, the risks associated with these ingredients are effectively mitigated.

As consumers, it's crucial to entrust nail care to certified professionals who are adept at the safe application of these sophisticated chemical products. Meanwhile, as trained professionals, we should recognise these chemicals for what they are: substances intended for professional use only.