Acrylates, including ethyl acrylate, ethyl methacrylate, and methyl methacrylate, are widely utilized in artificial nail products. We encounter these chemicals primarily through inhalation and skin contact. Despite the documented adverse reactions associated with these substances—such as skin, eye, and throat irritations—they remain prevalent in nail care formulations.
What Are Acrylates?
Acrylates are chemical compounds derived from acrylic acid, extensively used in a variety of cosmetic nail preparations. Ethyl acrylate serves as an adhesive for affixing artificial nails and eyelashes, while ethyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate contribute to the shaping and adherence of artificial nails to the natural nail plate. Exposure typically occurs through direct skin contact or inhalation of vapors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that vapors from ethyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate can block air vents, underscoring the need for proper ventilation in nail salons, which can reduce ethyl methacrylate levels by as much as 90 percent.
A Brief History
Methyl methacrylate was the primary monomer used in acrylic nails during the early 1970s. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) required action after numerous consumer complaints about severe skin and nail reactions, resulting in the seizure of products containing 100% liquid methyl methacrylate in 1974. Consequently, ethyl methacrylate became the preferred ingredient, now constituting about 90% of most artificial nails and available in both professional products and home kits.
Common Sources of acrylates
Acrylates can primarily be found in: – Artificial nail products (acrylic nails, nail enhancing polishes)
What should you Look For on Labels
When reviewing product labels, look for the following acrylate ingredients: – **Ethyl Acrylate**: Also listed as acrylic acid ethyl ester or ethyl propenoate.
– Ethyl Methacrylate: Known as ethyl methacrylate, ethyl ester of methacrylic acid, or EMA.
– Methyl Methacrylate: Could be referred to as methacrylate monomer or MMA.
Health Concerns with acrylate exposure
1. Cancer Risk: Ethyl acrylate and methyl methacrylate are linked to cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classify ethyl acrylate as a possible human carcinogen. Occupational exposure to methyl methacrylate has been associated with increased colorectal cancer risks among acrylic manufacturing workers and heightened cancer mortality in orthopedic surgeons compared to their general surgery counterparts.
2. Developmental and Reproductive Toxicity: Research has indicated that exposure to ethyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate can lead to skeletal and limb deformities in the offspring of exposed rats, with higher doses correlating to greater malformations. Additionally, exposure has been shown to cause fluctuations in testosterone levels in male rats and reduce the size of seminal vesicle cells.
3. Organ-System Toxicity: Both ethyl acrylate and methyl methacrylate can adversely affect numerous organ systems, particularly the respiratory system. Inhalation of methyl methacrylate has been connected to lung disease, with accompanying damage to the nasal passages, liver, and kidneys. Animal studies have demonstrated lung damage resulting from chronic exposure to methyl methacrylate vapors.
4. Cellular and Neurological Damage: All three acrylates have the potential to damage cells and their genetic materials. They can induce cell death in specific lymphatic cells and disrupt neural communication in rats, leading to symptoms of nerve damage reported in workers exposed to methyl methacrylate.
5. Irritation and Sensitization: Acrylates can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Workers exposed to ethyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate have reported instances of work-related asthma. Prolonged exposure may result in skin sensitization, which often leads to allergic reactions that are challenging to manage once established. The combination of various acrylate-containing products can increase the likelihood of multiple allergic responses due to cross-reactivity. Ethyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate are particularly strong sensitizers, heightening the risk of sensitivity to other acrylate compounds. Re-exposure, even in different contexts such as medical procedures, may trigger severe allergic reactions.
Vulnerable Populations
Certain groups are particularly at risk, including: – Nail salon workers , Individuals regularly using artificial nails.
Regulations Landscape
While the FDA banned the use of 100% liquid methyl methacrylate in 1974, regulations do not restrict its use at lower concentrations in cosmetic products. Currently, at least 32 states in the U.S. have prohibited the professional use of methyl methacrylate in nail salons. Despite these restrictions, trace amounts of the substance continue to be found in artificial nail products. Recent air quality assessments in 12 randomly selected nail salons in Salt Lake City, Utah—where methyl methacrylate use is banned—revealed that 58% of the salons had detectable levels of the chemical in the air. Given the corrosive and skin-sensitizing properties of ethyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate, the Methacrylate Producers Association, Inc. has stated that these chemicals are unsuitable for use in artificial nail products. Nonetheless, they remain commonplace in many formulations.
How to Avoid Acrylates
To minimize your exposure to acrylates, consider the following strategies:
– Limit Use of Artificial Nails: Avoid artificial nails unless you can confirm that they do not contain acrylates. – Ensure Adequate Ventilation: Nail technicians should use ventilated manicure stations to help reduce harmful fumes.
– Wear Protective Equipment: It is advisable for nail technicians and consumers to wear appropriate safety masks and gloves. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends using NIOSH-approved filtering facepiece respirators (such as dust masks) and nitrile gloves during applications. Awareness of the potential hazards associated with acrylates can empower both consumers and professionals to make safer choices when it comes to nail care products and practices. By understanding the risks and implementing protective measures, you can reduce exposure to these potentially harmful chemicals.
References
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