Possible allergic reactions to ingredients in some types of nails and polishes

BTS Public statement on possible allergic reactions to Ingredients in some acrylic nails, gel nails, and gel polish nails. The logo of the British Toxicology Society is in the top right hand corner with graphics depicting spilt nail polish and stylised chemical structures. Ingredients in some acrylic nails, gel nails, and gel polish nails can cause allergic reactions in the skin. Skin reactions – known as allergic contact dermatitis – have been seen across the UK and Europe and can lead to serious health issues in certain people.
A description of skin sensitisation. The logo of the British Toxicology Society is in the top right-hand corner with graphics depicting stylised chemical structures throughout. Skin sensitisation is the term used to describe the process of developing these allergies. Skin sensitisation can occur when a chemical on the skin causes an immune system response in the body. If the person gets the chemical on their skin again, sometimes an allergic reaction can occur. This is a lifelong condition and these chemicals should be avoided.
The possible symptoms of an allergic reaction such as allergic contact dermatitis. The logo of the British Toxicology Society is in the top right-hand corner with a graphic depicting a large stylised chemical structure. Allergic reactions are different for different people. For some people this could involve nail loosening or a severe itchy rash around the nails. This rash could occur anywhere on the body where the nails and chemicals have had contact (face, neck, and sensitive areas). In a small number of people these reactions may cause breathing difficulties.
The causes and impact of reactions to chemicals identified in these products. The logo of the British Toxicology Society is in the top right-hand corner with graphics depicting stylised chemical structures throughout. Some of these reactions are caused by groups of chemicals found in the nail products, called (meth)acrylates. Other chemicals may include tosylamide and formaldehyde. Some gel nails and nail polishes contain these chemicals. If they are not used correctly and contact the skin they can cause allergic reactions as described. Outside of cosmetics, these ingredients are also found in surgical and dental products, such as hip implants and dentures.
Further information on the topic. The logo of the British Toxicology Society is in the top right-hand corner with graphics depicting stylised chemical structures throughout. The graphic provides further resource for review of this topic. The British Toxicology Society (BTS) is not responsible for, nor endorses, the content of external Internet sites. Links are provided for information and do not constitute acceptance or approval on the part of the BTS. Speak with your doctor (GP) or primary care provider. British Association of Dermatologists: https://www.bad.org.uk/dermatologists-issue-warning-about-uk-artificial-nail-allergy-epidemic/ Lipman, Z. M., & Tosti, A. (2021). Contact dermatitis in nail cosmetics. Allergies, 1(4), 225-232. Guenther, J., Norman, T., Wee, C. P., & Adler, B. L. (2024). A survey of skin reactions associated with acrylic nail cosmetics, with a focus on home kits: Is there a need for regulation? Dermatitis: Contact, Atopic, Occupational, Drug, 35(1), 49–54. https://doi.org/10.1089/derm.2023.0204

Speak with your doctor (GP) or primary care provider.

British Association of Dermatologists: https://www.bad.org.uk/dermatologists-issue-warning-about-uk-artificial-nail-allergy-epidemic/

Lipman, Z. M., & Tosti, A. (2021). Contact dermatitis in nail cosmetics. Allergies, 1(4), 225-232.

Guenther, J., Norman, T., Wee, C. P., & Adler, B. L. (2024). A survey of skin reactions associated with acrylic nail cosmetics, with a focus on home kits: Is there a need for regulation? Dermatitis: Contact, Atopic, Occupational, Drug, 35(1), 49–54. https://doi.org/10.1089/derm.2023.0204

Steunebrink, I. M., de Groot, A., & Rustemeyer, T. (2024). Contact allergy to acrylate-containing nail cosmetics: A retrospective 8-year study. Contact Dermatitis, 90(3), 262–265. https://doi.org/10.1111/cod.14475