My latest conversation highlights another key member of the Nail Allergy Facebook group. Delia Caruso is a professional nail tech based in New Jersey. Delia grew up in the beauty industry and knew a career in beauty was her path all along. But what she didn’t know was that all her time spent in the salon and the beauty school would eventually lead her to a HEMA allergy. One that developed and manifested through inhalation.
She has leveraged her extensive knowledge and research of nail allergies to benefit her business and offer tailored services to her loyal clients. Like myself, Delia was left to do her own research on her own nail allergies when there really wasn’t a lot of information and awareness out there.
Our conversation is one of many reminders to nail techs to be fully understanding and diligent when working with the products we have access to. Our clients rely on us for a clean and healthy environment and to use these professional products safely.
And remember, HEMA is just one type of acrylic monomer and allergen that makes up our nail products.
“While HEMA is an important ingredient in many nail products, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with its use. Exposure to incorrect use of HEMA can lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and other health problems.
To minimize the risk of exposure for both you and your client, it’s important to follow proper safety precautions when working with all nail products. This includes wearing gloves, working in a well-ventilated area, and avoiding skin contact at all times. Additionally, it is advisable to ensure that the percentage of HEMA (hydroxyethyl methacrylate) in the products is 30% or, preferably, lower.
If you or your clients experience any signs of irritation or allergic reaction from using HEMA containing products, such as redness, swelling, blisters or itching, stop using the product immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.
Regulatory guidelines related to HEMA use in nail products vary by country and region. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates nail products and sets guidelines for the safe use of ingredients like hema. In Europe and the united kingdom, they have also established guidelines for the safe use of HEMA in nail products. Products containing HEMA are restricted to professional use only.
As a nail technician, it’s important to stay up-to-date with regulatory guidelines and to use HEMA containing products safely and responsibly. By following proper safety precautions and using products according to manufacturer instructions, you can help minimize the risk of exposure and keep yourself and your clients safe.”
(Nailknowledge.org)
If a client comes to you who is aware of their allergy or has symptoms of these allergies, you must take it seriously. I’ve asked this before, and I’ll ask it again - Do you know what to do when a client has an allergic reaction to their products and comes back around and blames you and your salon? Applying products that are unsafe for these clients is a liability. Are you prepared to handle this and guide them on the next steps they need to take?
Most clients are not well versed or even aware that this can happen. As professionals, I believe we should be prepared to guide them along the way. Clients, don’t be afraid to ask the questions and let us know. Our job as nail techs is to keep client’s nails healthy at all times. So please don’t be afraid to ask or tell us about something that just doesn’t feel right.
Drop a comment here on how you are able to help your sensitive clients. Have some more questions about HEMA? Let me know!
Here are a few takeaways from our chat:
- Whether you are a licensed professional or DIY - we all start at the same place. So it’s
important that we all follow the same steps no matter what products we have access to.
- Nail products are constantly evolving and more is being offered to us these days. So it’s more important than ever to know what you are working with and seek all the information before trying out a new product for yourself. Do your research - that means understanding where the product is coming from and how to use it properly. Any time we stray from the system, we risk a breakdown and if that happens, you may not have the support you need.
- Eliminating HEMA can be an option, but it’s important to know your allergy to truly know what products are best for you. The further your acrylate allergy progresses, it affects more than just nail coatings including medical and dental procedures.
- Allergies can manifest in all different ways. Be aware of anything that doesn’t feel right when you are learning. Beauty is pain no longer applies. If you feel any pain or respiratory issues, take these as early warning signs.
- As always, seek quality content and find a nail tech who can best understand and serve your needs.
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