In accordance with European regulations, Green Flash™ contains no HEMA monomers or Di-HEMA-TMHDC, two sensitizing molecules that can cause skin allergies and are now banned in formulations sold to the general public!
Allergies to semi-permanent? HEMA and Di-HEMA-TMHDC identified as culprits.
Some semi-permanent gels can cause allergies, and you may have already experienced this!
The culprits? Two small molecules called HEMA and Di-HEMA-TMHDC monomers. These substances, belonging to the chemical family of acrylates and methacrylates, are present in the formulation of many traditional gels. Under the effect of light (UV or LED lamps), they can link together to form a large network of polymers and allow the tenue of nail polishes.
Since September 2021, these two molecules have been in the spotlight, and this type of sensitizing gel is now subject to a European regulation* that prohibits their sale to the general public.
Unfortunately, these products are still used in professional settings such as salons, and especially, other (methyl)acrylate monomers with sensitizing potential may be included in products, exposing consumers—as well as professionals—to allergy risks.
Reactive molecules that penetrate the skin…
Indeed, these so-called “sensitizing” substances are chemically very reactive and often cause inflammatory reactions, especially when they come into contact with the skin.
In fact, if the gel layer is poorly applied and spills over the nail, these tiny molecules can penetrate the skin’s surface layer or cuticles to reach the epidermis.
Their high chemical reactivity allows them to bind to epidermal proteins, modifying them. The “modified” epidermal proteins are then recognized as foreign by the immune system, which triggers a defensive inflammatory reaction of an allergic type.
Allergic once, allergic forever?
The problem is that it’s not immediately noticeable… This sensitization phenomenon often occurs some time after the first exposure, as the immune response takes time to develop and activate with each exposure. But unlike irritation, sensitization remains permanent because the body remembers this immune response, which can recur, even long-term, upon exposure to the same molecule or a similar one.
Numerous studies and scientific reports** have shown the “sensitizing” effects of these molecules on the skin (dermatitis, itching, erythema, peeling on the hands) but also respiratory effects, such as asthma, because these small molecules are also very volatile and can be inhaled, especially with daily exposure.
Restrictions and regulations
To avoid risks, applying this type of gel requires extreme care. That’s why the new European regulation* has banned the sale of products containing these two molecules to individuals and allows their use under conditions for care professionals, recommending a series of protective measures (extraction table, filtering mask, and nitrile gloves).
Green Flash™: the non-sensitizing alternative without compromise on tenue
At Manucurist, health is at the heart of our priorities. The beauty of your nails is also uncompromising. Since its launch in 2019, the Green Flash™ innovation has already anticipated regulations by offering a new generation of long-lasting 12 free polish, non-sensitizing and free of (methyl)acrylate monomers.
To enjoy this routine in a ready-to-use format, choose a Green Flash™ starter kit.
With Green Flash™, nails damaged by semi-permanent are a thing of the past… and so are allergies!
And you are the best to talk about it!
"As someone allergic to acrylates, I had no reactions! I can finally wear a semi-permanent polish"
— Nathalie B.
"Super happy! Perfect products! I used to have allergies to traditional semi-permanents, but with these, no problems!"
— Laurie E.
"I tried so many brands of semi-permanent polish and all triggered allergies. Today, I’m so happy to have finally found a natural semi-permanent polish that lasts! No more allergies and the nail is not damaged. Removal is so easy! I love it and can’t wait to have all the colors!"
— Élise B.
Discover in detail the Green Flash™ innovation and what makes it stand out from the others
