The Healthy Nails Collaborative (HNC)
"The knowledge YOU NEED to know about nails"
FDA FINDINGS: Cosmetic Products Containing Methylene Chloride
FDA has found several cosmetic products marketed as gel nail polish remover that contain methylene chloride as an ingredient. Methylene chlorideExternal Link Disclaimer is a prohibited ingredient, which is not allowed in cosmetics at any level (21 CFR 700.19) Methylene chloride is a volatile, colorless liquid with a sweet odor used in various industrial processes, including paint stripping, paint remover manufacturing, and metal cleaning and degreasing. Use of methylene chloride in cosmetics is a concern because it has been shown to cause cancer in animals and is likely harmful to human health. Cosmetics that contain methylene chloride as an ingredient often fail to identify it as an ingredient on the cosmetic product label. In addition, the ingredient is sometimes listed under other names such as dichloromethane or methyl bichloride. The table below lists cosmetic products tested by FDA that were found to contain methylene chloride. Consumers should beware of purchasing and using any such products. If you have questions, call your health care professional or the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222; it is open 24 hours a day.
Product Name and Image. Year Tested. Country of Origin. Lab Results Methylene Chloride Content (%)1
AL'IVER® Nail Polish Quick Gel Remover 2024. China. 77.1%
AL’IVER® Professional MAGIC REMOVER. 2024. China. 83.6%
AIBRIT Gel Nail Polish Remover 2024 China 92.7%
BesTby Gel Nail Polish Remover 2024 China 87.1%
Welcome Crisania
3D-Culptress
HNC 3-D Art Safety Page Getting Underway
Where Creativity Meets Safety in 3D Nail Art. Crisania Neri Joins the Healthy Nails Collaborative as 3D Safety Lead. Crisania Neri is a Canadian nail artist and founder of NERI, a luxury nail brand known for pushing the boundaries of 3D nail art. Her work blends Japanese and Korean influences with the scale and drama of LA-style nails, creating a signature look that’s both sculptural and wearable. Through her unique mix of art direction, photography, motion design, and nail technique, Crisania has built a global following of artists, students, and clients who look to her for both creativity and precision. Every product in the NERI line is developed through months of testing and close collaboration with chemists to ensure performance, durability, and above all, safety. From color gels to sculpting products, each formula is custom-developed to meet the standards Crisania holds as a working artist. Now, she brings that same standard to a broader audience as she officially joins the Healthy Nails Collaborative, taking on the role of lead educator and content director for the 3D Gel Nail Art Safety page. 3D gel work is one of the most technically demanding and chemically risky forms of nail art, yet safety in this space is rarely discussed. Crisania is changing that. On the new 3D safety page, she’ll be sharing professional guidance on safe sculpting techniques, avoiding skin contact, understanding lamp compatibility, reading through misleading product claims, and building better habits around curing and ventilation. The goal isn’t to limit creativity, it’s to protect it. Crisania discovered the Healthy Nails Collaborative while researching nail product safety and allergies. Amid a sea of misinformation, she found in Amber’s platform a credible, science-based resource that aligned with her values. That alignment grew into collaboration and now, leadership. With her appointment, the Collaborative adds not just an expert in 3D design, but a creative leader who understands both the artistry and the responsibility that come with this level of work. Her presence signals a serious shift: the era of choosing between safety and creativity is over. Nail artists deserve both.
Report Your Adverse Reaction To Nail Products To The FDA
If you are a consumer or health professional who wants to report a complaint or adverse event (such as an illness, allergic reaction, rash, irritation, scarring, or hair loss) related to a cosmetic product, you can:
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Complete and submit an electronic MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form. FDA strongly encourages electronic submissions to facilitate efficiency and timeliness of data submission and management for the agency.
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Complete a paper MedWatch Consumer Voluntary Reporting Form and mail or fax the form to FDA:
MedWatch
Food and Drug Administration
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20852
FAX: 800-332-0178 (toll-free).
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Call the FDA's Food and Cosmetics Information
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(1-800-222-1222).
Nail Products Labeled as Healthy, Non-Toxic, Safe Etc. Is Deceptive
The following information is a brief introduction to labeling requirements. For a more thorough explanation of cosmetic labeling regulations, refer to FDA's Cosmetic Labeling Guide and the cosmetic labeling regulations themselves (21 CFR parts 701 and 740). Firms also may wish to discuss their labeling needs with a consultant.
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Proper labeling is an important aspect of putting a cosmetic product on the market. FDA regulates cosmetic labeling under the authority of both the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA). These laws and their related regulations are intended to protect consumers from health hazards and deceptive practices and to help consumers make informed decisions regarding product purchase.
It is illegal to introduce a misbranded cosmetic into interstate commerce, and such products are subject to regulatory action. Some of the ways a cosmetic can become misbranded are:
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its labeling is false or misleading,
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its label fails to provide required information,
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its required label information is not properly displayed, and
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its labeling violates requirements of the Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1970 [FD&C Act, sec. 602; 21 U.S.C. 362].
HNC CODE
Avoid Skin Contact
Ensure that nail products do not come into contact with skin.
Report All Reactions
Report any adverse reactions to nail products to the FDA.
Complete Knowledge Pathways
Ensure that nail products do not come into contact with skin.
Use Full Cure Lamps
Use a full cure lamp when applying gel products for proper curing.
Educate Others About Safety
Share knowledge about nail product safety with friends and family.
Be Skeptical of Marketing
Be wary of misleading marketing claims like "non-toxic," "safe," "healthier," or "hypoallergenic." If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Apply Code to All
Nail Products
Implement these safety practices for all nail products, not just gels.
Share Awareness About The HNC
Promote the Healthy Nails Collaborative and its mission.
Avoid Nail Hacks
Exercise caution and avoid nail hacks seen on social media, sticking to proven practices.
Member Corner
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We are thrilled to spotlight Rachel Diehl, known to her clients as "Rachel's Nail Room" in Auburn, Michigan. As a newcomer in the nail industry, Rachel embodies the zest for lifelong learning that we at The Healthy Nail Collaborative hold in high regard. With a solid educational background and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Rachel recognizes the importance of staying well-informed in a dynamic beauty industry.
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Rachel's journey with us began on a note of serendipity. While exploring TikTok for inspiration and learning from her peers, she discovered Amber The Nail Whisperer and was immediately drawn to the profound expertise shared on our platform, The Healthy Nail Collaborative. Her enthusiasm for enhancing her professional skills and contributing to the community quickly made her a valued member of our collaborative.
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Driven by her educational pursuits, Rachel embarked on her first initiative to enrich the resources available on our website. She has meticulously designed an informative poster titled "Nail Myths," which addresses common misconceptions in nail care. This poster is not just a decorative addition to her nail room but a conversation starter, aimed at educating her clients and elevating their understanding of nail health.
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Looking ahead, Rachel is committed to developing a range of educational materials, including worksheets, posters, and tests. Her goal is clear: to empower nail technicians and clients alike with essential knowledge that fosters a safer and healthier nail community. It’s initiatives like Rachel's that inspire a deeper, more meaningful engagement with the practices that shape our industry.
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At The Healthy Nail Collaborative, we are excited to support Rachel’s efforts and are eager to see how her projects will enhance our collective mission to nurture an informed, vigilant, and thriving nail care community.
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Healthy Nails Collaborative Breaks Barriers to
Safety Information with Free Access
We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking development at the Healthy Nails Collaborative - a new financial undertaking has enabled us to offer our knowledge pathways and resources completely free of charge. This exciting shift is made possible by the support and commitment of Arch Rival Nails, paving the way for a new era of accessibility and inclusion in the nail care community.
Gone are the days of barriers to essential safety information - thanks to this generous initiative, we are now able to provide a wealth of resources to professionals and enthusiasts alike, without any cost. This newfound freedom of access extends beyond our wildest dreams, empowering individuals within and outside the nail industry to embrace best practices for product safety.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our arch rivals for their unwavering commitment to product safety and their belief in our shared mission. Their partnership has not only elevated the standards of our industry but has also demonstrated the power of collaboration in driving positive change.
With this monumental leap towards inclusivity, the Healthy Nails Collaborative is poised to become a global hub for safety information, reaching individuals from all corners of the world. Our doors are now open wide, welcoming everyone to join us in creating a safer and healthier future for the nail care community.
Join us in celebrating this pivotal moment in our journey, as we embrace the spirit of unity and progress. Together, we can build a brighter and safer tomorrow for the nail industry, one free resource at a time.
Top 10 Most Hazardous Nail Products
The order of Nail Products hazardousness is determined by considering the potential risks and harmful effects of each product on the skin and similar ingredients.
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In terms of hazard, it is important to consider the concentration and formulation of the products, as well as the duration and frequency of exposure.
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1. Acrylic Monomer is placed first because it contains chemicals HEMA/EMA that can irritate the skin, eyes, and damage your respiratory system. Methacrylates, cause skin sensitization and allergic reactions when overexposured. They are more potent and have a higher risk of adverse effects compared to other ingredients on this list.
2. Protein Bond is second because it can also cause skin sensitivity and allergic reactions if overexposed. It contains chemicals HEMA, (1-METHYLETHYLIDENE)BIS[4,1-PHENYLENEOXY(2-HYDROX Y-3,1-PROPANEDIYL)] BISMETHACRYLATE and ethyl acetate that trigger allergic responses when overexposed. Protein Bond is ranked after acrylic monomer due to its lower potency.
3. Gel Polish/gels: Gels are third because it contains chemicals that are harmful if overexposed. The uncured gel can cause skin irritation, sensitivity and allergies. While gels are generally safe to use if used correctly, they are ranked slightly lower due to the risks associated with prolonged exposure and incorrect application techniques.
4. Acid Primer: Acid primers are placed fourth because they contain corrosive acids, such as methacrylic acid or phosphoric acid. These acids can cause skin irritation, burns, and sensitivity if overexposed. Acid primers are considered by many to be more hazardous than the previous products due to their corrosive nature. However, acid primer should be used in tiny amounts minimizing the risk of extended exposure. While Acrylic monomer is used in larger quantities and requires more extensive exposure during the nail application process.
Acid primer is considered less hazardous compared to protein bond because it typically contains milder chemicals. Acid primers usually
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