The Healthy Nails Collaborative (HNC)
"The knowledge YOU NEED to know about nails"
This July, Doug Schoon is releasing a brand-new book created specifically for nail tech educators. If you’re a nail tech, nail tech student or educator or thinking about it, this book is designed to support you with current, research-backed information from one of the industry’s most respected scientists.
While the Healthy Nails Collaborative Knowledge Pathways are currently being revamped to ensure clarity and consistency with his new book, we highly recommend seeking out Doug’s new book in the meantime. The core information remains the same, but we’re updating the format and structure to better serve learners at every level.
We’re proud to share that Amber The Nail Whisperer, founder of the Healthy Nails Collaborative, was one of just ten professionals selected to review the book before publication. Her insights, as always, reflect the no-nonsense, truth-first approach this community is built on.
Stay tuned for the updated Knowledge Pathways soon. In the meantime, grab Doug’s book when it is released. It’s the resource every serious educator should have on their desk.
New Resource for Nail Educators Coming July 2025
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%
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.
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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