Why NIOSH Matters to Nail Techs

NIOSH has been one of the few federal agencies studying the real impact of chemical exposure in nail salons. Past reports from NIOSH highlighted:

• High levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like acetone and toluene in salon air.

• Ventilation issues in small salon spaces.

• Links between chemical exposure and symptoms like headaches, respiratory irritation, and reproductive health concerns.

 

These studies validated what many nail techs already knew from experience, that our work environment carries unique risks. Without NIOSH, fewer large-scale federal studies will focus on salon safety.

 

The Reality Now

With NIOSH gutted, future federal research on nail salon exposures, worker health, and safety standards will be drastically limited. That means:

• Less government attention on ingredient safety.

• Fewer data-driven studies to push product reformulation.

• Even less oversight on the long-term effects of salon chemicals.

In other words, the responsibility for protecting ourselves and our clients now falls even more heavily on us.

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Why Education Matters More Than Ever

This is exactly why the Healthy Nails Collaborative created the Nail Tech Science & Safety Accreditation.

If the government is stepping back, our industry needs to step forward. Education that goes beyond licensing, covering nail anatomy, infection control, chemistry, curing science, and allergy prevention is no longer optional. It’s survival.

 

Through structured Mastery modules, techs can arm themselves with the knowledge federal agencies may no longer prioritize and by earning the HNC Accreditation, nail professionals signal to their clients and communities that they are committed to safety backed by science, not marketing.

 

Raising the Standard Ourselves

The federal cuts are a reminder: if we wait for someone else to regulate or research our industry, we’ll be waiting forever. Nail techs deserve better and the only way forward is through credible, science-based education that we can put into practice every day.

The Healthy Nails Collaborative is proud to take on that mission. Because while the government may have cut its research, we’re not cutting corners.