May 23, 2023

Allergy Awareness for Nail Technicians

As a professional nail technician, you work with various products and chemicals daily—some of which can cause allergic reactions. Understanding allergies, their symptoms, and how to prevent them is essential for keeping both you and your clients safe.

Why Do Nail Allergies Happen?

Allergies occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to certain substances known as allergens. These can come from food, animals, plants, or chemicals like those found in gel polishes and builder gels.

In the nail industry, allergies typically present as:

Red, bumpy, scaly, itchy, or swollen skin at the point of contact
Dermatitis on the hands, fingers, wrists, face, or neck
Severe reactions over time, including nail separation, cutaneous fissures, and nail dystrophy
Rare cases of respiratory issues or hives

For nail technicians, repeated exposure can worsen reactions, making it essential to identify symptoms early.

Understanding how to spot an allergy is crucial for both you and your client. Learn more here: recognising-contra-indications.

Common Allergens in the Nail Industry

The most common allergens in gel systems are:

HEMA (Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate)
HPMA (Hydroxypropyl Methacrylate)
IBOA (Isobornyl Acrylate)

These ingredients are widely used in gel polishes and builder gels to enhance adhesion, durability, and flexibility. While they are effective in creating long-lasting nail enhancements, they can also pose a risk to both nail technicians and clients if proper precautions are not taken. Not everyone will experience an allergic reaction, but repeated exposure, especially through skin contact or under-cured products can significantly increase sensitivity over time. This can eventually lead to allergic responses, making it essential to work safely, understand ingredient formulations, and choose hypoallergenic alternatives where possible.

Case Studies

If you want to see how allergies impact nail technicians, read these real-life case studies from HONA nail technician's who have experienced allergic reactions first-hand.

How to Prevent Nail Allergies

Minimising allergic reactions starts with safe practices and smart choices. Here’s what you can do:

Avoid Skin Contact – Prevent direct contact with allergens like HEMA, HPMA, and IBOA. Always wear gloves and ensure products are applied precisely to the nail.
Know Your Ingredients – Research all the ingredients in your products before using them. HONA’s range is entirely hypoallergenic, reducing unnecessary exposure to high-risk chemicals. Read more about why we only offer hypoallergenic products.
Limit Acrylates & Methacrylates – Avoid products with a high percentage of these chemicals, especially if they cannot be fully cured. Using unnecessary products leads to unnecessary risk. Check out our guide on prescriptive manicures to tailor services for each client.
Choose Trusted Brands – Stick with brands known for strict safety standards and quality control, particularly when using builder gels or gel polishes.
Use Approved Lamps – Only cure products under the correct lamp for your gel system to prevent under-curing, which can lead to overexposure and increased allergy risk. You can find HONA's approved list here
Protect Yourself from Nail Dust – Use an extractor fan and wear a face mask to prevent fine dust from being inhaled.

What to do if your client develops a reaction

If a client experiences signs of an allergic reaction, it’s important to act professionally while staying within your scope as a nail technician. In this situation, we always recommend the following steps:

Remove the Product – Gently and safely remove any gel product from the nails to eliminate further exposure to potential allergens.
Soothe the Nails – Apply Bare Cuticle Oil to nourish and protect the nail plate while minimising discomfort. This will help keep the nails hydrated after removal.
Refer to a Medical Professional – Encourage your client to visit a GP for a second opinion and an allergy test. As nail technicians, we are not medical professionals, so we cannot diagnose allergies, but we can guide clients toward the right steps for their health.
Remain Calm and Reassuring – If a client is experiencing a reaction, they may feel anxious or worried. Stay professional, provide clear information, and reassure them that seeking medical advice is the best course of action.

By taking these steps, you ensure your client’s well-being while maintaining a responsible and professional approach to handling potential allergies.

Final Thoughts: Knowledge is Power

As a responsible nail technician, knowing which ingredients could trigger an allergy is essential for maintaining a safe salon environment. Monitoring both your own and your clients' nail health over time is key! if an allergic reaction occurs, take immediate action and seek medical advice if necessary.

By making smart product choices, following best practices, and staying informed, you can protect yourself and your clients while delivering safe, high-quality nail services.

Knowledge is power. Stay educated, stay protected, and let’s keep the industry safer for everyone.