Glitterbels Respond to Reports of Allergic Reactions From High HEMA Gel Polishes

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Mar 14, 2024

Glitterbels Respond to Reports of Allergic Reactions From High HEMA Gel Polishes

NEWCASTLE, UK - (NewMediaWire) - April 24, 2023 - Recent news has given a lot of media attention and focus to the risk of allergies when using gel polish and builder gel products. Within this,

NEWCASTLE, UK - (NewMediaWire) - April 24, 2023 - Recent news has given a lot of media attention and focus to the risk of allergies when using gel polish and builder gel products. Within this, concerns were raised about if there is an increase in nail allergens when using nail enhancements and specifically gel polish. A news report by BBC News, suggested that at least 2.4% of people could be affected by allergies from Methacrylate chemicals, which are often found in gel nail polish. The allergy to the chemical can cause a severe, itchy rash anywhere on the body, not just the fingertips, says the British Association of Dermatologists.

It is also important to note that the report stated that this often occurs when gels and polishes are applied at home or by untrained technicians.

As an ethical brand, gel polish retailer and educators, Glitterbels fully supports the elevated attention and the reasons why the media have highlighted the issue. Glitterbels constantly strives to deliver what is best for consumers, customers, and our professional nail technicians. Because of this, the brand has offered some key advice and information to educate consumers on allergies and how they can be avoided.

What is causing the allergies?

So, what is causing these skin allergies? The brand has stated some facts about gel polish and their products specifically, to help their customers and gel polish users understand the differences in products and which chemicals are used in a manicure service.

Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate (HEMA) is part of the monomer family and is used as an adhesive in nail products. It has been used for decades, safely and effectively. However, the problem occurs with the huge rise in unregulated brands coming to the market. Often, they are using concentrations of more than 30% Hema, and because of this, the UK has witnessed an uptick in the number of people reporting allergic reactions after a manicure, which has then caused the inevitable attention from UK media outlets.

HEMA-free polish to the rescue? If people do find they are having allergic reactions to the products used in their nail service, there is an option to opt for HEMA-free or low HEMA gel products, instead.

For example, Glitterbels made the decision in November 2021 to launch a range of HEMA-free gel polishes. Glitterbels launched these HEMA-free options alongside products which do contain low levels of HEMA after witnessing the huge rise in reported allergies. Glitterbels products are extensively tested in-house and independently, to assure the best quality to users. All of their products are made in the US and UK, ensuring the highest quality ingredients are used. Glitterbels are set to imminently launch the most extensive range of HEMA Free Builder Gels in the UK too, with builder gel becoming more popular amongst consumers. This will offer more options to nail technicians and customers and hopefully reduce the chance of reactions.

To further reduce the chance of unwanted allergic reactions, in the past 12 months, the brand have delivered over 1,000 free gel polish conversion courses to gel polish nail technicians. This gives technicians a chance to elevate their service offering and move away from high HEMA products. The aim is to give their customers a great manicure and, more importantly, use completely safe techniques.

Annabel Maginnis, Founder of Glitterbels has said: "We are proud sponsors of The Federation of Nail Professionals and include the Marian Newman nail knowledge diploma in all our beginner courses to ensure our student's knowledge is second to none. Our products are extensively tested in-house and independently so we can assure the best quality to our users. Light is often the best medicine, and we welcome the increased media attention on unsafe, unregulated, high HEMA products."

For further information contact:

Georgia Walker

[email protected]

https://glitterbels.com/