Allergic contact dermatitis caused by (meth)acrylates in long-lasting nail polish - are we facing a new epidemic in the beauty industry?

Contact Dermatitis. 2017 Dec;77(6):360-366. doi: 10.1111/cod.12827. Epub 2017 Jun 27.

Abstract

Background: Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) caused by (meth)acrylates has been described both in occupational and in non-occupational settings.

Objectives: To evaluate the clinical patterns, the most frequent allergens and the prognosis in patients sensitized to (meth)acrylates in long-lasting nail polish.

Methods: The files of patients with ACD caused by (meth)acrylates in long-lasting nail polish diagnosed between January 2013 and June 2016 in four dermatology departments in Spain were reviewed. Patients were followed up by telephone interview.

Results: Overall, 2353 patients were patch tested. Forty-three (1.82%) were diagnosed with ACD caused by (meth)acrylates in long-lasting nail polish during that period; all were female, and all had hand dermatitis. Patients were mostly less than 40 years old (72.1%), non-atopic (95.4%) and had an occupational cause of their dermatitis (93%), which developed ∼10.1 months after they had started to use this technique. The most frequent positive allergens were: 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, and tetrahydrofurfuryl methacrylate. Eight of the 22 interviewed patients were able to improve their working technique and used 4H® protective material (fingerstalls/gloves).

Conclusions: Long-lasting nail polishes have become widespread, and it is a matter of concern that we may be facing a new epidemic of ACD caused by these. Policies regulating their use are urgently needed.

Keywords: acrylates; acrylic nails; allergic contact dermatitis; methacrylates; nail polish; occupational.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Allergens / adverse effects*
  • Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / etiology*
  • Dermatitis, Occupational / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methacrylates / adverse effects*
  • Patch Tests
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Spain
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Allergens
  • Methacrylates
  • hydroxyethyl methacrylate
  • ethylene dimethacrylate
  • 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate