Welcome to all things HEMA! If you’ve been living under a rock and still don’t know what HEMA-free gel polish is, we’ve got your back!
Whether you suffer from allergic reactions when getting a gel manicure or have sensitive skin, discover what HEMA-free gel polish is and its benefits for happier, healthier nails. We have also assembled a list of all your favourite gel polishes, outlining which ones are HEMA-free so you can have peace of mind when you shop for new gel polishes.
HEMA-free gel polish is formulated without hydroxyethyl methacrylate, a common ingredient in many traditional gel polishes. HEMA is a binding agent to help the gel polish adhere to your nail and provide durability without diminishing flexibility.
However, some people experience a mild allergic reaction and skin sensitivities caused when HEMA comes into contact with their skin, hence developing HEMA-free alternatives.
One of the main benefits of HEMA-free gel polish is that it reduces the risk of allergic reactions and skin irritations. It is designed to be gentler on the skin and nails, making it safer for individuals with sensitive skin and allergies to HEMA. Similarly, nail technicians and home users who frequently use gel polish can benefit from reduced exposure to HEMA.
Luckily, HEMA-free gel polish still provides similar durability, shine and ease of application as traditional gel polishes without potential adverse effects. Many brands offer diverse colours and finishes in their HEMA-free gel polish lines, ensuring users can still enjoy various styles and looks.
Yes! HEMA-free gel polish is safer than traditional gel polishes, especially if you’ve experienced an allergic reaction while getting gel nails in the past.
Many HEMA-free gel polishes comply with stringent cosmetic regulations and standards, ensuring they are safe for use when applied as directed. With it, you’re less likely to develop allergic contact dermatitis, a type of eczema triggered by contact with a particular substance.
However, it’s important to note that while HEMA-free gel polishes are safer for those sensitive to HEMA, they are not entirely chemical-free. Some individuals might still experience reactions to other ingredients present in the formula.
If you’re unsure whether or not you will have a reaction to a gel polish or you’re using a new gel polish brand, the best way is to spot-test it first on your nails.
Also, follow the gel polish curing instructions carefully to avoid overexposure to uncured products.
You can also be extra safe by choosing reputable brands prioritising safety and quality in their formulas.
Always check the ingredient list to avoid known allergens you might be sensitive to.
If you’re particularly worried, seek assistance from a professional nail technician who understands safe application practices and can recommend suitable products.
HEMA-free gel polish is significantly better for people allergic to HEMA as it minimises the risk of allergic reactions. Its gentler formula can also be better for those with sensitive skin or nails.
If you’re a nail technician who frequently uses gel polish on your clients, using HEMA-free gel polishes is better for reducing exposure to potentially irritating chemicals.
However, while HEMA-free options are growing, they might still be less widely available than traditional gel polishes, limiting colour and finish choices.
HEMA-free gel polishes can also sometimes be more expensive due to the specialised formulation. However, going HEMA-free is worth the investment if it’s a toss-up between price and not getting an allergic reaction from your manicure.
Although HEMA-free gel polish is generally less likely to give you an allergic reaction than using traditional gel polishes, there may still be other chemicals that may cause sensitivities or allergic reactions.
Even though HEMA is excluded, other acrylates or methacrylates can still be present in HEMA-free gel polish, which can cause allergic reactions. Ingredients like preservatives, colourants and stabilisers can also be potential allergens, along with some fragrances.
If you are allergic to any gel polish or HEMA, look out for these signs:
You don’t need to worry if you’re wondering about HEMA in your nail polish! Nail polish does not contain HEMA; it’s only found in gels and acrylics.
Like gel polish, you can get some BIAB (Builder in a Bottle) formulated to be HEMA-free. In contrast, others may still contain HEMA or other similar acrylates.
Always check the product label or the packaging for the ingredients list to see if it’s HEMA-free. Gel polish brands will usually advertise prominently if a BIAB is HEMA-free, as they are trying to target users with sensitive skin or allergies.
If you’re unsure if a product is HEMA-free, contact us; our helpful customer service team will be happy to help put your mind at ease!
If you’re looking for a HEMA-free gel polish, here is a list of the main big brands that offer it. All these brands have many colours and finishes to help you find your favourite shades.
Aprés
Candy Coat
Glitterbels
Halo
Manucurist
OPI
**OPI GelColour has recently relaunched its entire gel polish collection and introduced its Intelli-Gel technology formula to all its gel polishes. HEMA-free and vegan, OPI aims to create gel polishes that are kind to the skin and inclusive to vegans.**
If you’re looking for a wide variety of your favourite brands and colours that offer HEMA-free formulas, Nail Polish Direct has you covered.
Whether you suffer from allergic reactions due to HEMA or have sensitive skin, browse our HEMA-free gel polish range today at Nail Polish Direct for happier, healthier nails.
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