Nail care products

PMAA-CeO2 nanoparticle-based paper microfluidic device with customized image processing software for antioxidant assay

Despite recent advancements in the field of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs), a key challenge remains in developing a simple and efficient μPAD with customized imaging capabilities for antioxidant assays. In the present study, we report a facile approach for μPAD fabrication through the application of transparent nail paint leading to creation of hydrophobic barriers and well-defined channels. The resultant μPADs were then characterized through scanning electron microscopy and contact angle measurements. The resolution and functional features of the fabricated μPAD were amenable to the intended assay. The μPAD's impregnated poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA)-coated cerium oxide (CeO₂) nanoparticles oxidized the 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) leading to the formation of a blue-colored charge-transfer complex. The addition of different antioxidant standard solutions resulted in a reduction in the blue color in a dose-dependent manner which could be observed visually. The color intensity of the PMAA-CeO₂ nanoparticle@TMB oxidation product was inversely proportional to the antioxidant concentration and was measured using customized in-house MATLAB-based image processing software. Importantly, PMAA-CeO₂ nanoparticle-based μPADs demonstrated good analytical characteristics and were able to be stored for long periods without any loss of activity. Moreover, potential interferents did not pose any threat to the colorimetric signal read-out for determination of antioxidant activity. The developed method was further applied for the assessment of antioxidant activity in a variety of tea samples and performed satisfactorily in comparison with a commonly used antioxidant detection method. Collectively, the developed μPAD-based platform holds great potential as a low-cost, convenient, portable and reliable method for pursuing various on-site antioxidant assays. Graphical Abstract.

Thermal and Mechanical Characterization of EMA-TEGDMA Mixtures for Cosmetic Applications

Mixtures of methacrylic polymers are the most common materials for making composites to be used as resins for dental and cosmetic applications. Some of these mixtures are composed by poly(ethyl methacrylate) (PEMA) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), which constitute a solid component to be mixed with a liquid component made out of methacrylate monomers. The reaction between the thermal initiator benzoyl peroxyde (BPO) present in the solid component and the activator of the polymerization process, N,N-dimethyl-p-toluidine (DMT) present in the liquid component, gives rise to thermoset materials. In the present study, different liquid formulations composed by a mixture of two methacrylic monomers, ethyl methacrylate (EMA) and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) for cosmetic applications, were prepared and characterized, using a commercial powder (POW) composed by PEMA and PMMA. With the aim of improving workability during final application of the material, it was necessary to slow down the polymerization rate of liquid formulations. Their thermal behavior was investigated by differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) in order to check the polymerization rate. Thermal stability of final materials was determined by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), microindentation hardness and impact tests were performed on final materials, to assess their performance with respect to standard formulation. The combination of thermal and mechanical properties allows choosing which formulations could be suitable for use in cosmetics.

Safety and Efficacy of Nail Products

Over the past several decades, the commercialization of nail cosmetics has increased. From nail polishes to artificial nails, different methods of nail beautification have become popularized. However, the impact of these products remains largely unknown. Governments have passed legislation in attempts to regulate nail cosmetics, but these regulations may not be adequate and are difficult to enforce. Knowledge of the safety and efficacy of nail products remains limited due to the relative dearth of literature published on the topic. This review serves to summarize and interpret the data available regarding common nail products and their safety and efficacy. Nail products such as nail polish, nail polish removers, and artificial nails have shown to have some adverse effects through case reports and studies. Harmful substances such as toluenesulfonamide-formaldehyde resin and methacrylates have been identified in commercial nail products, leading to several adverse effects, but in particular, allergic contact dermatitis. Exposure to substances such as acetonitrile found in removers may have more toxic and caustic effects, especially if ingested. In addition, for nail technicians there are negative effects linked with occupational exposure. Compounds used in nail products may become aerosolized and lead to asthma, eye and throat irritation, and even neurocognitive changes.

Paediatric burns secondary to nail adhesives: a case series

Background

Nail adhesives are widely available beauty products that are used in the cosmetic industry and households to attach false nails. Nail adhesive burns are uncommon, and it is crucial that healthcare providers and the public are aware of its potential to cause chemical burn.

Case Presentation

Case series of accidental burns secondary to cyanoacrylate nail glue treated at the Welsh Centre for Burns and Plastic Surgery (WCBPS) in Swansea, United Kingdom.

Conclusion

All of the burns were observed in children and occurred due to accidental spillage. Therefore, it is important for the public to be aware that nail glue is a chemical agent which should be stored safely away from the reaches of young children. The case series highlights the importance of first aid in reducing the severity of chemical burns secondary to the nail adhesives, and its early recognition and treatment are emphasised.

The solution to pollution may not be dilution: A paediatric burn from accidental fingernail glue spillage

The use of fingernail glue in cosmetics is widespread, but the serious effects of spillage directly onto skin causing a burn have not been previously reported. We describe a 2-year-old male suffering full-thickness burns to the dorsum of his left foot 9 days after direct contact with cyanoacrylate-containing nail glue. Conservative management failed and formal surgical excision with skin grafting was needed. First aid advice from product safety and medical literature is ambiguous, as despite timely intervention with recommended measures, a serious burn injury resulted. Review of the literature revealed two other cases of indirect nail glue burns, both requiring surgery, with clothing acting as an interface between glue and skin, distinguishing it from our case. We propose possible mechanisms of injury and present this case to increase awareness of the consequences of contact with a seemingly trivial cosmetic chemical, recommend its better labelling and hope to educate medical professionals about this unusual, but serious mechanism of burn injury. This would obviate additional psychological stress on child and parents due to unnecessary referral to social services for investigation of a possible non-accidental injury.

Nail Diseases Related to Nail Cosmetics

The use of nail care products and procedures to beautify and groom the nails is extremely common. Unfortunately, when improperly used, nail cosmetics can lead to nail diseases, such as paronychia, onycholysis, and brittle nails. Understanding the pathophysiology behind these conditions is an essential step toward better treatment and future prevention allowing patients to enjoy nail adornments while maintaining healthy nails.