Nail cosmetics: allergies and irritations

Decoding Cosmetic Complexities: A Comprehensive Guide to Matrix Composition and Pretreatment Technology

Despite advancements in analytical technologies, the complex nature of cosmetic matrices, coupled with the presence of diverse and trace unauthorized additives, hinders the application of these technologies in cosmetics analysis. This not only impedes effective regulation of cosmetics but also leads to the continual infiltration of illegal products into the market, posing serious health risks to consumers. The establishment of cosmetic regulations is often based on extensive scientific experiments, resulting in a certain degree of latency. Therefore, timely advancement in laboratory research is crucial to ensure the timely update and adaptability of regulations. A comprehensive understanding of the composition of cosmetic matrices and their pretreatment technologies is vital for enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of cosmetic detection. Drawing upon the China National Medical Products Administration's 2021 Cosmetic Classification Rules and Classification Catalogue, we streamline the wide array of cosmetics into four principal categories based on the following compositions: emulsified, liquid, powdered, and wax-based cosmetics. In this review, the characteristics, compositional elements, and physicochemical properties inherent to each category, as well as an extensive overview of the evolution of pretreatment methods for different categories, will be explored. Our objective is to provide a clear and comprehensive guide, equipping researchers with profound insights into the core compositions and pretreatment methods of cosmetics, which will in turn advance cosmetic analysis and improve detection and regulatory approaches in the industry.

TFOS Lifestyle: Impact of cosmetics on the ocular surface

In this report the use of eye cosmetic products and procedures and how this represents a lifestyle challenge that may exacerbate or promote the development of ocular surface and adnexal disease is discussed. Multiple aspects of eye cosmetics are addressed, including their history and market value, psychological and social impacts, possible problems associated with cosmetic ingredients, products, and procedures, and regulations for eye cosmetic use. In addition, a systematic review that critically appraises randomized controlled trial evidence concerning the ocular effects of eyelash growth products is included. The findings of this systematic review highlight the evidence gaps and indicate future directions for research to focus on ocular surface outcomes associated with eyelash growth products.

Anthropomorphism and Its Adverse Effects on the Distress and Welfare of Companion Animals

Anthropomorphic practices are increasing worldwide. Anthropomorphism is defined as the tendency to attribute human forms, behaviors, and emotions to non-human animals or objects. Anthropomorphism is particularly relevant for companion animals. Some anthropomorphic practices can be beneficial to them, whilst others can be very detrimental. Some anthropomorphic behaviors compromise the welfare and physiology of animals by interfering with thermoregulation, while others can produce dehydration due to the loss of body water, a condition that brings undesirable consequences such as high compensatory blood pressure and heat shock, even death, depending on the intensity and frequency of an animal's exposure to these stressors. Malnutrition is a factor observed due to consumption of junk food or an imbalance in caloric proportions. This can cause obesity in pets that may have repercussions on their locomotor apparatus. Intense human-animal interaction can also lead to the establishment of attachment that impacts the mental state and behavior of animals, making them prone to develop aggression, fear, or anxiety separation syndrome. Another aspect is applying cosmetics to pets, though scientific studies have not yet determined whether cosmetic products such as coat dyes, nail polish, and lotions are beneficial or harmful for the animals, or to what extent. The cohabitation of animals in people's homes can also constitute a public health risk due to infectious and zoonotic diseases. In this context, this paper aims to analyze the adverse effects of anthropomorphism on the welfare of companion animals from several angles-physiological, sanitary, and behavioral-based on a discussion of current scientific findings.

Evaluation and detection of early nail damage caused by nail enamel

BACKGROUND

Many nail cosmetics have components that are considered irritants or allergens. Due to the current clinical assessment limitations, it is often too late to identify nail enamel hazards until they cause disease. Thus, it is essential to investigate effective methods of detecting minor changes and early lesions in nails before they worsen.

OBJECTIVES

To provide a reliable method to investigate and evaluate nail enamel hazards on nails earlier using ultrasonic equipment.

METHODS

Eighty-three volunteers with smooth, lustrous nails were enrolled after being clinically examined. The thumbnails and middle nails were evaluated before and after using nail enamel for 2 weeks. Nail health was then assessed using three methods: clinical evaluation, nail surface image analysis, and an ultrasonic device.

RESULTS

Using clinical diagnostic and imaging methods for analyzing the nail surface showed no visible differences before and after using nail enamel for 2 weeks. However, there was a significant difference in the nails' depth and density (p < 0.001). The depth had increased 10% for thumbnails (about 20 μm), and the density had decreased by 3.0%. As for middle nails, the depth had increased by 9.4% (about 19 μm), and the density had decreased by 3.0%.

CONCLUSION

The present study provided evidence that nail enamel can significantly irritate hyperplasia and decrease the density of the nails, but detecting that slow process of pathological changes cannot currently be assessed by conventional clinical evaluation and image analysis. Thus, our study provided a practical novel approach for evaluating these visually imperceptible nail changes.

Treatment of brittle nail with a hydroxypropyl chitosan-based lacquer, alone or in combination with oral biotin: A randomized, assessor-blinded trial

We evaluated in a randomized, assessor-blinded, study the efficacy of a hydroxypropyl chitosan-based nail lacquer (HPC-NL) alone or in combination with oral biotin (HPC-NL + B) in the treatment of brittle nail syndrome (BNS). Fifty subjects (21 men; mean age 64 years) with BNS were enrolled. Twenty-six were randomly assigned to HPC-NL and 24 to the HPC-NL and biotin, 10 mg/daily (+B). Topical and oral treatments lasted for 4 consecutive months. The primary outcome was the evolution of the Onychodystrophy Global Severity Score (OGSS) assessing nail dystrophy, lamellar and longitudinal splitting, dyschromia, and pitting. At baseline, the OGSS, mean (SD), was 8.4 (2.1) in the HPC-NL group and 11.8 (2.3) in the HPC-NL + B group. The OGSS was significantly reduced during treatments in both groups. At Month 4, OGSS was reduced by 57% (HPC-NL) and 62% (HPC-NL + B). At the end of study period, the percentage of subjects with an OGSS reduction of ≥50% in comparison with baseline was 53% in the HPC-NL group and 80% in the HPC-NL + B group (p = .05). Both treatments were well tolerated. In subjects with BNS, HPC-NL alone is associated with a clinically relevant improvement of nail appearance. The combination of HPC-NL and oral biotin is associated with further clinical improvement.

Phthalate and Organophosphate Plasticizers in Nail Polish: Evaluation of Labels and Ingredients

In the 2000s, nail polish manufacturers started promoting "3-Free" products, phasing out three widely publicized toxic chemicals: toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate (DnBP). However, DnBP was sometimes replaced by another endocrine-disrupting plasticizer, triphenyl phosphate (TPHP). Many new " n-Free" labels have since appeared, without any standardization on which n chemicals are excluded. This study aimed to compare measured plasticizer content against nail polish labels. First, we summarized definitions of labels. Then, we measured 12 phthalate and 10 organophosphate plasticizers in 40 nail polishes from 12 brands selected for popularity and label variety. We found labels ranging from 3- to 13-Free; 10-Free was the most inconsistently defined (six definitions). Our samples contained TPHP and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) at up to 7940 and 331 μg/g, respectively. The 5- to 13-Free samples had lower TPHP levels than unlabeled or 3-Free samples (median <0.002 vs 3730 μg/g, p < 0.001). The samples that did not contain TPHP had higher DEHP levels (median 68.5 vs 1.51 μg/g, p < 0.05). We measured plasticizers above 100 μg/g in five brands that did not disclose them and in two that excluded them in labels. This study highlights inconsistencies in nail polish labels and identifies TPHP and DEHP as ingredient substitutes for DnBP.

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.

[Cosmetic nail products]

Cosmetic embellishment of fingernails involves the use of substance that harden either after the evaporation of solvents (varnishes) or after polymerisation (artificial acrylic nails, gel tips, glue-on artificial nails). Pathological reactions to cosmetics usually occur at a remote site for varnishes, and, most commonly, in situ with polymerising substances. Unvarnished artificial nails do not affect pulse oximetry readings, and in theory, patients are not required to remove them. However, a real problem of contamination via artificial nails exists. Increased carriage of pathological Gram-negative organisms and of Staphylococcus aureus and yeasts has been noted among nursing staff wearing artificial nails, both before and after fingernail cleaning. Fingernail fragility manifests itself through a number of different physical signs such as soft, breaking nails, with longitudinal or transverse fissures, showing distal doubling or friability. In some subjects, excessive manicuring with metal instruments or manicure sticks results in rolled onycholysis, of evocative appearance, or transverse onycholysis.

Younger Cosmetology Workers and Environmental and Occupational Asthma Triggers at Training Sites and in Salons

Secondary school students in career, technical, and vocational education (CTE) programs include minors aged ≤17 years. These students enter the workforce starting at age 18 as young adults, and specifically in cosmetology after completing the State of New Jersey mandated 2-part licensing exam (theory and practical). The New Jersey Safe Schools Task Force 2010-2012 focused on potential safety and health (S&H) risks encountered by minors training in cosmetology. We conducted a stakeholder-driven participatory process with relevant state and federal agencies, private sector partners, teachers, administrators, and students from 1-in-3 of 21 county CTE school districts. We developed and disseminated Web pages ( http://www.njsafeschools.org/Cosmetology.htm ) with science-based information, materials such as “Right to Know” brochures in multiple languages (English, Spanish), and student-designed educational posters. Resources highlight S&H issues such as chemical exposures, including known environmental and occupational asthma triggers and respiratory irritants, for example, formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds. Asthma education professionals working in clinical management of chronic respiratory diseases can increase self-awareness of S&H in cosmetology. They can then help inform younger patients/workers with asthma, teachers, older employees, and managers/owners of hair, nail, and skin care salons of potential asthma triggers. The goal is to minimize exposures (S&H risks) among these professionals and their clients (general public).

Nail cosmetics in nail disorders

The clinical features of nail dystrophies depend on the part of the nail that has been damaged. Due to the important functions of fingernails and toenails, any abnormality of the nail causes impaired function of the hand or foot. Moreover, the aesthetic aspect of the nail may affect employability, self-esteem, and interaction with other people. Because the nails are often difficult to treat, cosmetology may be an effective support to medical treatment. Nail cosmetics may help the patient to cope with his or her nail dystrophy while waiting for treatment to show its efficacy. It may also be the only choice to hide nail dystrophy where the nail is irreversibly damaged. Nail cosmetics may also function at treatment for onychtillomania, nail biting, and nail ingrowing.

Sensitization to acrylates is a common adverse reaction to artificial fingernails

BACKGROUND

Although precise figures for adverse reactions to nail-care products are not available, it is thought that one of the main risks from artificial nails (ANs) is contact allergy.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the role of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) as a cause of adverse reactions related to the use of ANs.

METHOD

A 4-year retrospective study of patients with suspected ACD from ANs was conducted. Patients tested with the methacrylate artificial nail (MAAN) series were evaluated clinically and patch test results were analysed.

RESULTS

ACD to components of ANs may be a frequent cause of hand eczema, as observed in more than one-third of our patients (38.2%). About half of the patients were beauticians specializing in nail sculpturing who developed occupationally related ACD. All patients had involvement of the hands and fingers. Paronychia, nail dystrophy and onycholysis were less frequent. Dorsal hands and fingers, forearms and distant sites (face and neck) were more frequently affected in patients with occupational ACD (OACD). Typical clinical features were those of chronic dermatitis but atypical forms such as lichenoid and psoriasiform ACD were also observed. Mucosal erythema and oedema developed in two patients with ACD due to MAAN, after application of dental crowns with an acrylate-based cement. The most frequent allergens triggering ACD were 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (2-HEMA) and 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate (2-HPMA) (17.5% each), followed by ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (EGDM; 13.4%). A quarter of the patients tested with ethyl cyanoacrylate (ECA), a component of nail glue, had positive results.

CONCLUSIONS

Acrylic monomers used when sculpturing ANs are important contact and occupational sensitizers that can produce cross-reactions with other acrylic compounds and trigger allergic reactions when re-exposure occurs in a different setting.

Contact and primary irritant dermatitis of the nail unit diagnosis and treatment

Contact dermatitis of the nail unit is not rare. The most common allergens are found in nail cosmetics such as enamel, sculptured nails, and preformed plastic tips. Toluene sulfonamide formaldehyde resin, acrylates, and ethylcyanoacrylate are the most common allergens. Along with a proper clinical history focusing on nail practices, a thorough understanding of the common allergens and patch testing are necessary to diagnose contact dermatitis. A discussion of the common allergens and irritants relevant to the nail unit will be presented.

Artificial nails and psoriasis

When dealing with artificial nails, it is often mentioned that psoriasis is a contraindication because artificial nails may worsen nail psoriasis by Köbner phenomenon.(1) However, although not thoroughly discussed, other interactions between psoriasis and artificial nails exist. On the basis of clinical cases, the following interactions are described: worsening of psoriasis, the fact that psoriatic patients wearing artificial nails are more exposed to infections, and allergic risks. The clinical similarities that may exist between nail psoriasis and nail alterations caused by allergic reactions to artificial nails are also emphasized.

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.

Brittle nails

Nail brittleness is a common complaint characterized by weak inelastic nails that split, flake and crumble. It may be a consequence of factors that alter nail plate production and/or factors that damage the already keratinised nail plate. It is often idiopathic. It can also be caused by many dermatological and systemic diseases, nutritional deficiencies, drugs and traumas. Environmental and occupational factors that produce progressive dehydration of the nail plate have an important role in nail brittleness. Treatment of brittle nails is often difficult. Preventative measures, together with oral supplementation of vitamins (especially biotin), oligo-elements and amino acids, can be useful in improving nail strength. Cosmetic treatment affords camouflage and a degree of protection.