Ingredient Checker
Search any builder gel, gel polish, or BIAB brand to see disclosed HEMA, Di-HEMA TMHDC, HPMA, MMA, TPO, and related sensitizing ingredients.
What this checker screens — and what a result means
HEMA (2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) is a well-recognized contact allergen used in gel nail products. Results describe the ingredients found in a reviewed disclosure; they are not a certification that a product is allergy-safe or that its current formula is unchanged.
Evidence sources: FDA nail product guidance EU HEMA and Di-HEMA restrictions
- HEMA
- Di-HEMA TMHDC
- MMA
- HPMA
- Formaldehyde
- Toluene
- +7 more
How to Use the Ingredient Checker
- 1
Type your product name
Enter a brand name (e.g. "Gelish") or full product name (e.g. "Modelones Builder Gel Clear") into the search box above.
- 2
Review the ingredient report
We display the disclosed ingredient list with flagged ingredients highlighted and a plain-language ingredient status.
- 3
Compare the full disclosures
If a product discloses HEMA or another flagged ingredient, we link to options whose reviewed disclosures do not list HEMA. Compare every listed ingredient and the current package because HEMA-free does not mean allergy-proof.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HEMA and why is it flagged in nail products?
HEMA (2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) is a monomer used in gel nail products and a well-recognized contact allergen. Repeated or uncured skin exposure can contribute to sensitization. A clinician can evaluate suspected allergy and advise on related methacrylates.
Is Di-HEMA TMHDC the same as HEMA?
Di-HEMA TMHDC (Di-HEMA Trimethylhexyl Dicarbamate) is a different methacrylate and a recognized sensitization concern. A product can be marketed as HEMA-free while disclosing Di-HEMA TMHDC, so our checker reviews and flags the two ingredients separately.
How does the ingredient checker work?
Type a product name or brand into the search box. We search our database of builder gel and BIAB products and display the disclosed ingredient list with any sensitizing ingredients highlighted. Results use descriptive ingredient status labels rather than blanket safety claims.
What ingredients does the checker screen for?
We screen for 13 flagged ingredients including HEMA, Di-HEMA TMHDC, MMA (Methyl Methacrylate), HPMA, EGDMA, BMA, Formaldehyde, Toluene, DBP (Dibutyl Phthalate), Camphor, TPO, IBOA, and Hydroquinone.
My product isn't in the database — what should I do?
Check the ingredient list on your product packaging or the brand's website. Look for any ingredient ending in 'acrylate' or 'methacrylate' — these are monomers worth researching. HEMA specifically appears as '2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate' or '2-hydroxyethyl 2-methylpropenoate' on INCI labels.