Harmful Ingredients in Builder Gels

Also: 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl 2-methylpropenoate

Most common sensitizer in nail products. Can cause permanent allergic contact dermatitis with repeated exposure.

Also: Di-HEMA Trimethylhexyl Dicarbamate

Cross-reactive with HEMA. Found in many 'HEMA-free' products as a replacement — still allergenic.

Also: Methyl Methacrylate, Methyl 2-methylacrylate

Banned in nail products in many US states. Extremely strong bond that can rip natural nails on removal.

Also: Hydroxypropyl Methacrylate, 2-Hydroxypropyl methacrylate

Methacrylate monomer with similar sensitization risk to HEMA.

Also: Formalin, Methanal

Known carcinogen. Banned in nail products in the EU.

Also: Isobornyl Acrylate, Isobornyl 2-propenoate

Potent acrylate sensitizer linked to epidemic contact dermatitis outbreaks.

Also: Benzene-1,4-diol, Quinol

Polymerization stabilizer classified as a possible carcinogen; banned in EU cosmetics.

Also: Ethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate

Cross-linking agent that can trigger reactions in HEMA-sensitized individuals.

Also: Butyl Methacrylate, n-Butyl methacrylate

Methacrylate monomer. Lower sensitization risk than HEMA but still potentially reactive.

Also: Methylbenzene, Toluol

Solvent linked to neurological effects with prolonged exposure.

Also: Dibutyl Phthalate, Di-n-butyl phthalate

Plasticizer and potential endocrine disruptor. Banned in EU cosmetics.

Also: Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide, 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide

Photoinitiator used in UV/LED gel systems. Potential sensitizer and endocrine disruptor concern.

Can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Toxic if ingested.