Course on the safe use of HEMA products and nail products

Welcome to Finnails' safety training!
This page is designed to ensure that you understand the basics of the safe use of HEMA products and other professional products in accordance with EU cosmetics legislation. The purpose of these guidelines is to protect both professionals and their clients from potential risks. At Finnails, we want you to continue your nail career for as long as possible, which is why safety is important to us.

1. What is HEMA and why is product safety important?

HEMA (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) is a common ingredient in nail care products, such as gel polishes and building gels. Although HEMA allows for excellent durability and high-quality results, it can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation if used incorrectly. The EU strictly monitors cosmetic products and all Finnails products are registered according to European standards.

Why do HEMA products require special care?

• EU cosmetics legislation specifies that HEMA products are intended for use by trained professionals only. This regulation protects the user and the customer from the risks of misuse of chemical compounds.
• When used correctly, HEMA products are safe and provide long-lasting results. However, improper use can lead to exposure and allergic reactions.

2. Principles of safe use

Safety starts with the right practices and tools. Always follow these guidelines:

2.1 Protective equipment

• Use only in well-ventilated areas.
  Make sure your workspace is clean and well-ventilated to prevent chemical fumes from evaporating. If necessary, use an air purifier that removes volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Although gels may not smell at all, they can still give off chemical fumes.

• Wear suitable protective gloves.
  Choose nitrile gloves , which are more resistant to chemicals than latex or vinyl gloves. Nitrile gloves provide more effective protection against possible splashes and skin contact with HEMA products. Gloves should also be worn when handling nail product packaging and work tables, as uncured product may be located in these areas. Replace gloves immediately if they become damaged. Also, do not wipe uncured products onto nitrile gloves. We also recommend wearing a long-sleeved shirt and apron to keep your work hygienic and protect yourself.

• Protects the respiratory tract.
  Always wear an FFP-3 respirator, which provides effective protection against fine dust and chemical fumes from nail products. This is especially important when filing or working in poorly ventilated areas. A fume hood and/or nail dust extractor are very important for protection.

• Use eye protection if necessary.
  Safety glasses can prevent splashes or dust from getting into your eyes.

2.2 Correct application technique

• Apply the product carefully without touching the skin.
  Make sure that the nail product does not come into contact with the skin or cuticles. If skin contact occurs, clean the area immediately with a suitable cleanser.

• Only work on healthy skin and nails.
  Never apply nail products to broken skin, cuticles, or diseased nails.

• An under-cured product is always a risk.
  Make sure all HEMA products are carefully cured in a UV or LED lamp according to the manufacturer's instructions. Under-cured product contains unreacted monomers that can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. Make sure you are using a professional-grade lamp that provides sufficient power and meets the product's requirements.

2.3 Cleanliness and sterilization of instruments

• Sterilize and disinfect equipment correctly.
  All equipment used in nail art should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between each client, as should table surfaces and equipment.

• Special care should be taken with instruments that come into contact with blood.
  All instruments that may come into contact with blood should be effectively sterilized using an autoclave or similar sterilization method.

3. Legislation and liability

• EU cosmetics legislation sets clear requirements for the use of HEMA products: only trained professionals can use these products. This regulation is designed to protect both the user and the customer from potential harm.
• As a professional, you are responsible for using products appropriately and ensuring that your client's safety comes first. Remember to also discuss the risks of allergy with your clients openly.

4. HEMA used correctly and its benefits

• Professional-quality HEMA products guarantee long-lasting and beautiful nail art. The hardened acrylate does not pose a danger to the customer. Acrylates are also widely used in healthcare, for example.
• When used correctly, HEMA products are safe and comply with the highest EU quality standards. At Finnails, we care about you, so we want to provide as much information as possible about product safety!

5. Accept and continue shopping

Before you can purchase HEMA products from our online store, you must confirm that you have read these instructions and understand your responsibilities under EU regulations.