Contact allergy caused by acrylates in nail cosmetics: A pilot study from Greece

Background The growing popularity of nail techniques based on acrylates has led to a higher frequency of sensitization in both nail technicians and users. Objectives The study aimed to assess cases of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) caused by acrylates in individuals with occupational or non‐occupational exposure to nail techniques. Methods A preliminary study was conducted on 30 patients with ACD caused by acrylates in nail techniques, who were patch tested from September 2022 to March 2023 at the First Department of Dermatology and Venereology of Andreas Syggros Hospital, Athens, Greece. Results Thirty female patients with ACD to acrylates were documented (15 users and 15 nail technicians and users). The most common allergens were: 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), 2‐hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA) and ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA), which tested positive in all 30 patients (100.0%). Twenty patients (66.7%) had been exposed to dental procedures involving acrylates, before the onset of ACD. Nail technicians exhibited extensive skin lesions, 40.0% experienced ACD within the first year of work and 13.3% during their professional practice. Three of them (20.0%) had to discontinue their work. Conclusion Acrylates have been identified as potent allergens, necessitating the implementation of safety measures for the use of these chemicals in nail techniques. Acrylates represent potent allergens, with HEMA notably emerging as one of the most sensitizing monomers. A requirement exists for the implementation of more stringent policies regarding the use of these substances in aesthetic procedures.