Protecting the Health 

of Nail Salon Workers 

UPDATED MARCH 2007 

United States 

Environmental Protection 

Agency 

Office of Pollution 

Prevention and Toxics 

 

EPA no. 744-F-07-001 

March 2007 

 
Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics and 

Office of Administration and Resource Management 

EPA 744-F-07-001 

May 2004, Revised March 2007

For more information, please visit: 

www.epa.gov/dfe/pubs/projects/salon/index.htm 
This document could not have been developed without the vital partnerships we 

established with our pilot nail salons and many individuals and organizations from the 

Asian-American communities in Houston, Texas, as well as federal, state, and local 

government agencies that lent their time and expertise. We are also grateful to our 

peer reviewers, who provided valuable assistance. We sincerely thank all of these 

individuals and organizations for the resources they provided and for continuing to 

inspire our efforts and motivate our work. These partners include: 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and 

Toxics, Design for the Environment Program 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - White House Initiative on Asian 

Americans and Pacific Islanders, Office of Administration and Resource 

Management 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Office of Environmental Justice 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Office of Air Quality Planning and 

Standards 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Regional Offices 

U.S. Food and Drug Administration 

U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration 

Asian American Health Coalition 

California Healthy Nail Salons Collaborative 

Center for Research on Minority Health at the University of Texas M.D. 

Anderson Cancer Center 

City of Houston 

Nails for You Training Academy 

Nail Manufacturers Council 

Pioneer Valley Project 

Saigon Houston Radio 

Texas Cosmetology Commission 

Texas Department of Health 

Vietnamese American Community Health Network 

Vietnamese American Physicians Group in Arlington, Texas 

Vietnamese Hung Vuong Association 

Vietnamese Public Radio 

University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston - School of Public Health 

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction...................................................................Page 1 

Best Shop Practices 

To Minimize Inhalation........................................................Page 2 

To Minimize Skin Exposure.................................................. Page 3 

To Prevent the Accidental Swallowing of Products........................ Page 3 

To Ensure Adequate Shop Cleanliness........................................ Page 3 

Other Best Shop Practices................................................... Page 4 

Gloves.......................................................................... Page 5 

Masks and Respirators...................................................... Page 6 

Best Shop Practices Checklist 

For Owners/Managers........................................................ Page 7 

For Workers.................................................................... Page 8 

Appendix 

Ingredients Table..................................................................... ii 

Liquid Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) Monomer Factsheet....................... v 

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)............................................ vi 

References...........................................................................viii 

Introduction........................................................................... i 

Additional Resources...............................................................ix 
pproximately 155,000 people work in the United States as manicurists and 

pedicurists. These trained professionals provide nail treatments including 

filing, polishing, applying artificial nails, and giving manicures and pedicures. 

Products that nail salon workers use are critical to performing high-quality services, and 

indeed, without them, these services would not be possible. However, many of the 

products contain ingredients that should be used and handled properly to minimize 

potential for overexposure. Professional nail care products are typically formulated to 

minimize exposure and the potential for adverse health effects. Also, nail salon 

products are typically used in small amounts, which can further lower the risk of 

overexposure. Yet, if proper care is not taken, overexposure may occur and could result 

in adverse health effects, such as skin irritation, allergic reaction, or serious eye injury. 

This guide recommends shop practices that nail salon workers and owners can use to 

minimize exposures and prevent overexposure. 

In addition, this guide will help you understand how to use Material Safety Data Sheets 

(MSDSs). These documents contain information for people working in many 

occupations including factory workers, shippers, warehouse employees, emergency 

responders, and doctors, as well as nail professionals who use these products to perform 

salon services. Not all of the information found on an MSDS is useful to nail 

professionals, but the information in the Appendix will help you better understand how 

to use these important documents properly and make your workplace safer. 

The Appendix also contains information on ingredients in nail salon products and the 

potential health effects that could be associated with overexposure. 

This guide was originally produced in response to requests from the Asian-American 

nail salon worker community in Houston, Texas, and the surrounding area. EPA’s 

Region 6, located in Dallas, Texas, in collaboration with the EPA’s Design for the 

Environment Program, in EPA’s Washington, D.C. headquarters, partnered with nail 

salons to document and encourage best practices to protect nail salon workers, owners, 

and customers. 

A 

INTRODUCTION

1 
eveloped in collaboration with pilot nail salons and other partners, the best 

practices recommended here are aimed at helping nail salon workers and shop 

owners improve working conditions and reduce or minimize product exposures. 

Since mandated state and local requirements may differ from these recommendations, 

always contact your local cosmetology board and/or your state health 

department for more information. 

TO MINIMIZE INHALATION

• Install a local exhaust ventilation system near work tables. Since the 

general heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems (HVACs) 

slowly exchange the air inside the shop, a nail salon should use a system 

intended to effectively capture vapors and dust or expel them from the 

workplace, as well as a system that will exchange indoor air with fresh air 

from outside the building to maintain good air quality. Nail salons 

should have one or a combination of the following: 

 - Work table with an exhaust vent embedded in it that is vented to the outdoors. 

 - Ceiling or wall-mounted exhaust system with exhaust intake suspended above the 

 work table. 

• Use professional quality room air cleaning devices. Avoid using ozone generating air 

cleaning devices. Healthy people, as well as those with respiratory difficulty, can 

experience breathing problems when exposed to even relatively low levels of ozone. 

• Always turn on the general ventilation system (HVAC) during work hours. 

• Replace charcoal and dust filters regularly and according to the manufacturer’s 

directions. If filters are not replaced, they will become ineffective. 

• Keep the top of the ventilated table clear of obstructions, e.g., towels. 

• Tightly close nail care product containers when not in use. 

• Do not use excessive amounts of product when performing services. 

• Keep products in properly labeled, smaller-sized containers at the work table. 

• Do not use bulk containers when performing services. Instead, transfer products from 

large containers to smaller, properly labeled containers. Perform this task in a wellventilated area, such as outside or near an open window or door. For additional 

protection, an organic vapor cartridge respirator may be worn during the transfer 

 process, but it is usually unnecessary if ventilation is 

 adequate. 

 • Place all waste in a metal trash can with a self-closing lid, 

and empty it often. 

 • Place all waste that has absorbed product, such as paper 

 towels, gauze, cotton, or other absorbent material, in a 

 sealed container (e.g., an empty plastic milk jug or 

 resealable bag) before disposing of it in the trash. 

 • Change trash can liners at least once daily. 

 • Wear a dust mask if recommended in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to 

prevent inhaling dust particles. 

D 

Wall-mounted exhaust vent 

located near workstation 

Exhaust vent embedded in nail 

care workstation 

BEST SHOP PRACTICES

2
TO MINIMIZE SKIN EXPOSURE

• Wash hands before and after performing each service, before eating, and after handling 

products. 

• Wear disposable nitrile gloves or the glove type recommended in the product MSDS 

when handling certain products. 

• Replace gloves immediately if there are signs of cuts, tears, or holes. 

• Choose appropriate clothing. Ensure that the clothing is not too loose in order to 

avoid accidental spills and that its coverage is adequate to help prevent skin 

overexposure to ingredients. For example, long-sleeved blouses or smocks protect 

arms; pants or skirts that are at least knee length when seated help protect the lap. 

• Keep containers tightly closed when not in use to prevent accidental spills or leakage. 

• Do not use excessive amounts of product when performing services.

• Keep products in small-sized containers at the work table to reduce the risk of spills 

and potential skin exposure. 

• While transferring products to smaller containers, wear safety equipment, e.g., eye 

protection and/or gloves as recommended in the MSDS, and use a funnel or dropper 

to avoid spills. 

TO PREVENT THE ACCIDENTAL SWALLOWING OF PRODUCTS

• Wash hands before eating and drinking. 

• Do not eat or drink at the work table. 

• Do not keep/store food and beverages around work area. 

• Store nail care products in a separate area away from food and the eating area. 

• Designate a dining area separate from storage and work areas. 

TO ENSURE ADEQUATE SHOP CLEANLINESS

It is important to keep your shop clean. Bacteria, fungi, and viruses can be transferred 

between customers through dirty nail implements and other supplies and equipment, e.g., 

towels and pedicure tubs. 

• Use a new towel for each customer. 

• Wash your hands and your customer’s hands and/or feet before each service. 

• Perform services only on healthy nails and intact skin. Refuse service to clients that 

show any signs of infection, unhealthy appearing conditions, or broken/irritated skin. 

• Clean any residue from all nail care implements after each use and before disinfection. 

• Disinfect all nail care implements with an appropriate disinfectant after each customer. 

3 
• Follow your state cosmetology board’s rules and instructions on proper cleaning and 

disinfection techniques. It is best to use an EPA-registered, hospital disinfectant 

labeled as viricidal, bacteriocidal, and fungicidal or a disinfectant as prescribed by 

your state cosmetology board. Follow usage instructions exactly. You may also 

choose to sterilize these disinfected items in an 

autoclave, if desired, or if required by your state’s 

regulations. 

• Do not put clients’ feet into water that contains an 

EPA-registered disinfectant and avoid skin contact with 

the disinfectant. 

• Use disposable implements on only one customer. 

• If gloves are worn, replace them after each customer. 

• Do not use razor-type shavers to remove calluses. 

These devices can cause injuries requiring medical 

attention. Licensing laws for nail salon workers and 

manicurists do not allow the use of cutting tools to remove living or callused skin. 

• Using nail implements owned by customers is not recommended. Problems can arise 

because clients may not properly clean and disinfect the implements. All implements 

must be properly cleaned and disinfected by the salon worker before use on a client. 

 OTHER BEST SHOP PRACTICES

• Do not allow anyone to smoke in your shop, because products stored and used in nail 

salons may be extremely flammable. 

• Provide training on hazard communication (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200) and the 

proper storage and handling of flammable liquids (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.106) to nail 

salon workers as required by OSHA. 

• Read and understand the state cosmetology board’s rules and regulations. 

• Keep a copy of the most updated state cosmetology board’s rules and regulations in 

the shop. 

• Keep the latest version of the MSDS for each product containing potentially 

hazardous ingredient(s) stored and used in the salon. 

• Keep all MSDSs in a binder, and store this binder in the same place you store your 

products. 

• Read and understand the content of these MSDSs. 

• Update all MSDS sheets at least once a year to keep them current. 

• Label all containers so that nail salon workers can easily identify the contents. 

• Dispose of liquid waste according to manufacturers’ instructions on the product label 

or MSDS and in accordance with local regulations. 

4 
5 

GLOVES

WHY SHOULD NAIL SALON WORKERS WEAR GLOVES? 

• To prevent damage to workers’ nails and skin. 

• To prevent skin from absorbing potentially harmful 

ingredients which may cause skin allergies, irritation, 

or other related problems. 

WHY DO SOLVENTS CAUSE MORE CONCERNS THAN

OTHER NAIL SALON PRODUCTS? 

• Skin can easily and quickly absorb certain solvents. 

• Solvents may damage skin by removing natural oils 

from the skin (defatting), which can lead to skin 

dryness and/or irritation, making it easier for other 

ingredients to enter the body. 

WHAT KIND OF GLOVES SHOULD NAIL SALON 

WORKERS WEAR? 

• Nitrile gloves provide the best protection – latex and 

vinyl gloves are permeable to many nail product 

ingredients and should not be used. 

• Always refer to the MSDS for recommendations on 

the kind of gloves to wear. 

HOW DO NAIL SALON OWNERS AND WORKERS FIND

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE TYPE OF GLOVES

TO WEAR? 

• Call the glove manufacturers and personal protective 

equipment distributors. Their phone numbers are 

listed in the phone book, on the box, and on glove 

manufacturers’ websites. These companies often 

offer technical advice and free samples. 

• Ask your shop’s nail care product distributor and 

personal protective equipment vendors.

SENSITIZATION

Sensitization or hypersensitivity 

reactions usually occur as a 

result of repeated or prolonged 

contact with a chemical 

substance that interacts with 

the body’s immune system. In 

some cases, an individual may 

develop a reaction only after 

encountering a material 

repeatedly or after continuous 

prolonged contact. Red or 

itchy skin, water blisters, and 

areas that throb or feel warm 

are signs of possible 

sensitization of the skin. 

EXAMPLE

After wearing latex gloves daily 

for several weeks or months, a 

previously unaffected person 

may develop a persistent rash 

on their hands and wrists. This 

sensitization may be caused by 

one of several components of 

the gloves acting as an allergen 

(allergy-causing substance). If 

this occurs, gloves made from 

other materials, such as nitrile, 

may be used. 
6 

MASKS AND RESPIRATORS

WHY SHOULD NAIL SALON WORKERS WEAR DUST MASKS?

• To minimize breathing in dust particles. 

• If you have asthma, allergies, or other breathing related 

conditions, and a nail service is expected to generate a lot of 

dust, it may be necessary to wear a dust mask to minimize 

breathing in particles. 

• Dust masks are intended to prevent inhalation of dust; they 

will not protect against inhalation of vapors. 

WHEN SHOULD NAIL SALON WORKERS WEAR DUST MASKS?

• When filing or shaping artificial nail enhancements. 

WHAT KIND OF DUST MASKS SHOULD NAIL SALON WORKERS

WEAR?

• Dust masks approved by the National Institute for 

Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), (e.g., N95 rated). 

• Follow manufacturers’ instructions when using these masks. 

• Refer to the MSDS to determine if it is necessary to wear a 

dust mask and which type might be best. 

 TYPES OF MASKS NAIL SALON WORKERS CAN USE TO PROTECT THEMSELVES

• Dust masks will protect you from dusts and particulates. 

• Surgical masks may help prevent the spread of germs but will not protect you from 

dusts or vapors.

WHY DON’T NAIL SALON WORKERS NORMALLY NEED TO WEAR RESPIRATORS WITH

ORGANIC VAPOR CARTRIDGES?

• The most feasible way of protecting nail salon workers is to provide adequate 

ventilation in the salon. Providing adequate ventilation eliminates the need for respirator use.

WHAT REQUIREMENTS EXIST FOR USING A RESPIRATOR IN NECESSARY 

CIRCUMSTANCES? 

Typically, an organic vapor respirator is not required. However, if a nail salon worker has 

a special need due to pre-existing health conditions, then the worker/shop owner should 

check the sources below to determine the proper type and proper fit guidelines, in 

accordance with the OSHA Respiratory Protection standard.

• OSHA has a Respiratory Protection standard that includes specific requirements such 

as training, fit testing, care and maintenance, and medical surveillance that shop owners 

and workers may need to follow when workers wear respirators. 

• Contact OSHA at (202) 693-1888 or (800) 321-6742 for more information on the 

requirements that apply to your shop or for a copy of the Respiratory Protection 

standard (29 CFR 1910.134) and/or the Hazard Communication standard (29 CFR 

1910.1200). To obtain an electronic copy, visit the OSHA website: www.osha.gov and 

enter the CFR number into the search function. 

Wear a dust mask to protect against dust inhalation 
‘ Post “No Smoking”, “No Eating”, and “No Drinking” signs in the shop’s work area. 

‘ Post a sign near the shop’s sink to remind workers to wash their hands before and 

after each customer, after handling chemicals, and before eating. 

‘ Require all customers to wash their hands and fingernails thoroughly before receiving 

service. 

‘ Perform services only on healthy nails and intact skin. 

‘ Post step-by-step procedures near the shop’s sink and in the shop’s work area on how 

to clean and disinfect nail instruments and other equipment that comes in contact with 

clients’ skin. 

‘ Properly ventilate each work station. Preferably, install an effective exhaust system 

with individual exhaust vents for each work table. If possible, the exhaust should be 

vented outdoors in a manner that meets local building code requirements.

‘ Keep the general ventilation system (HVAC) on during work hours.

‘ Place a metal trash can with a self-closing lid at every work station.

‘ Label all product containers clearly and properly.

‘ Purchase appropriate masks and gloves recommended in the MSDS for your 

employees. 

‘ Do not buy or use any nail product containing liquid methyl methacrylate (MMA) 

monomer.

‘ Designate a chemical storage area far away from the dining area and equipped with 

local exhaust ventilation.

‘ Provide an adequately ventilated dining area for nail salon workers, partitioned from 

the shop’s work area.

‘ Designate a storage place for a binder of MSDSs for all nail salon products.

‘ Ask for the most up-to-date MSDS for each product at least once a year.

‘ Inform employees where MSDSs are kept.

‘ Provide training required for reading and understanding MSDSs.

‘ Provide worker training on hazard communication and proper storage and handling of 

flammable liquids as required by OSHA.

‘ Maintain the latest copy of the state cosmetology board’s rules and regulations.

BEST SHOP PRACTICES 

CHECKLIST FOR OWNERS/MANAGERS
‘ Keep the top of ventilated tables or other vents clear of any obstruction, 

e.g., towels.

‘ Keep nail product containers closed when not in use.

‘ Do not use excessive amounts of product when performing services. 

‘ Keep nail products in smaller-sized, properly labeled containers at the work table.

‘ Keep a metal trash can near the worktable with a self-closing lid completely covered 

at all times.

‘ Place waste soaked with product in a sealed container before disposing of it in the 

trash container.

‘ Wear mask and gloves and protective eyewear, if recommended in the MSDS, when 

handling larger quantities of chemicals. 

‘ Wash hands frequently: 

• before and after working on customers. 

• before eating and drinking. 

• after handling products. 

‘ If there are visible signs of sensitivity or allergic reaction to a product, discontinue 

use immediately.

‘ Do not eat, drink, or store food at the work table.

‘ Use a clean or disposable towel and a new pair of disposable gloves for each 

customer.

‘ Use disposable nail implements on only one customer.

‘ Clean and disinfect nail care implements properly after each use. 

‘ Do not put disinfectants in the water when clients’ feet are in the footspa. Avoid 

skin contact when using disinfectants.

‘ Do not use sharp instruments to shave calluses or remove living skin.

‘ Do not allow smoking in the shop.

‘ Read and understand the content of MSDSs for each product used.

‘ Know where to find MSDSs in the shop.

‘ Dispose of all waste properly.

BEST SHOP PRACTICES 

CHECKLIST FOR WORKERS
INTRODUCTION

The following table describes potential health effects that may be 

associated with overexposure to some of the ingredients found in 

certain types of nail care products. For the purpose of this table, 

overexposure is defined as exposure exceeding safe limits established 

by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). 

Quantities of these ingredients in nail care products are typically small, 

and with proper usage and application techniques, exposure levels can 

be further minimized. Overexposure should not occur if proper steps 

are taken, as described in this guide. It is important to understand that 

nail care work can be performed safely if proper steps are taken to 

protect yourself. 

The Appendix also contains a more detailed explanation of Material 

Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) on page vi and a guide to interpret the 

information found on MSDSs on page vii. 

 

APPENDIX 

i 
 INGREDIENTS TABLE

POTENTIAL SYMPTOMS & HEALTH EFFECTS 

OF OVEREXPOSURE TO INGREDIENTS USED IN NAIL CARE PRODUCTS 

INGREDIENT USAGE SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE* 

Acetone 

Nail polish remover, 

fingernail glue 

removerA

Overexposure may cause headache, dizziness, irritation to skin, 

eyes, and throat, and central nervous system depression1

Benzoyl Peroxide Powder additive for 

artificial nailsA,B,E

Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, skin, nose, mouth, 

throat, and lungs, and skin rash2

Butyl acetate Nail polishA,D,F

Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, skin, nose, mouth, 

and throat, headache, drowsiness, skin rash, confusion and/or 

haziness1,2

Butyl methacrylate Artificial nailsA Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, skin, nose, mouth, 

and throat, shortness of breath, and skin rash2

Camphor** Nail polishD

Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, skin, nose, mouth, 

and throat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, 

and in extreme cases of overexposure, uncontrollable muscle 

contractions1,2

Dibutyl 

phthalate** 

Nail polish, 

nail hardenerC 

Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, stomach, and upper 

respiratory system. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations 

may be hazardous to human reproduction and development 

1,2,3

Ethyl acetate Nail polish,DE 

fingernail glueF

Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, skin, nose, mouth, 

and throat, skin rash, confusion and/or haziness1,2

Ethyl cyanoacrylate Fingernail glueA,C,D,G Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, mucous 

membranes, and skin, and skin sensitization2,4

Ethyl methacrylate Artificial nailsA,E,F,G Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, skin, and 

respiratory track, and skin sensitization2,4

Formalin**† Nail hardenerA

Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, nose, skin, throat 

and respiratory system, and wheezing. Prolonged exposure 

may cause asthma-like respiratory problems.5 Substance may 

be a carcinogen if inhaled in high concentrations or for long 

periods1,2,^

ii 
POTENTIAL SYMPTOMS & HEALTH EFFECTS 

OF OVEREXPOSURE TO INGREDIENTS USED IN NAIL CARE PRODUCTS 

INGREDIENT USAGE SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE* 

Hydroquinone** Artificial nailsA

Overexposure may cause irritation and inflammation to eyes, 

irritation to skin, skin rash, and in more serious cases of 

overexposure, colored urine, nausea, dizziness, rapid 

breathing, muscle contraction, and central nervous system 

excitement1,2

Isobutyl 

methacrylate Artificial nailsA Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, skin, nose, mouth, throat, and lungs3

Methacrylic acid Artificial nailsF,G

Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, skin, nose, mouth, 

and throat, burning of eyes and skin, shortness of breath, labored breathing, and cough2

4-methoxyphenol** Artificial nailsA Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes and skin, burning 

of eyes and skin, and central nervous system depression1,2

Methyl ethyl ketone 

Nail polish,D,E nail 

polish remover,C 

artificial nail 

remover 

Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, skin, nose, mouth, 

and throat, cough, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, vomiting, 

and skin rash1,2

Methyl methacrylate 

(typically not used - 

illegal in many 

states. See fact 

sheet on page v) 

Artificial nailsA

Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes, skin, nose, mouth, 

and throat, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, and skin 

rash1,2

Poly (ethyl/methyl 

Methacrylate) 

Powder for artificial nailsE,F,HOverexposure may cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and 

throat (by inhalation)6

Titanium dioxide** Nail polish, powder 

for artificial nailsA

Overexposure may cause lung fibrosis and may be an 

occupational carcinogen1 

Toluene Nail polish,A 

fingernail glue 

Overexposure may cause irritation to eyes and nose, 

weakness, exhaustion, confusion, inappropriate feelings of 

happiness, dizziness, headache, dilated pupils, runny eyes, 

anxiety, muscle fatigue, inability to sleep, feeling of 

numbness/tingling, skin rash, and in more serious cases of 

overexposure or intentional abuse, liver and kidney damage1,2,‡

Tosylamide 

Formaldehyde Resin 

(TFR Resin) 

Nail hardener,A 

nail polishI Overexposure may cause irritation to skin and skin rash4

5 

INGREDIENTS TABLE (CONT’D)

iii 
TABLE NOTES

FOOTNOTES

* Potential health effects depend on conditions of exposure, which may be minimized by 

working safely (e.g., ventilation and use of masks and gloves). 

** Quantities in nail care products are small and application techniques are designed to 

minimize the potential for exposure. 

† The term formalin describes aqueous solutions, particularly those containing 37 to 50 

percent formaldehyde and 6 to 15 percent alcohol stabilizer.5

^ A study has shown that formaldehyde concentrations in nail salons were comparable to 

those found in office buildings and did not increase when nail products were in use and 

ventilation systems were operating properly.7

‡ A study has shown that toluene concentrations in nail salons were below the OSHA safe 

limit.7 

USAGE COLUMN REFERENCES AND NOTES

A. OPI Products Inc. product MSDS or correspondence with Paul Bryson, O.P.I. 

B. Correspondence from General Dental Products 

C. Backscratchers product MSDS (available at: <www.backscratchers.com>) 

D. European Nail Factory product MSDS (available at: <www.european-nailfactory.com>) 

E. Kupa Incorporated product MSDS (contact: 800-994-5872) 

F. Nail Systems International product MSDS 

(available at: <www.nsinails.co.uk/content/msds>) 

G. Originails, E.O.H Industries, Inc. product MSDS 

(available at: <www.originails.com/msds/index.htm>) 

H. Star Nail International product MSDS (available at: <www.starnail.com/msds.htm>) 

I. Sally Hansen product MSDS (available at the National Institute of Health, Household 

Product Database: <http://hpd.nlm.nih.gov>)

SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE COLUMN REFERENCES

1. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH); Pocket Guide to 

Chemical Hazards; available at <www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/npg.html> 

2. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH); International Chemical 

Safety Cards; available at <www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcs/nicstart.html> 

3. Hazardous Substance Data Bank; profiles available at <http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov> 

4. National Library of Medicine; Haz-Map: Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Agents; 

profiles available at <http://hazmap.nlm.nih.gov> 

5. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA); Fact Sheet on Formaldehyde 

<www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_General_Facts/formaldehyde-factsheet.pdf> 

6. ESSCHEM Inc, Linwood, PA. Material Safety Data Sheets 

7. Industrial Hygiene Assessment of Toluene and Formaldehyde Concentrations in California Nail and Full Service Salons, Clayton Project, project no. 800-97276.00, Clayton 

Environmental Consultants, Santa Ana, CA, March 16, 1999. iv 
• Liquid MMA monomer was a commonly used ingredient in artificial nail 

products for many years. 

• Liquid MMA monomer is a chemical substance that reacts and hardens when 

mixed with powdered acrylic. 

• Liquid MMA monomer does not bond well to the natural nail without heavy 

filing with coarse abrasives, which may cause damage to the nail plate and 

bed. 

• Liquid MMA monomer may cause overexposed people to develop an allergic 

reaction, usually after repeated exposure. Continued exposure often results 

in a worsening of symptoms for individuals that have developed sensitivities 

to products containing this monomer. 

• Testing done on animals that had been exposed to high concentrations of 

liquid MMA monomer vapors suggests that excessive inhalation may cause 

damage to the respiratory system and to the liver. 

• In the early 1970s, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) received a 

number of personal injury complaints associated with the use of fingernail 

extenders containing liquid MMA monomer. After investigations and 

discussions with medical experts, the FDA concluded that liquid MMA 

monomer was a poisonous and harmful substance that should not be used 

in artificial fingernail products. Court rulings resulted in legal action against 

one firm, as well as several seizure actions and voluntary recalls to remove 

products containing liquid MMA monomer from the marketplace. More 

information is available at: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cos-nail.html

• Across the United States, at least 30 states have restricted or banned the use 

of liquid MMA monomer. 

• Unlike liquid MMA monomer, powder MMA polymers are considered safer 

because they will not penetrate the skin and do not pose the same risks as 

liquid MMA. 

FACTSHEET ON

LIQUID METHYL METHACRYLATE (MMA) MONOMER 

v 
WHAT IS AN MSDS?

• An MSDS is an important document that explains the risks, precautions, and 

response actions related to exposure to a particular hazardous material used as an 

ingredient in a product. An MSDS also explains the appropriate and best course of 

action should accidental overexposure occur. A sample MSDS is shown on the next 

page. 

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO KEEP MSDSS IN YOUR SHOP?

• Federal law requires that MSDSs must be kept in a nail salon and be available to 

employees during working hours. 

• Keep MSDSs in your shop to ensure that all employees: 

- Are aware of the dangers posed from potentially hazardous materials stored in the 

salon. 

- Know how to respond in an emergency or if overexposure occurs. 

- Know how to dispose of unused products properly. 

- Know what protective equipment (e.g., masks, gloves) should be worn when 

working with professional nail products. 

WHAT SHOULD NAIL SALON WORKERS DO WITH AN MSDS?

• Review and understand the content of an MSDS. 

• Know where they are kept in the salon. 

WHAT SHOULD NAIL SALON OWNERS DO WITH AN MSDS?

• Ask for the most up-to-date version of the MSDS at least once each year to ensure 

or verify that you have the most recent version. If a product is delivered without an 

MSDS, ask the manufacturer to send you the MSDS before using the product in the 

workplace. 

• Keep a binder that has an MSDS for all professional products stored and used in the 

salon. 

• Inform employees where MSDSs are stored. 

• Provide periodic training for reading and interpreting the MSDS. 

• Read MSDSs to know what kind of protective equipment (e.g., masks, gloves, eye 

protection) should be purchased for employees. 

HOW CAN YOU GET COPIES OF MSDSS FOR YOUR SHOP?

• Ask your nail products suppliers or distributors. By law, your distributors or 

suppliers must provide you with a copy of an MSDS for each product that contains 

a potentially hazardous ingredient. 

• You may also request an MSDS from the product manufacturer by calling the 

phone number provided on the label of the product container or by submitting a 

request on the product manufacturer’s website. 

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET (MSDS) 

vi 
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET 

 Manufacturer’s name and address 

 Emergency phone number 

 Lists hazardous components and safe exposure limits 

 Physical state (gas, liquid, or solid), boiling point, freezing point, vapor pressure, 

 specific gravity

 Flash point, extinguishing media, special fire fighting procedures, 

 unusual fire and explosion hazards, if any 

 Stability, incompatibility, hazardous decomposition or by-products, 

 if any

Routes of entry/exposure 

 Health hazards 

 Carcinogenicity 

 Signs and symptoms of exposure 

 Medical conditions generally 

 aggravated by exposure 

 Emergency and First Aid procedures 

 Steps to be taken in case material is released or spilled 

 Waste disposal methods 

 Precautions to be taken in handling and storing 

 Respiratory protection 

 Ventilation requirements 

 Personal Protective Equipment 

SECTION I: MANUFACTURER’S NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION 

SECTION II: HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS/IDENTITY INFORMATION 

SECTION III: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS 

SECTION IV: FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD DATA 

SECTION V: REACTIVITY DATA 

SECTION VI: HEALTH HAZARD DATA 

 SECTION VII: PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE HANDLING AND USE 

SECTION VIII: CONTROL MEASURES 

vii 

Call this number in 

case of an emergency 

Ingredient name 

can be found here 

 This section 

explains what may 

cause the product to catch 

fire and how to put out 

the fire 

 This section 

explains the hazards and 

symptoms workers may 

have if they are exposed to a 

harmful ingredient 

 This section describes 

the proper personal protective 

equipment (e.g. gloves) to wear and 

ventilation requirements when 

using this product 

 This section describes 

physical effects that may be 

experienced if overexposure occurs, 

as well as if certain illnesses can 

be made worse by exposure to 

this ingredient 

This section explains 

how to clean up spills 

 This section 

explains what to do in an 

emergency 

This section 

describes how to dispose 

of this product 

 properly 

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS (MSDS) 

 This section 

indicates if this product 

contains an ingredient that 

is listed as a potential 

cancer-causing 

agent 
1. Bryson, Paul. “A Quick Chemistry Lesson.” Beauty Tech. 20 December 2005. 

 <http://www.beautytech.com/articles/opi_chem_rpt.pdf> 

2. California Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Barbering and Cosmetology. 

 Methyl Methacrylate Monomer (MMA) Fact Sheet. California: 2002. 

3. “Healthy Cosmetology.” Toxics Use Reduction Institute. 

 <http://www.turi.org/content/content/view/full/2677/> 

4. Hill, Suzette. “The MMA Controversy.” Nails Magazine. September 2007: 102. 

 Reprinted with permission: <http://www.beautytech.com/articles/mma2.pdf> 

5. Moore, Booth. “Pointing a Finger at Discount Nail Salons.” Los Angeles Times. 

 28 January 2000, Home Edition: A1. 

6. Rudner, Lawrence. Job Demand in the Cosmetology Industry, 2003. National 

 Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences, 2003. 

7. “Safety in Nail Salons.” EZ facts®:Document No. 281. labsafety.com. 

 <http://www.labsafety.com/refinfo/ezfacts/ezf281.htm> 

8. Schoon, Douglas. Nail Structure and Product Chemistry, 2nd edition. Clifton Park, 

 NY: Delmar/Thompson Learning, 2005. 

9. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and 

 Prevention, Preventing Pedicure Foot Spa Infections. 

 <http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/pedicure.htm> 

10. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Air Quality Planning and 

 Standards, Technology Transfer Network.. Methyl Methacrylate. January 2000. 

 <http://www.epa.gov/ttn/uatw/hlthef/methylme.html> 

11. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, 

 Office of Cosmetics and Colors. Phthalates and Cosmetic Products. 

 <http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cos-phth.html> 

OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATIN (OSHA) CITATIONS FOR

LISTING INGREDIENTS IN MSDS 

1910.1200(g)(2): Each material safety data sheet shall be in English (although the employer 

may maintain copies in other languages as well), and shall contain at least the following 

information: 

1910.1200(g)(2)(i)(C)(1): The chemical and common name(s) of all ingredients which 

have been determined to be health hazards, and which comprise 1% or greater of the 

composition, except that chemicals identified as carcinogens under paragraph (d) of this 

section shall be listed if the concentrations are 0.1% or greater; and, 

1910.1200(g)(2)(i)(C)(2): The chemical and common name(s) of all ingredients which 

have been determined to be health hazards, and which comprise less than 1% (0.1% for 

carcinogens) of the mixture, if there is evidence that the ingredient(s) could be released 

from the mixture in concentrations which would exceed an established OSHA 

permissible exposure limit or ACGIH Threshold Limit Value, or could present a health 

risk to employees. 

viii 

REFERENCES AND RESOURCES
For more information, please visit: 

www.epa.gov/dfe/pubs/projects/salon/index.htm 

Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics and 

Office of Administration and Resource Management 

EPA 744-F-07-001 

May 2004, Revised March 2007