When it comes to nail care, it’s important to understand the role of acids in various nail products to achieve healthy, beautiful nails. This guide explores the world of acids in nail products, debunks common myths, and provides important safety tips for users.
Decoding the role of acids in nail products: separating fact from fiction
There is a lot of confusion about pH and its effect on the nail plate. Acids are often misunderstood.
Acids play an important role in nail products, but their presence often causes concern among consumers. Let’s start by detailing the basics of acids and their functions in nail care.
Types of acids found in nail products: organic and inorganic acids
Acids can be classified into two main types: organic acids and inorganic acids. Although carbon-containing organic acids are not “certified organic,” they are commonly found in nail products and are generally safe to use. Inorganic acids, on the other hand, are less common in nail care, but require more careful handling as they are potentially corrosive.
For example, vinegar is a harmless weak organic acid, while sulfuric acid is a dangerous strong inorganic acid. Don’t be intimidated by this word, because just because it’s acidic doesn’t mean it’s harmful. *We do not use strong inorganic acids in our nail products.
Busting Myths: Dispelling Common Misconceptions
Some acids and bases (alkaline) are corrosive to human skin and eyes and pose a danger to soft tissues. With this in mind, let’s debunk some common misconceptions about nail primers that contain acids such as methacrylic acid. Many people believe that methacrylic acid punctures the nail plate and improves adhesion, but this is a misconception. Methacrylic acid is actually a weak organic acid and does not dissolve the nail plate. In fact, I soaked my nail clippers in a 100% methacrylic acid primer for months without any damage. Unlike strong mineral acids that can harm the nail plate, methacrylic acid is safe for such use in the professional nail industry. This highlights the major differences between the types of acids and shows that they are not the same.
Safety first: Avoid using acids
Some acids are corrosive to the skin and eyes, but methacrylic acid is particularly potent. When using a primer containing this acid, it is important to avoid contact with skin and eyes. The nail plate is a highly cross-linked structure that resists damage from methacrylic acid. However, the skin and eyes are sensitive and can be rapidly damaged by contact. If this type of primer comes into contact with your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water and continue rinsing for at least 5 minutes to prevent further corrosion. Eye contact is even more serious. Rinse eyes and seek medical attention immediately.
The importance of protective equipment: protect yourself from potential hazards
For your safety, always wear gloves and safety glasses when using methacrylic acid primer. Remember, less primer is more. Applying too much can penetrate the side walls and cause pain and burns. Also, using too much primer will reduce its effectiveness. For best results, apply only a thin layer to a clean, dry nail plate.
Interestingly, pH is not a good indicator of nail damage when it comes to nail products, as methacrylic acid has a pH of 1 to 2, and this type of acid does not harm the nail plate.
Less is more: Apply acid sparingly
Moderate application of acid-containing nail products is key to preventing overexposure and potential skin irritation. By using these products sparingly and following recommended guidelines, users can achieve optimal results without compromising nail health.
educate users
Demystifying the acids found in nail products is the first step in helping users make informed choices about their nail care routines. By understanding the role of acids, debunking myths, and prioritizing safety, you can enjoy healthy, beautiful nails without fear or anxiety.
