What is MMA Acrylic Nails?
No, we’re not talking about Mixed Martial Arts, here – if only! – but a chemical known as Methyl Methacrylate.
This chemical is one that has been used in a variety of different nail polishes and paints over the years and has been classes as a toxic chemical by the FDA.
How did it end up in paints?
It wasn’t classed as toxic for years after its initial use and made its way into a lot of products.
Surprisingly, this chemical is still used in many types of acrylic paints and products even now!
For example, it is often used in the dental industry to build bridges and crowns because it solidifies into a hard cement-like consistency.
As a result, it has been used to help with various types of joint repair procedures, as it helps to keep the bone strong and protected from various types of decay.
Unfortunately, discount nail salons or those looking to save money may use this type of acrylic on their clients’ hands.
While they do make a more solid and rigid nail, this consistency could make them much easier to break.
Even worse, the compound could absorb the nail plate and the skin pores and cause a myriad of different health problems.
Even worse, they are much harder to remove than other acrylics.
Signs Your Tech is Using MMA
As the dangers of MMA reach the general public, more and more nail salons refuse to use it at all.
However, some still cling to these products for a variety of reasons.
Whether they honestly think that they work better than alternatives or don’t have the money to switch, they are likely to hide their use of this chemical from you.
As a result, you need to pay attention to the obvious signs mentioned below.
Cheap Nail Prices
The most obvious sign of MMA is much lower nail costs than other salons. Products that use EMA – a safer alternative to MMA – charge more because products with EMA cost more.
As a result, those salons that want to save money and charge less use MMA instead of EMA.
Obviously, not every shop that has low prices uses products with this chemical, so make sure to look for other signs.
Burning or Itching Sensations
Getting your nails done should never hurt or sting.
However, MMA can cause an itching or burning sensation when applied to your fingers.
Don’t listen to your tech if they claim that EMA products cause this reaction – they don’t.
The moment that you notice this sensation, you have likely confirmed the use of MMA.
However, you may want to use other signs, first, to avoid this discomfort.
A Fruity Smell
All nail chemicals should have a pretty potent smell.
However, products that use MMA have a quite “fruity” smell that may make you feel a little sick to your stomach.
And while other products with EMA may have a powerful smell, they should never make you feel sick.
Try to avoid these salons because they likely still use MMA products.
Secretive Behaviors
Do your nail technicians try to hide the products that they use on your nails?
Or do they refuse to talk about them or have to go into a back storage room to get some?
These signs all point to the use of MMA. Remember – this chemical is banned for use in this industry but is still circulating and even being manufactured because of the high demand for cheap nail products.
What to Do If They Use MMA
If you believe that your nail salon is using MMA-based products, you should talk to local law officials right away.
Discuss the products with them, including the fact that they are banned, and let them know of any proof that you may have that shows the use of these products.
They will call in outside experts, such as public health inspectors.
These professionals will check for MMA, confiscate it, and fine the salon.
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