In the pursuit of beautiful nails, we often overlook a simple but important question: What exactly are we putting on them? At BeautyBar SGV, we believe that beauty and health should always go hand in hand. That’s why we’re taking you behind the scenes to explore the science of nail products—so you can make informed choices that protect your nail health without sacrificing style.

Understanding Common Nail Systems

💅 Gel Polish & Structured Gel

Gel products work through a fascinating process called polymerization, where liquid materials harden into a durable finish under UV or LED light.

• Common Ingredients:

  • Oligomers & Monomers: The foundational building blocks that harden into a flexible, long-lasting gel coating.

  • Photo-Initiators: Special ingredients that trigger hardening when exposed to UV or LED light.

• Is It Safe?
  When properly formulated and cured, gel products are safe and non-damaging. The main concern is HEMA (Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate), a known allergen present in some gels. At BeautyBar SGV, we prioritize low-HEMA or HEMA-free gel systems to reduce the risk of skin sensitivities and allergic reactions. Proper curing is equally important—under-curing can leave uncured monomers on the nail surface, which may cause irritation. That’s why professional application makes all the difference.

🌸 Dip Powder Systems

Dip powder nails have become incredibly popular for their durability and vibrant finishes. But what’s really happening during this process?

• Common Ingredients:

  • Cyanoacrylate Adhesive: A fast-drying adhesive (used in medical-grade applications), which hardens on contact with powder.

  • Polymer Powders: Usually cosmetic-grade acrylic powders such as PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) that add color and strength.

• Is It Safe?
  It’s a common misconception that dip powder products contain MMA (Methyl Methacrylate)—they do not. MMA is associated with liquid monomers used in acrylics, not dip systems.

The real concern with dip powder is low-quality adhesives and powders that can lead to skin sensitivities, brittle nails, or lifting. At BeautyBar SGV, we use only premium dip systems, formulated for cosmetic use and designed to minimize irritation while promoting healthier natural nails.

✨ Acrylic Enhancements

Acrylic nails have long been favored for their strength and sculpting versatility, but not all acrylic systems are created equally.

• Common Ingredients:

  • Liquid Monomer: Typically EMA (Ethyl Methacrylate), a cosmetic-grade monomer safe for nail applications.

  • Acrylic Powder: Commonly PMMA, which forms the hardened structure when combined with monomer.

• Is It Safe?
  Yes—when the right monomer is used. MMA (Methyl Methacrylate), once popular in cheaper nail salons, is banned or heavily restricted for cosmetic use because it bonds too aggressively to the natural nail, leading to nail plate thinning, damage, and long-term sensitivity.

At BeautyBar SGV, we exclusively use EMA-based acrylic systems, which are both safer for your natural nails and easier to remove without aggressive filing or harsh chemicals.

Ingredients to Avoid for Healthier Nails

• MMA (Methyl Methacrylate): A banned, industrial-grade monomer too harsh for cosmetic nail use.

• High Concentrations of HEMA (Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate): Known to cause allergic reactions, redness, and skin sensitivity when present in high amounts.

• Low-Quality or Unregulated Products: Often labeled under vague terms like “resins” or “adhesives,” these products lack proper safety testing and cosmetic certifications.

How BeautyBar SGV Chooses Safer Products

We don’t just keep up with trends—we carefully curate every product with your health and long-term nail wellness in mind. From luxurious Japanese gels to HEMA-free structured gel systems and high-quality dip powders, everything we use is selected to support strong, beautiful natural nails underneath it all.

And because how products are applied matters just as much as what’s in them, our team is trained on advanced techniques that prioritize safe application and gentle removal—protecting your nails at every step.

Questions to Ask Your Nail Technician Before Your Next Appointment

• Do you use HEMA-free or low-HEMA products?

• Are your products MMA-free?

• What’s your removal process to protect the natural nail?

• How do you support natural nail health between services?

(Tip: Save this checklist for your next appointment—or better yet, share it with friends who care about their nail health!)

Conclusion: Knowledge Is the Ultimate Beauty Tool

Beautiful nails should never come at the cost of your health. When you understand what’s being applied to your nails, you’re empowered to make choices that protect their strength, integrity, and beauty for years to come.

Looking for expert guidance? Visit us at BeautyBar SGV, where beauty meets well-being, and every service is rooted in care, connection, and your long-term nail health.

Learn more in our Nail Glossary