Beware of MMA

Back in 1972, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) deemed that Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) is a poisonous and harmful ingredient when used as a liquid monomer. The FDA then received a court order stopping the use of MMA in all nail products. While the FDA halted the use of MMA by several manufacturers, it remains "under-ground" and some licensed salons and unlicensed facilities are still using products that contain MMA.

The Dangers of MMA

MMA can cause serious skin reactions, permanent nail damage and permanent nail loss due to over-exposure. Over-exposure can also cause damage to the respiratory system and to the liver.

Beyond general health concerns, MMA bonds so well and is so rigid that instead of snapping harmlessly off the natural nail, it holds tight and causes the natural nail to tear off.

Signs To Watch For:

• Unusually strong or strange odor that doesn't smell like other acrylic liquids;
• Nail extensions are hard and difficult to file, even if a coarse file is used;
• The nail extensions will not soak off in solvent normally used to remove acrylic nails.

Why Is It Popular?

When an acrylic nail product contains MMA, it sets up fast and adheres like no other product. These products cost about $15 per gallon compared to $215 per gallon for a name-brand ethyl methacrylate monomer that does not contain MMA.

The way it sets and its cost may be appealing to some business owners, but the health ramifications make it dangerous for clients and technicians. Simonson's is MMA free. It's the only healthy choice. It's what you'd expect... and what you deserve.

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