What is banned in the USA due to poor adhesion to the nail plate and difficulty of removal?

Methyl methacrylate monomer (MMA) is banned in the USA primarily because of its poor adhesion properties to the nail plate and the challenges associated with its removal. MMA adheres too strongly to the natural nail, which can lead to significant damage during the removal process. This strong adhesion also raises concerns about the health and safety of clients, as improper removal can result in painful damage to the nail bed and surrounding tissue.

Furthermore, the use of MMA has been linked to various health risks, as vapors can be irritating to the respiratory system and skin, leading to concerns about both short-term and long-term effects on nail technicians and their clients. Regulations were put in place to protect consumers and professionals from these harmful effects, solidifying its ban in the nail industry.

On the other hand, methacrylates and acrylics, while closely related to MMA, are formulated to mitigate many of its problematic characteristics, making them safer for use in nail products. Photoinitiators are essential components in light-curing systems but do not pose the same issues surrounding adhesion and removal as MMA.