METHYL METHACRYLATE

Substance information

The methyl group is one of the simplest arrangements of atoms in organic chemistry which can be found as a moiety of numerous organic molecules. The name „methyl“ is derived from methane, the member of the alkane hydrocarbon group with the lowest molecular weight. The methane molecule contains four hydrogen atoms each one bound to a central carbon atom. The methyl group is not an independent chemical entity and contains only three hydrogen atoms, the fourth binding site is generally used for binding to a larger, mainly organic molecule. Like all alkanes, methyl groups exhibit a particularly low chemical reactivity. Methacrylates are polymers or copolymers based on methacrylic acid and / or its esters.

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Function(s) of this ingredient in cosmetic products

ANTICAKING

Prevents powdered products from caking / sticking together

OPACIFYING

Reduces transparency and translucency by clouding the product

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Origin

synthetic

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Why are we talking about it?

Acrylates and methacrylates are suspected of being irritants and inducing/eliciting allergies (sensitisation). The facts: Exposure of consumers to acrylates and methacrylates has steadily increased, due to their increasing use in artificial nails and the appeal of semi-permanent nail polishes. Acrylates and methacrylates are neither sensitising nor irritating if used correctly (1). Indeed, they do not penetrate the nail plate and should not come into contact with the skin around the nail. Studies show that it is the subunits of acrylates and methacrylates (monomers) that can cause allergies and irritations, as well as respiratory and ENT problems in nail care professionals. These monomers aggregate to form the resin of the artificial nail or varnish (polymerisation). The final polymerised resin is neither sensitising nor irritating. If the polymerisation is not complete, residual monomers may persist. It is therefore essential to meticulously follow the instructions for use of the products (in particular the polymerisation time) and to check their quality (2). Key points to take away: Acrylate and methacrylate monomers may cause allergic or asthmatic symptoms or breathing difficulties when inhaled. Nail care professionals, who have the highest exposure to acrylates and methacrylates, should take every precaution to minimise their exposure to acrylate and methacrylate monomers. These precautions include wearing protective gloves as well as ensuring adequate workplace ventilation and exhaust systems. In order to limit exposure to acrylates and methacrylates, consumers should choose professionals who are competent and careful in the way they apply the products. In case of skin lesions around the nail, it is recommended to postpone the application of artificial nails or semi-permanent varnish. Sources: (1) Opinion of the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety SCCS/1592/17: https://ec.europa.eu/health/sites/health/files/scientific_committees/consumer_safety/docs/sccs_o_214.pdf (2) French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES/ ex-AFSSA-AFSSET): Risk Assessment for professionals exposed to products used in nail care and decoration, 2017: https://www.anses.fr/fr/system/files/CONSO2014SA0148Ra.pdf; https://www.anses.fr/en/content/professionals-working-nail-care-and-decoration-exposure-multiple-chemical-substances

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Further information

For the clarification of a suspicion of a contact allergy this substance can be routinely tested in the epicutaneous test at the dermatologist.

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Belongs to the following substance groups

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Regulating cosmetics

Cosmetics Ingredients are subject to regulation. Please note, different regulations may apply to cosmetic ingredients outside the EU.