Ask anyone who enjoys getting their nails done about nail extensions, and you'll likely hear about long-lasting, sculpted acrylics. Methyl methacrylate, or MMA, often comes up in these conversations. It's not new—salons have used it since the 1970s. Over time, people learned more about its risks, and many questions popped up about whether this chemical belongs anywhere near nail beds.
Some nail technicians see MMA as a cheap shortcut to glossy, durable acrylics. The substance sticks to nails like glue and tends to deliver a rock-hard finish. On paper, this might look like a good deal for both the technician and the customer: stronger nails, longer wear, less maintenance.
Trouble often shows up after a few weeks. MMA tends to be too strong for the natural nail. Rather than flexing or gently growing out, these extensions can damage nail beds, sometimes pulling off entire layers when removed. Customers walk in for beauty, and sometimes leave with pain and lifelong nail issues. Dermatologists see patients who complain of persistent inflammation or even allergic reactions—redness, swelling, or blisters around the nail. Those aren’t rare accounts; stories like these have pushed medical experts to call for more regulation.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has warned against using MMA for nail enhancements. Several U.S. states and Canada have outright banned the use of MMA in salons. Still, laws tend to trip over weak enforcement. Cheap MMA-based products find their way into salons through online retailers selling at rock-bottom prices. Technicians get drawn in by cost savings, sometimes not realizing that safer alternatives exist.
For those of us who grew up in neighborhoods where discount salons pop up on every block, stories about MMA aren’t rare. Looking at the tools and products used becomes second nature. Nearly everyone knows someone who had an infection from a bargain acrylic set. It’s frustrating to think that saving a few bucks could lead to scars or permanent disfigurement. The lack of transparency in some salons can keep customers guessing.
Salons have better tools now. Ethyl methacrylate (EMA) has replaced MMA in most reputable shops. EMA costs a bit more, but doesn’t carry the same health risks. Training plays a big role. States and beauty schools need to teach future technicians how to recognize safe products and handle chemicals properly. Customers also have a role—asking about ingredients, checking smell, and looking for business licenses. MMA has a strong odor, almost fruity yet harsh, that lingers in the air. Any technician brushing on a thick coat that produces a burning sensation or leaves white spots probably isn’t using a safer acrylic.
Long term, more than regulation needs to happen. Awareness through health campaigns, honest labeling, and ongoing learning creates a safer environment for both workers and the public. No one wants their beauty routine to cause harm. Sharing real stories and facts about methyl methacrylate helps people make informed choices next time they’re in the salon chair.
