Chapter 5: To Dip or Not to Dip 2 CE Hours
Course overview This course discusses techniques for the application and removal of acrylic powder nails, commonly referred to as “dipped” nails. The course explains details regarding the pros and cons of this technique compared to gel and acrylic nails. Cosmetologists will review common ingredients found in acrylic products as they relate to FDA and OSHA Learning objectives Compare acrylic powder techniques to gel and acrylic nails. Identify the positive and negative indicators of offering acrylic powder services. Explain the steps for safe application and removal of acrylic powder nails. Introduction Nail care services are constantly changing; what is old is often new again. This is the case of the popular acrylic powder trend that recently resurfaced on social media
regulations and warnings. This course will also cover steps for application and removal to avoid health complications for the provider and client, along with the description of potential negative health results that have occurred with dipped nail procedures.
Identify and explain the OSHA and FDA regulations and warnings for use of acrylic products. List and define health complications, both for provider and client, resulting from acrylic powder services, and procedures to avoid them.
outlets. Nail technicians want to provide these services and need to understand the benefits and risks of the procedures.
WHAT IS AN ACRYLIC DIPPED NAIL?
Dip powder nails are somewhere between a regular manicure and a fake nail; they are considered a “diet acrylic,” according to celebrity manicurist Erica Marton (Prinzivalli, 2017). The color comes from pigment in the powder and the application does not require curing and hardening under a UV lamp. After the base coat, the nail is dipped in the colored powder and a sealant is applied. The dip manicure lasts longer than gel, normally three to four weeks and sometimes as long as six weeks. Cat Ferguson (2016) explains: Extensions, aka the artificially long nails you might think of when you hear “acrylics,” are not part of every dip manicure. For added length, the products are applied either over a tip – a long piece of plastic glued to the end of your nail – or over a form, a little sticker under your natural nail that guides the extension and peels off once the nail is hard. Dip nails can be applied quickly and they don’t take as much skill as acrylics. Depending on your nails and your lifestyle, the softer consistency of dip nails might add comfort, or increase breakage. According to Doug Schoon, chemist, nail industry consultant and president of Schoon Scientific, they are softer and more flexible than other extensions because of their chemical makeup. (Ferguson, 2016). Unlike regular acrylic preparation, acid-based liquid primer is not required for the acrylic dipping method, which can damage the nail (OSHA, 2017). According to the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA, 2017): More than 375,000 nail technicians working in salons across the United States face possible health hazards every day. Workers exposed to chemicals found in glues, polishes, removers, emollients and other salon products may experience negative health effects such as asthma and other respiratory illnesses; skin disorders (e.g. allergic contact dermatitis); liver disease; reproductive
loss; and cancer. Additionally, workers often endure muscle strains from awkward positions or repetitive motions and have a high risk for infection from contact with client skin, nails or blood. The powder dipping and brushing technique used to build artificial nails with acrylic powder is not new; it has been used since the 1970s. Dipping has as many supporters as it does detractors. Like any other nail procedure, the successful outcome and health of the provider and client depend on strict adherence to safety and hygiene guidelines. Sigourney Nuñez (2016) explains: Powder coating enhancements are making a comeback because they boast long-lasting and lightweight results when applied properly. A set of dip system enhancements will last four to six weeks while traditional acrylics last about three weeks. The technique is simple and fast. Because the dipping technique does not use an acid-based primer, proponents of the powder method believe there is less damage to the nail from peeling, splitting and lifting, as well as less breakage. Schoon says these products are safe and notes: It’s an old technique similar to fiberglass wraps and uses the same type of adhesive. In this case, the fiberglass is replaced by an acrylic powder. These are not much different and are just as durable. The powders are pretty inert and not likely to cause allergic reactions. Nail technicians push what they know, so they’ll swear one is more organic and safer, and they’re not. Gel manufacturers are out there implying that gels are healthier for the natural nails. There is no reason to believe that at all (Nuñez, 2016). Other professionals believe that acrylic powder is no different from other acrylic products and should be avoided due to potential nail damage, fumes and residue that may
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Book Code: NTNC0826
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