Nail extension products are coatings applied over natural nails that provide a protective coating for the nail plate and may extend beyond the free edge of the natural nail to add length. These products are broadly classified into three categories: liquid/powder systems (acrylics), light-cured systems (gels), and wraps. The ingredients used in these systems are safe when applied by a properly trained nail professional. However, care should be taken to avoid prolonged or repeated direct skin contact due to the skin sensitization potential of some ingredients, and use should be discontinued immediately if skin irritation occurs. Some common ingredients found in nail products include:

• Acetonitrile: Found in artificial nail removers, this substance requires child-resistant packaging for all liquid household glue removers containing more than 500 milligrams of acetonitrile in a single container.

• Toluene sulfonamide/formaldehyde resin (TSFR): Used in some nail polishes to make the coating tough and resilient, TSFR also helps the polish adhere to the nail, adds gloss, and helps the product flow well when applied.

• Methacrylates: These substances have been identified in commercial nail products and have led to several adverse reactions.

• Cyanoacrylate glue: Used in wraps, this substance is a potential skin irritant.

• Fiberglass, fabric, or paper: These materials are used in wraps.

• Liquid and powder: These substances are used in acrylics.

• Ultraviolet (UV) light: Used to cure or harden gel nail products, there have been reports of skin cancer risk from UV exposure.

Polygel is a hybrid nail enhancement formula that is a combination of acrylic and gel. It is a type of nail extension product that is lighter than acrylic and hard gels, without sacrificing strength and stability, but without the monomer odor or excess dust. It is specially formulated for hard gel nail extensions, tip overlays, and sculpting. Polygel is a cruelty-free product that is never tested on animals and is made in the US.