The popularity of artificial nails is rising, notably with nail art. Contact allergies to methacrylates account for over 3% of occupational dermatitis and can severely affect both professionals and consumers. European legislation is pending and long-term consequences remain largely unknown.

To assess the clinical patterns, the allergens most commonly associated with positive reactions, and the socio-professional impact of (meth) acrylate allergy related to long-lasting nail polish.

A retrospective study was conducted by the group DAG of the French Society of Dermatology, reviewing all cases of allergic contact dermatitis caused by (metha) acrylates in cosmetic nail procedures. Data collected included age, sex, atopy, type of exposure (occupational versus non-occupational), dermatitis localisation, methacrylate causing positive patch test. In occupational cases, duration of work before the onset of cutaneous lesions and socio-professional impact.

All studied patients were female, with a mean age 31.9 ± 13.4 years. 55.4% had personal atopy. 93.6% applied nail polish to themselves, 51.9% to others with 72% in a professional context. 37.3% were occupationally exposed with a median activity duration of 24 months. Long-lasting nail polish was the most used for professionals (97.7%) and non-professionals (85%) and the most responsible for reactions (81%). Skin lesions involved fingers in 63.8%, face in 23.8% and were diffuse for 8.8%. 76.2% was exposed to other methacrylate-containing products (insulin pump, sanitary pad). Most frequent allergens were: 2-hydroxyéthyl méthacrylate (83.1%), éthylène glycol diméthacrylate (68.8%) and 2-hydroxyéthyl acrylate (50.6%). We observed a major professional impact for occupational activity: professional retraining was required in 21.6% and 8.4% of cases required reporting as an occupational disease. For the general studied population 19.2% had medical leaves, 14.4% of patients required an emergency department consultation.

The increasing use of long-lasting nail polishes has led to a rise in contact dermatitis cases. Strengthening regulations regulations and raising awareness among professionals and consumers is urgently needed.