A research project led by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), focused on studying workplace exposures in nail salons, has concluded following changes in federal staffing and funding.

STUDYING CHEMICALS IN NAIL PRODUCTS

The study, led by environmental engineer Paro Sen, a member of AFGE Local 3840, was designed to better understand how ingredients commonly found in nail products may impact the health of nail technicians over time. The project included plans to work directly with salons to conduct field research and provide science-based safety recommendations.

“The chemistry that goes into creating nail products is impressive,” Sen says. “Some ingredients, however, may affect health at high concentrations or if not used under recommended conditions.”

NIOSH has previously supported the nail community through free Health Hazard Evaluations, as well as online resources on ventilation and workplace safety, including reopening guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic. These services were created to offer support for small businesses and service professionals who may not have access to occupational health consultants.

Due to recent changes, several research roles are being phased out, and programs like the Health Hazard Evaluation may face reduced capacity in the future.

Sen notes that while larger industries often receive routine occupational safety attention, small service businesses like nail salons are less frequently studied. “NIOSH had the capacity to examine workplace safety specifically in salons—from chemical exposure to ventilation systems,” she explains. “As this work concludes, continued awareness and education remain important, especially as product options continue to evolve.”

INSIDE THE NAIL INDUSTRY

From within the professional beauty industry, concerns about the products used in nail services—and the oversight surrounding them—are not new.

Jaime Schrabeck, Ph.D., a licensed manicurist, salon owner, educator, and advocate for professional standards, has spent decades addressing these very issues. Known for her leadership in licensing, sanitation, and business practices, Schrabeck remains a vocal champion for elevating the nail profession through education and advocacy.

 "As beauty professionals, we rely on manufacturers to provide us with “safe” products, but how do we know what’s really safe?" Schrabeck commented.  "Which chemicals are dangerous and at what level of exposure? 

How do we protect ourselves and our long-term health without scientific evidence? Eliminating the funding for NIOSH research makes us even more vulnerable, reducing our understanding of the risks and limiting our ability to make informed decisions."