How to Handle a Potential Client Who Believes They Have a HEMA Allergy

One of our students recently shared an exciting opportunity she came across on Facebook. A bride-to-be was seeking a nail technician for her wedding day to provide a manicure and pedicure for herself, and to treat her mother and bridesmaids for the big day. There was a catch—the bride mentioned she suspected she had a HEMA allergy and was specifically looking for HEMA-free services. This would make any newbie Nail Tech nervous!

It’s a fantastic opportunity for a nail technician to impress a client, secure wedding work, and potentially gain a loyal repeat customer! But how should you handle this situation?

The text says: "Hi everyone, I think I have a HEMA allergy (ingredient in gel nail polishI'm looking for a nice nail place to get a HEMA free manicure and pedicure for my wedding coming up in a month. Wanting to treat my mum and bridesmaids too. Anyone have any recommendations? Thank you!!"
Image of the potential clients’ post to Wedding Discussion Group – New Zealand on Facebook.

1. Start by Asking Questions

The first step is to understand the bride’s concerns. Your questions demonstrate your concern for her wellbeing and your expertise. Ask:

  • What makes her believe she has a HEMA allergy?
  • Has she been tested or consulted a medical professional about it?
  • What are her symptoms, and when do they typically occur?
  • How long ago did she last have symptoms?

This information will help you gauge the seriousness of her situation and determine the best course of action.

2. Understanding HEMA

HEMA (hydroxyethyl methacrylate or 2-HEMA) is a type of acrylic monomer commonly found in many nail products like liquid & powder systems, and gels. It brings some beneficial properties to the products like good adhesion and shine for example. Contrary to popular belief, HEMA isn’t inherently bad. However, when used improperly over time it can cause over-exposure, leading to an allergy. Once a person develops this sensitivity, even minimal contact with HEMA can trigger a reaction. Our Theory of Nails course includes information on managing chemical hazards.

Pro Tip: Keep up with industry experts like Doug Schoon, who offers valuable resources on understanding HEMA allergies. You can find some of his insights here.

3. Encourage Professional Testing

While you can take precautions, it’s always wise to advise the client to see a medical professional or an immunologist to get tested for a confirmed HEMA allergy. This not only provides clarity for the bride but also protects you as a professional by working within medically-backed information.

4. Explore HEMA-Free Alternatives

If the bride’s answers suggest she might indeed be sensitive to HEMA, you can consider HEMA-free alternatives. Many brands, like Artistic Nail Design, offer low-HEMA products. You can always verify this by checking the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for the products you use.

It is possible to use products containing HEMA safely with careful and accurate application in line with the manufacturers’ specifications – including carefully wiping inhibition layer away without having residue touch skin. Allergy or not, you should always be mindful not to touch your clients skin with product.

5. Consider a Trial Manicure

Well before the big day, if it sounds like she doesn’t actually have an allergy or you are confident you can minimise or eliminate exposure to HEMA,  suggest doing a trial manicure. Explain your reasoning and approach, and what you will do if she seems to be allergic so you have mutual consent before taking any risk. This trial allows you to test if she reacts to your products, and gives her peace of mind.

If using HEMA-based products when a sensitivity is known it’s critical that none of the product touches her skin. A healthy nail plate acts as a barrier, so HEMA should not penetrate it, keeping the client safe from any potential reactions.

6. You Can Say No!

You can say no. If the information you’ve gathered tells you she is likely to react to your products, and you are not willing to invest extra time and effort to minimise or eliminate HEMA exposure risk in your service, wish her well and refer her to other nail techs.

So, Can I Service A Client With a HEMA Allergy?

You can! Handling a potential HEMA allergy with care, professionalism, and knowledge not only ensures the client’s safety but also positions you as a thoughtful and knowledgeable technician. This kind of expertise can turn a one-time bride into a lifelong client!

Even if this bride doesn’t become your client, demonstrating your expertise like this (especially in a space like Facebook where other potential clients might see your response) positions you as a knowledgeable professional worth consulting – and booking!

Cement Your Knowledge

Brush up on the understanding needed to handle these situations with confidence – sign up for The Theory of Nails, which thoroughly covers client consultations, chemical hazards and more. If you use my code “Anthea”, you’ll get 10% off any course – and I’ll get a small kickback!

All Monaco students and grads are also part of our community – with access to chat groups and our fantastic private Facebook community full of support and knowledge from other students, graduates, and our mentoring and management team. See you there!

Anthea

Bonus! Hear Penny, Pat and Erin discuss “Dealing with allergies in the nail salon” in this Salon Snippet from the Salon Success Podcast with Monaco Nail Academy.