What is HEMA in nail products?
HEMA (Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) is a small methacrylate monomer used in many UV gels and gel polishes. It helps the product adhere to the natural nail and cure into a durable, glossy layer.
Di-HEMA Trimethylhexyl Dicarbamate (Di-HEMA) is a larger methacrylate compound used in many builder and fiber gels to give structure and strength. HEMA and Di-HEMA are two separate ingredients: a product can be HEMA-free and still contain Di-HEMA.
What does EU regulation say about HEMA and Di-HEMA?
Under Regulation (EU) 2020/1682, nail products that contain HEMA or Di-HEMA may only be sold for professional use. Their label must state that the product is for professional use only and carry the warning “Can cause an allergic reaction”. Because of these warnings, more and more nail technicians and their clients ask for products without these ingredients. A HEMA-free formula lets your brand meet that demand with a feature anyone can check on the INCI list.
Which CNC products are formulated without HEMA and Di-HEMA?
All CNC UV gels are formulated without HEMA. Our gel polish range and Fiber Gel (DHF) are also formulated without Di-HEMA. We are currently reformulating more of our UV gel ranges without Di-HEMA, and new formulas will be added as they become available.
Every product comes with its INCI list, so you and your customers can check the full composition.
Does a UV gel without HEMA perform as well as a standard gel?
Performance depends on the whole formula, not on a single ingredient. Our in-house R&D team, with our own chemist and colourist, develops and tests all our formulas for adhesion, flexibility, hardness, viscosity and curing behaviour.
Every product in our catalogue comes with full technical specifications, so you can choose the right formula for your brand before you request free samples.
How should my brand communicate HEMA-free on labels and in marketing?
Stick to the facts: “formulated without HEMA” or “formulated without Di-HEMA”. Avoid claims that suggest your product is safer than others: under Regulation (EU) No 655/2013, cosmetic claims must be truthful, substantiated and fair.
We supply the INCI list, SDS (Safety Data Sheet) and DDS (Dossies Data Sheet) for every product, so each claim on your label is backed by documentation.
Are CNC’s formulas TPO-free and TPHP-free?
Every CNC formula complies with the EU prohibition of TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide), in force since 1 September 2025 (Regulation (EU) 2025/877). Our range also already meets the TPHP (Triphenyl Phosphate) ban that applies from 1 January 2027.
As your European manufacturing partner, we monitor upcoming changes in EU cosmetics legislation and share them with you early, so you can prepare your range before new rules apply.
How do I switch my range to HEMA-free formulas with CNC?
You can go from first call to production in five steps.
- Book a video call. Discuss your current range, your markets and which products you want to offer without HEMA or Di-HEMA.
- Test free samples. You only pay for shipping, and we confirm sample requests within 72 hours on working days.
- Choose your formula and finish. Select from our standard range or have our R&D team develop a custom formula for your brand. Then add your own label, pad printing and premium packaging.
- Receive your documentation. We provide the INCI list, SDS and DDS. Safety assessment documentation (CPSR) is available on request. As the Responsible Person, your brand notifies its products in the CPNP. We supply the product information you need and guide you through the process.
- Go into production. Bulk is ready in approximately 15 working days after order confirmation and payment. Finished products take approximately 20 working days.
Ready to talk about the process?