On 20 November 2024, the United States notified a draft amendment to the Californian regulations. The aim is to include Methyl Methacrylate in the list of Priority Products.
Methyl methacrylate (CAS No.80-62-6, EC No.201-297-1, INCI: Methyl Methacrylate ) is an ingredient listed in Cosing. Its function is not indicated, but it is mainly used in nail care products and varnishes.
The substance is not currently regulated by the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009, but it is listed in Annex VI/607-035-00-6 of the European CLP Regulation 1272/2008, with the following classifications:
• Flam. Liq. 2, H225 - Highly flammable liquid and vapour
• STOT SE 3, H335 - May cause respiratory irritation
• Skin Irrit. 2, H315 - Causes skin irritation
• Skin Sens. 1, H317 - May cause an allergic skin reaction
In march 2024, the Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) confirmed that the substance should also be classified as :
• Resp. Sens. 1, H334 - May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled
The substance is already banned for use in cosmetics in some countries, such as Canada and New Zealand (from 31 December 2025).
The Californian proposal
The Californian Department of Toxic Substances Control DTSC) proposes to add nail products containing methyl methacrylate (MMA) – including nail coatings and artificial nails – as a Priority Product to …
