Non-acrylate UV-LED nail gel with high bio-renewable content based on hydrophobic organic-inorganic hybrid system

The widespread utilization of nail gels in the cosmetic and beauty industry, with an anticipated market value of US $65.8 Million by 2026, has raised concerns about health risks associated with conventional compositions containing monomeric acrylate reactive diluents. Technical challenges, such as oxygen inhibition leading to incomplete cure and hence tackiness after curing, further complicate their application process. This study investigates UV-LED nail gels utilizing an innovative organic-inorganic hybrid (OIH) binder system, as the utilization of OIH coatings in nail gels has been scarcely, if at all, reported, with a substantial bio-based content (>50%) without the use of any acrylate oligomer/monomers. By eliminating hazardous monomeric acrylates and addressing challenges related to free radical polymerization, the formulated nail gels achieve a 100% solid composition, free from VOC and HAPs, and possess significant bio-renewable content, ensuring safety, sustainability, and compliance with essential requirements.