The aim of this focus action was to check the content of carcinogenic nitrosamines in nail polishes. 77 samples from all over Austria were examined. 19 samples were rejected:

• in three samples the content of nitrosamines was so high that the intended usability was not guaranteed
• in seven other samples, the levels of nitrosamines were objected to on the condition that the responsible person could not prove in the product documentation that these levels were technically unavoidable
• in ten samples the labeling was objectionable
• the notification was missing for three samples

Nitrosamines are among the carcinogenic substances and as such are prohibited in cosmetic products. For genotoxic (mutagenic) carcinogens, no threshold value for the carcinogenic and genotoxic effects can be specified as a rule. The unintentional presence of banned substances is tolerated if the product is safe and the levels are technically unavoidable (Article 17 of Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009). It can be assumed that these nitrosamines are only formed in the nail varnish in the course of manufacturing, with nitrocellulose, which is frequently used in nail varnishes, being suspected as the source of the nitrosating agent. The amine source has not yet been clearly identified, but it can be assumed that the substances stearalkonium hectorite and stearalkonium bentonite contribute to nitrosamine formation. Technically avoidable levels of trace amounts of banned substances - such as the nitrosamines investigated - are therefore unacceptable. The responsible person must prove in the safety report that the traces of prohibited substances are technically unavoidable and safe to use.