Beware of scalds caused by instant glue! It is also contained in fake nail glue
In November 2023, PIO-NET* received a harmful case related to fake nail glue. A consumer carelessly dripped fake nail glue on the hand finger and wiped it with tissue paper. The consumer suffered a second-degree scald burn and needed to attend a hospital for more than a month.
In general, instant glue which is used to make things stick firmly together within a short time mainly consists of a cyanoacrylate substance. When a cyanoacrylate substance reacts with moisture in the air or on the contact surface, polymerizes and hardens, the heat of reaction is generated. In particular, when a cyanoacrylate substance is absorbed in tissue paper or cloth and the surface area is increased, a large heat of reaction may be generated by rapid chemical reaction. Skin contact with such a surface can cause scalds.
Since fiscal 2019, PIO-NET received seven harmful cases (e.g. scalds) caused by instant glue. In May 2024, it was reported that a child in Osaka Prefecture was scalded after fake nail glue dripped on the child's skin.
Therefore, NCAC decided to conduct reproduction tests of instant glue (six brands) and fake nail glue (six brands) to share precautions and issue a consumer alert.
- * PIO-NET is a database that collects information on inquiries concerning consumer affairs by linking NCAC with local consumer affairs centers and the like across Japan via an online network.
Video [YouTube]
Beware of scalds caused by instant glue! If tissue paper or cloth absorbs instant glue, it generates heat
Cases registered with PIO-NET
- When I was applying fake nail glue which I bought at a shop to my thumb nail, the glue dripped on my palm. After wiping it with tissue paper, I was scalded. A dermatologist diagnosed the injury as a second-degree scald burn and told that I need to attend a hospital for more than a month. I read instructions of the fake nail glue and did not find any precaution about the risk of scalds generated when it is used inappropriately.
- Instant glue dripped on a surface and I wiped it with tissue paper nearby. Then it became hot like fire. When I removed the adhered glue off my hand, my finger was hollowed.
Findings
Reproduction test
- When tissue paper or clothing absorbed instant glue, the surface temperature rose nearly to 170 degrees C.
- Instant glue hardens quickly. When instant glue generated heat, it was hard to peel it away from the adhered surface.
Labeling
- Some brands' labels of the tested fake nail glue did not display precautions on heat generation.
- Fake nail glue is not subject to the Household Goods Quality Labeling Act. One of the six tested brands appear to meet all the requirements specified in the Act.
Advice for consumers
- When instant glue is absorbed in a fibrous substance (e.g. tissue paper, clothing), it generates heat within a short time. Skin contact with it can cause scalds, so be careful.
- Remember how to handle when instant glue is put on a surface when using it.
- Read the product label and instruction manual before use. Wear polyethylene gloves when using instant glue.
Request to businesses
- Keep consumers informed about how to remove instant glue accidentally adhered to a surface.
- Concerning instant glue containing a cyanoacrylate substance, disclose ingredients and handling precautions on the product labels regardless of purposes.
Request to the government
- Pay close attention to harmful information on scalds caused by instant glue and fake nail glue. Keep consumers alerted to the risk.
- Fake nail glue also can generate heat. Please disclose ingredients and precautions on the product labels.
