Ingredient
Ethyl Cyanoacrylate
Ethyl Cyanoacrylate is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding, postpartum, trying to conceive and general use. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body and fetal development.
- 2-Cyanoacrylic Acid Ethyl Ester
- Ethyl 2-Cyanoacrylate
- Superglue
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Not Recommended
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 5 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 4 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Ethyl Cyanoacrylate and pregnancy
Not Recommended
- Absorbed into the body
- Fetal development
Ethyl cyanoacrylate is a powerful adhesive compound used primarily in false eyelash glues and nail extension products. It polymerizes rapidly on contact with moisture, creating strong bonds. While specific pregnancy studies are limited, the concern centers on the chemical's volatility and potential for systemic absorption through inhalation of vapors or accidental contact with mucous membranes. Cyanoacrylate vapors can cause significant respiratory irritation, and the compound breaks down into formaldehyde—a known irritant and potential teratogen at high exposures. Most obstetricians and dermatologists recommend avoiding products with strong chemical adhesives during pregnancy due to limited safety data and the potential for vapor exposure in enclosed spaces. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) does not provide specific guidance on cyanoacrylates, but general recommendations suggest avoiding unnecessary chemical exposures during pregnancy, particularly those with strong vapors or unknown reproductive effects. Many prenatal care providers advise pregnant women to postpone elective cosmetic procedures involving adhesives until after delivery.
Ethyl Cyanoacrylate and breastfeeding
Caution Advised
- Infant exposure
Ethyl cyanoacrylate is used in cosmetic adhesives for false eyelashes and nail extensions. The primary concern during breastfeeding relates to vapor exposure and potential transfer to the infant through close contact. While the compound itself is not likely to transfer into breast milk due to its rapid polymerization, the breakdown products (including formaldehyde) and volatile organic compounds released during application could expose the infant through inhalation during close contact activities like breastfeeding or cuddling. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that minimizing infant exposure to volatile chemicals is prudent, though specific data on cyanoacrylates and breastfeeding are lacking. Most dermatologists consider occasional use of eyelash adhesives acceptable during breastfeeding if applied in well-ventilated areas and allowed to fully cure before close infant contact. However, prolonged or frequent exposure in enclosed spaces should be avoided. Consider timing applications when you'll have several hours before breastfeeding.
Ethyl Cyanoacrylate and postpartum
Caution Advised
- Irritant
Ethyl cyanoacrylate can be used in cosmetic applications postpartum when not breastfeeding, though caution is advised due to its irritant properties and potential for allergic reactions. The main concerns are localized irritation, allergic contact dermatitis, and eye damage if accidentally contacted. Use in well-ventilated areas and follow product instructions carefully. If you have sensitive or compromised skin from hormonal changes postpartum, you may be more susceptible to irritation.
Ethyl Cyanoacrylate and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
Women trying to conceive should consider the same precautions as pregnant women, as you may not know immediately when conception occurs. Ethyl cyanoacrylate's breakdown products include formaldehyde, which has raised concerns about reproductive effects at occupational exposure levels. While cosmetic use involves much lower exposures than occupational settings, many fertility specialists recommend minimizing unnecessary chemical exposures during the preconception period. The volatile nature of cyanoacrylate adhesives means vapor exposure can occur during and shortly after application. Consider switching to safer alternatives when actively trying to conceive, particularly if using these products frequently or in poorly ventilated spaces.
Ethyl Cyanoacrylate and PCOS
Safe to Use
- Irritant
- Common allergen
Ethyl cyanoacrylate is a cosmetic adhesive with no known hormonal effects or interactions with PCOS. The ingredient does not affect androgen levels, insulin sensitivity, or other metabolic markers associated with PCOS. The primary considerations are the same as for the general population: potential for skin and eye irritation, allergic reactions, and respiratory irritation from vapors. Women with PCOS who experience increased facial hair growth may use more cosmetic adhesives, making proper application technique and ventilation particularly important. From a PCOS management perspective, this ingredient poses no specific risks or benefits. Standard safety precautions apply: use in well-ventilated areas, avoid eye contact, and discontinue use if irritation or allergic reactions occur.
Ethyl Cyanoacrylate and general use
Caution Advised
- Irritant
- Common allergen
Ethyl cyanoacrylate is a powerful adhesive used in false eyelash glues and nail products. It works by rapidly polymerizing when exposed to moisture, creating strong bonds within seconds. The primary health concerns involve eye and skin irritation, with ECHA classifying it as causing serious eye damage (H318) and potential skin sensitization. Vapors released during application can irritate the respiratory tract and eyes. Allergic contact dermatitis is relatively common, with studies showing sensitization rates of 3-5% among frequent users. Accidental eye contact can cause corneal damage and should receive immediate medical attention. The FDA allows cyanoacrylates in specific cosmetic applications but does not approve them for direct skin use. The EU Cosmetics Regulation permits use in nail and eyelash products with restrictions. Always use in well-ventilated areas, avoid direct skin contact, and keep away from eyes. If you develop redness, swelling, or persistent irritation, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
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Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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