HEMA

AKA: 2-HYDROXYETHYL METHACRYLATE, 868-77-9, Glycol methacrylate, Hydroxyethyl methacrylate, Ethylene glycol methacrylate, Glycol monomethacrylate, 2-(Methacryloyloxy)ethanol, 2-Hydroxyethylmethacrylate, Mhoromer, Monomer MG-1
Synthetic
Not Clean
OriginSynthesized from hydroxyethyl methacrylate, a monomer derived from ethylene glycol and methacrylic acid. Produced through radical polymerization of the monomer to create a flexible polymer network.
2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate is a hydroxyester compound and a resin monomer used in desensitizing dentin. By applying 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate locally to sensitive teeth, sensitive areas in the teeth get sealed and block the dentinal tubules at the dentin surface from stimuli that cause pain. This prevents excitation of the tooth nerve and relieves pain caused by tooth hypersensitivity.
Solubility Miscible with water and soluble in common org solvents
Formula
C6H10O3
Mol. Weight
130.14
CAS #
868-77-9
Form
Liquid
State
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
Functions
Nail Sculpting
Moisturizing
Antioxidant
Strengthens Barrier
Builds nail structure
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
5
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Eye Irritant in Testing
1 study / 1 irritating / reactions severe (CIR 339)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
4 studies / 3 irritating / 1 mixed / reactions slight to mild (CIR 339)
Mixed Sensitization Results
10 studies / 7 sensitizing / 3 not sensitizing / plus 11 case reports (CIR 339)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.11–79%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2020 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR
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