KETJENFLEX® for Cosmetics

KETJENFLEX® MH (TSF resin) is specifically highlighted for its ability to improve adhesion of the nail lacquer to the natural nail plate. When incorporated into NC-based formulations, it toughens the coating, ensuring that the polish sticks strongly to the nail surface. This results in longer-lasting manicures with reduced risk of chipping or peeling.

TSF resin is widely used to increase the strength of the primary nail polish polymer, nitrocellulose. Its inclusion leads to a harder, more durable finish compared to NC alone or to alternative resins. This means the nail lacquer is more resistant to everyday wear and tear, maintaining its appearance and integrity for a longer period.

While nitrocellulose provides hardness and shine, it can be brittle on its own. KETJENFLEX MH (TSF resin) balances this by imparting toughness without excessive brittleness, resulting in a coating that is both strong and flexible. This balance helps prevent cracking and breakage of the nail lacquer film.

The article notes that hypoallergenic polishes, which use alternative polymer resins, are typically 10–20% less durable than those containing TSF resin. Other alternatives, such as toluene sulfonamide epoxy resin, may offer slightly better properties than polyesters but suffer from poor shelf life and still do not match the strength and durability of TSF resin.

TSF resin, when used alongside nitrocellulose, contributes to a hard, shiny finish that is visually appealing. This is important for consumer satisfaction, as gloss and clarity are key attributes of high-quality nail lacquers.

The document clarifies that the negligible amount of formaldehyde present in TSF resin is extremely safe for users, except in rare cases of pre-existing formaldehyde allergy. Most nail enamels contain less than 0.0015% formaldehyde, far below levels that could cause adverse effects, making KETJENFLEX MH a safe choice for most consumers.