Nail polish is a popular cosmetic product that is used by millions of people around the world. It is typically applied to the fingernails or toenails to enhance their aesthetic appearance.

Although nail polish can make your nails look beautiful, it can also be dangerous due to the presence of harmful chemicals. In this article, we will discuss three such ingredients that are commonly found in nail polish, which are known as the dangerous trio.

Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)

DBP is a plasticizer that is added to nail polish to make it more flexible and less prone to cracking or chipping.

However, studies have shown that DBP can cause a range of health problems, including reproductive and developmental issues as well as liver and kidney damage. It has also been linked to hormonal disruptions, which can lead to infertility, breast cancer, and other serious diseases.

Despite the fact that DBP has been banned in Europe and is considered illegal in several other countries, it is still widely used in many nail polishes in the United States.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate the cosmetic industry as rigorously as many people believe, and many products contain dangerous levels of DBP.

Toluene

Toluene is a highly toxic solvent that is used in nail polish to make it easier to apply and to give it a smooth, glossy finish. It is known to cause a range of health problems, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea.

In cases of prolonged exposure or high levels of inhalation, toluene can cause more serious symptoms like liver damage, kidney damage, and birth defects.

Although toluene has been banned in Europe and many other countries, it is still commonly used in nail polish and other cosmetic products in the United States.

The FDA does require manufacturers to include warnings about the dangers of toluene on product labels, but many people are unaware of the risks or do not take them seriously.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a preservative that is used in nail polish to prevent bacterial growth and to help the polish adhere to the nail. It is also found in many other cosmetic products, including shampoos, lotions, and makeup.

Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, meaning that it has been shown to cause cancer in animals and humans.

Exposure to formaldehyde can also cause a range of other health problems, including skin irritation, respiratory issues, and nerve damage.

Prolonged exposure or long-term use of products containing formaldehyde can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as leukemia and nasal cancer.

Conclusion

The dangerous trio of DBP, toluene, and formaldehyde are found in many nail polishes and other cosmetic products, and they pose a serious health risk to those who use them.

The US cosmetic industry is not regulated as tightly as many people think, and manufacturers are often allowed to use harmful ingredients in their products without facing consequences.

If you use nail polish regularly, it is important to read labels carefully and to choose products that do not contain these dangerous chemicals.

Look for brands that are marketed as “three-free” or “five-free,” which means that they do not contain DBP, toluene, formaldehyde, or other harmful ingredients.