The beauty industry has been experiencing a surge in popularity in recent years, with more and more products being created to cater to the growing demand for cosmetics.

In particular, nail polish has become a staple in the beauty industry, with different colors and styles available to consumers.

As consumers become more aware of the potential harm of certain chemicals in nail polish, many have turned to non-toxic nail polishes as an alternative.

However, even non-toxic nail polishes may still contain harmful ingredients that can have adverse effects on health. In this article, we will explore why non-toxic may still mean harmful in nail polishes.

What are non-toxic nail polishes?

Non-toxic nail polishes are those that do not contain certain chemicals that have been linked to health concerns. These chemicals include formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates.

Formaldehyde is known to be a carcinogenic chemical, while toluene can cause headaches, dizziness, and itchy eyes. Phthalates, on the other hand, can lead to hormonal changes and reproductive issues.

Non-toxic nail polishes are typically labeled as “3-free,” “5-free,” or “7-free,” depending on the number of chemicals they do not contain.

3-free nail polishes do not include formaldehyde, toluene, or dibutyl phthalate (DBP). 5-free nail polishes lack those three chemicals plus formaldehyde resin and camphor. Meanwhile, 7-free nail polishes do not contain any of the five chemicals mentioned earlier plus triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) and xylene.

The problem with “non-toxic” label

While non-toxic nail polishes may be marketed as a safer option, it does not necessarily mean that they are entirely safe to use.

The term “non-toxic” is not regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means that any manufacturer can use it without oversight.

Additionally, chemicals that are not included in the non-toxic label may still be present in the products.

For example, a nail polish labeled as 5-free may not contain formaldehyde, toluene, or DBP, but it may still include other chemicals that can have harmful effects on health such as ethyl tosylamide.

Other harmful ingredients

There are other harmful ingredients that can be present in nail polishes even when they are labeled as non-toxic. One of these is acetone.

While acetone is not included in the list of toxic chemicals that non-toxic nail polishes do not contain, it is an ingredient that can be harmful to health.

Acetone is a volatile organic compound that can contribute to air pollution. It can also cause skin irritation and dryness. Frequent exposure to acetone can lead to long-term health problems, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea.

Methyl methacrylate (MMA) is another harmful ingredient that can be present in nail polishes. While it is not legally allowed to be used in nail polishes in the United States, some manufacturers may still use it.

MMA can cause severe allergic reactions, skin irritation, and damage to the nail bed.

The importance of reading labels

To avoid using nail polishes that contain harmful ingredients, it is essential to read labels carefully. This can be challenging since not all nail polishes list their ingredients, particularly those that are not manufactured in the United States.

However, consumers can check the manufacturer’s website or contact them directly to obtain more information about their product.

It is also important to be aware of potentially harmful ingredients and recognize them when reading labels. Some common ingredients to watch out for include acetone, MMA, and ethyl tosylamide.

Natural and organic options

In recent years, natural and organic nail polishes have become increasingly popular among consumers who are looking for safer options.

These nail polishes are typically made from ingredients that are derived from natural sources and do not contain harmful chemicals.

Natural nail polishes are non-toxic but not necessarily organic. Organic nail polishes are those that are made from ingredients that are certified organic. These nail polishes are free from synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and other harmful ingredients.

They are not only safer for the user but also more environmentally friendly.

Conclusion

While non-toxic nail polishes may seem like a safe alternative to traditional nail polishes, they may still contain harmful ingredients that can be detrimental to health.

It is essential to read labels carefully and be aware of the potential risks of certain ingredients. Choosing safer options such as natural and organic nail polishes can provide a safer and healthier alternative for consumers.