It’s truly shocking to think about the mix of chemicals found in some commercial nail products. A partial list would include toluene, a petroleum-based solvent that may partly account for the strong smell that hits you in the face when you open a bottle of nail polish.
Some brands of polish may contain formaldehyde. This known carcinogen is used as an embalming agent.
Your favorite polish may also contain phthalates, a class of chemicals with the potential to disrupt our hormones. Early research also shows these substances may be linked to breast cancer.
Some companies are taking steps to phase these chemicals out of their products. But there’s still concern over some of the other ingredients that may be used instead.
So, if you do choose to paint your nails, you’ll want to go for maximum safety.
Where to Buy Safe Nail Polish
One of the leaders in the non-toxic nail industry is a company known as Keeki Pure & Simple. This product is non toxic. You won’t find any parabens, phthalates or formaldehyde in this formula. It’s gluten free as well. This can be ordered in several colors, including the cotton candy shown here.
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Where to Buy Non Toxic Nail Polish Remover
Of course, after applying a polish, you need a safe means of taking it off. The good news is that there’s also a non-toxic nail polish remover made by Karma Naturals, which you can see above.
This product is made by Karma Organic Spa, which produces its own line of non-toxic nail polish in many colors, as well as clear base or top coat.
Conventional nail polish removers are made with acetone or a non-acetone type of solvent. These are strong, harsh chemicals, as you can tell from the smell, when you open a bottle and take a whiff of this stuff. Karma Naturals Nail Polish Remover is made from soybean oil and lavender.
Karma Naturals Nail Polish Remover
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Excellent article on nail polish!
Larraine, thank you so much for reading.
Do you know of a non-toxic nail strengthener? The one I use right now, because my nails split easily, is good. But from the smell I can tell it’s not the best in terms of toxicity.
Susan, I don’t know of any. But if I come across something I’ll let you know. Have you thought about this from a nutritional angle? Thanks for reading.
I am addicted to nail polish. I have more then I will ever wear and still buy more.
Hi Rebecca, watch out for that formaldehyde. 🙂 Thanks so much for reading.