Why nail polish is bad for you

Next, a finely milled acrylic powder is applied, either by dipping the nail into the powder or brushing it onto the nail. Finally, an activator is applied. This is a liquid containing chemicals that induce polymerization of the resin-containing bonding polish, leaving a hard shell.

The verdict: Unless a salon is transferring the powder into smaller, individual containers for each client, or using a clean brush to apply the powder, we recommend avoiding this type of manicure. As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Good information on something women routinely do without thinking of the possible harmful effects. Brings awareness to the risk of infection or virus and possible damage from toxins and harsh removal processes, especially with gel and powder dip manicures.

Since the NSF, et al have less funds for funding such research and those who manufacture the compounds have zero or negative reason to do so, it may stay that way. All people can do is try to look out for themselves. In addition to everything else they have to do. Are you at risk for heart disease? If you eat a balanced diet, are supplements necessary?

Will new drugs help prevent breast cancer? Can simple exercises like stretching and walking have a noticeable impact on my health? Subscribe now for answers to questions like these! Thanks for visiting. If you use nail polish all the time or if you work in a cosmetic salon, however, you may be at significant risk. Ensure that ventilation is adequate in the salon or room.

Also, take care of your cuticles to minimize contact between polish and skin. Join the ZME newsletter for amazing science news, features, and exclusive scoops. More than 40, subscribers can't be wrong. Also, try to stay informed and avoid products with potentially toxic compounds. A safer alternative would be the usage of LED lights as the production of UV rays by these is very minimal. Try and opt for products which come with a low rating of toxicity within This can be difficult and tricky as most beauty products are not tested or authorized.

Neither do have a toxicity index marked out on them. If you are unable to find any rating, a better option would be to check the label to be sure that the nail paint is free of chemicals such as toluene, formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate and camphor. Organic nail paints are not yet easily available; however, if you refrain from usage of conventional nail paints gradually, the demand for organic and natural nail paints will increase. This will add pressure on companies to shift to natural, healthy nail care product alternatives.

Follow Medindia. By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy , Privacy Policy , and our Terms of Use. Ask your question. Written by Dr. Rachita Narsaria , M. Effects of Nail Polish Ingredients A facial, manicure and pedicure are all that a woman needs to pamper herself from a stressful week of juggling responsibilities at home and work.

In: Klaassen CD, ed. Baden HP The physical properties of nail, J. Mutat Res. Baran R Nail cosmetics - allergies and irritations. Am J Clin Dermatol. Vegan and cruelty-free Beautiful color options I will say that when I put in the effort for a Sophi manicure, it did last a few days longer than the other options! Closest safer option to a conventional gel manicure, in my opinion. Cons: This polish takes some getting used to. Application is easy, but to set the polish, you have to use heat like from a blow-drier at each coat.

If it's not a routine you're accustomed to, this can add some time to your manicure. You need the Sophi polish remover in order to remove this polish or just peel it off — no bueno. Read more on the remover below! It's unique! Favorite Colors: Spring — it doesn't get any prettier than Honeymoon Bliss when it comes to a soft pink Summer — Limoncello is a great go-to for a neon yellow Fall — Mauve Over is a soft, subtle purple Winter — Mediterranean Mist is a beautiful, deep blue.

Pros: free of the top 10 most common toxic polish ingredients, including formaldehyde. The formula is creamy and goes on smooth. Marketed as safe for kids though, that EWG rating is concerning.

Favorite Colors: Spring — Soul Mate is the perfect creamy pink Summer — Tomato is a beautiful combination of red and orange Fall — Velveteen is a soft nude with a hint of pink.

Winter — Souffle is a warm, glittery brown. Pros: Not just free! Free of 12 harmful toxins that other nail polishes use. Cons: It can take a little longer to dry, so give yourself some time between your at-home manicure and your next activity. Winter — Pinot Noir is the perfect dark red. Cons: Not as low odor as some of the other natural polishes Certifications: None that we could find.

Nontoxic Nail Polish Remover Options. Zoya Nail Polish Remover This is a great option for remover because it easily removes polish without that overwhelming obnoxious remover smell.

Pros: Doesn't have that overwhelming obnoxious remover smell Smells like Lavender Has nutrients in it that help condition and protect the nail Cons: More expensive than traditional nail polish removers. Cote Nail Polish Remover The pros of Cote nail polish remover are that it comes in a very handy top-press dispenser, but I've found that it has an offensive odor and evaporates very quickly, causing me to use a lot of product to get my polish removed.

Pros: Comes in a very handy top-press dispenser Cons: I've found that it has an offensive odor Evaporates very quickly, causing me to use a lot of product to get my polish removed. Sophi Nail Polish Remover Though this polish remover only makes sense if you're using it to remove Sophie nail polish, it does work well! Pros: It works like a charm! Aila Nail Polish Remover This one is my personal favorite!

Pros: Doesn't have an offensive odor It is actually oil-like, and removes the polish beautifully Cons: It can leak if you travel with it. Emosa Nail Polish for Kids This polish is water-based and is free of harsh chemicals.

Pros: Free of many harsh chemicals Cons: Water-based top or base coat needed. Karma Kid's Nail Polish This is another great option for kids! Pros: Free of many harsh chemicals Cons: Stronger smell.

What brand nail polish do salons use? What brand of nail polish lasts the longest? What if you just can't give up your go-to nail polish? Here's our take on safe Nail Polish Brands:. Comments Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. Leave this field empty. Cassie says:. Kaylynn Ruffin says:. Kristen says:. Amber Goulden says:. Gladys Ferreira says:. Malena says:. Lauren says:. Many says:. Tiffany M Bastedo says:. Tonya R Kramer says:. Carol lynn says:. Brandi Schilhab says:.

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