Is Your Nail Polish Safe?

According to the Food and Drug Administration many nail products contain potentially harmful ingredients, but are allowed on the market because they are safe when used as directed. For example, some nail ingredients are harmful only when ingested, which is not their intended use.

Nail polish makers have been under pressure to reduce or eliminate potentially toxic ingredients, including phthalates, toluene, and formaldehyde, from their nail polish. In September 2006, several makers agreed to phase out dibutyl phthalate, which has been linked to health problems in lab animals and humans. Though some makers recently agreed to eliminate formaldehyde from their products, others still use the chemical.

Our advice? If you have to choose a nail polish, try choosing a variety that contains the least amount of harmful toxins as possible. Always apply polish in a well ventilated area. With so many formaldehyde-free nail polishes and products on the market, err on the side of caution and look for alternative nail strengtheners.