FYI: Your Nail Health & Some Warnings
The chemicals in nail polish pose health risks that vary from reproductive problems to cancer, due to ingredients such as toluene, formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate.
This group of carcinogens are often referred to as the "toxic trio". They have been nicknamed this because of the harmful health implications caused, due to the constant usage of these chemicals.
Chemical ingredients disguised in pretty colors in your nail polish can be surprisingly harmful and can lead to some serious health risks. Most nail care products contain toxic and hazardous substances that are silently damaging your health as well as that of individuals who work in nail salons, spas etc...
Here is some valuable information.
Toluene
This ingredient is a solvent added to create a smooth finish across the nail and keeps the paint from separating in the bottle. This chemical is usually used in gasoline that fuels our car. This harms the central nervous system and damages reproductive organs. Other adverse effects include headaches, numbness and eye and throat irritation.
Formaldehyde
A well-known carcinogenic agent used as a nail hardening ingredient. The long lasting nail polishes that you love contain this in abundance. Apart from this, it is used as a disinfectant which prevents bacterial contamination. Formaldehyde is also used as a disinfectant for the tools used during manicure and pedicure.
Dibutyl phthalate
This adds flexibility to nail paints; however, can cause severe damage to the reproductive tract. They prevent the polished nails from cracking or turning brittle. Use of phthalates is banned in certain countries in Europe. The use of this ingredient is becoming less frequent due to its damaging effects.
Try and opt for products that come with a low rating of toxicity, within 0-2 preferably. This can be difficult and tricky, as most beauty products are not tested or authorized. If you cant find any rating online about your brand of polish, another option would be to check the label, to be sure that the nail polish 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 polishes gradually, the demand for organic and natural polishes will increase. This will add pressure on companies to shift to more natural, healthier nail care product alternatives.
In the meantime, my Not So New (but newish to Wannabee), Nail Magic is an amazing formulation I've literally worked on, tweaking and retweaking for over 30 years!!
An exquisite combination of steeped healing oils and herbs, that when massaged into the nail and cuticle, moisturize, help strengthen, may eliminate fungal infection, can help heal skin cracks and although not a cure for underlying disease, can certainly be used as an alternative for promoting growth and a healthier nail appearance.
The information above is not meant to scare, critique your use of polish or judge. I merely want to educate you.
Thanks for reading