Even though many companies are making non-toxic nail polish, there are still a large portion of manufacturers using chemicals in their products. No matter what, you should always check the ingredients of products that will be in direct contact with your body, whether internal or external. This is a great way to practice good physical health.
One of the issues that occur from continuous fingernail painting is allergies. You may have an allergic reaction somewhere other than your hands or feet that could be a direct result of using unnatural nail polish. Studies show that chemicals in nail polish can be the catalyst to other health problems as well.
Three chemicals that are used in nail products which should be avoided are:
Formaldehyde – which is used more often in nail hardeners opposed to polish – is a carcinogen (possible cancer causing substance) and can cause headaches, watery eyes, and burning throat when inhaling the fumes.
Toluene – often found in paint thinners – is a neurotoxin and can interfere with the functions of neurons. Basically, neurons are cells in your nervous system and brain that aid many different brain functions. Typically, these cells should not be tampered with and toluene is known to cause short term problems such as weakness, nausea, confusion, and fatigue. Long term exposure to toluene can cause a severe nervous disorder.
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) – also found in perfume and hair spray – is a teratogen. The chemical is known to cause pregnancy complications, birth defects, or even loss of pregnancy. DBP is most commonly used as a plasticizer in PVC and then used to manufacture things like hoses, wires, cables, sheeting, tubing etc. Another study has shown that DBP accelerates the puberty stage in girls and has the potential to cause genital abnormalities in newborn males.
Many companies are still using chemicals that cause health issues in beauty products, including nail polish. It is your responsibility to be aware of what you are exposing your body to and not to buy products containing harmful chemicals that put your health in danger. When deciding, if it smells strong, it has chemicals that can be hazardous to your health!
For the gal that wants hot nails but a safer healthier choice, check out the non-toxic nail polishes on the market such as polish from Go Natural, PeaceKeeper and Rescue Beauty.