The Poison in Polish

Have you ever walked into a nail salon and instantly been hit with the overwhelming smell of fumes? For me, there’s nothing that kills the vibe of a relaxing pedicure like smelling harsh chemicals. Well, there’s a reason nail polish and nail polish remover smells so toxic—because it is!

Nail polish is loaded with nasty chemicals that can have a serious impact on your health, because what goes on your body, goes in your body!

Here are just a few:

1. Formaldehyde. Does that name sound familiar? You may have heard of it because formaldehyde is what’s used to preserve dead bodies. Not even kidding. It’s also a known carcinogen, meaning it’s been shown to be linked to cancer. When used in labs, there are strong warnings to avoid contact with skin and inhaling it.

2. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP). This chemical is a known endocrine disruptor that can cause issues with reproduction. Probably one of the reasons it’s banned in Europe...and yet it’s perfectly legal here in the U.S.

3. Toluene. This chemical is also known to cause reproductive harm. It can also damage your body’s central nervous system.

4. Camphor. This chemical is a concern when inhaled through the air. It can cause nausea, dizziness and headaches. Think of your nail tech who breathes this in 40 hours a week!

5. Parabens. Disrupt hormones and can cause reproductive issues, such as ovarian cysts.

Yikes! These are some high costs to pay for some pretty lil’ piggies! But obviously, one can’t go without painted nails. So what can you do?

1. Get your DIY on and do them at home using a “free” nail polish; nail polishes that are free of many harmful chemicals.

   1. Target has a line called “Defy & Inspire” that is 5-free.

   2. Pacifica makes a 7-free collection of nail polish that you can find at Ulta.

   3. Here is a huge list of other 5, 7 and 9-free polishes.

2. Bring your own polish! Try to go to the salon less often and bring your own polish with fewer chemicals.

3. Try out a “fume free” or “eco salon”. These are salons that use nail polishes with less chemicals and do not have the “fumey” smell when you walk in the door. While they tend to be a bit pricier and can be hard to find, I’m hoping these eco salons become more readily available. Here’s one in Sacramento. And I am dyingggg to try out this salon in Folsom, CA. Who wants to come with me?!

So there ya have it! Who knew all of that was hiding in nail polish?! I hope you find a solution that helps you live well! And seriously, if you need a pedicure buddy to try out a fume-free salon, I'm your gal!