Let's be real, who doesn't love having pretty nails? I feel like there's just something about them that makes you feel that extra bit confident & empowered. And while I loooooooove the look of a fresh mani & polish combo, I am not in love with the toxic ingredients often lurking in the products. But by now you surely know, if there is one things I get pumped on sharing for you is healthier alternatives, so we can enjoy the things we love (like pretty nails), with less toxins.
Let's look at some of the AVOID ingredients commonly found in nail care products:
1. Toluene
Toluene is a solvent that helps nail polish go on smoothly and adhere evenly. Unfortunately, it can cause dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Prolonged exposure has been linked to neurological damage and developmental issues in unborn children.
2. Formaldehyde
Used as a hardening agent, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. It can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and eye irritation. Chronic exposure increases the risk of developing cancer, making this ingredient particularly concerning.
3. Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)
DBP is used to prevent nail polish from becoming brittle. It is an endocrine disruptor, meaning it can interfere with hormone function. This can lead to reproductive issues and has been linked to developmental problems in children.
4. Camphor
Camphor gives nail polish its glossy finish, but it can cause severe reactions if ingested or inhaled in large quantities. Symptoms include nausea, dizziness, and headaches. In high doses, camphor can lead to seizures and liver damage.
5. Triphenyl Phosphate (TPHP)
TPHP is a plasticizer that makes nail polish more flexible and durable. However, it is also an endocrine disruptor and has been associated with reproductive and developmental issues. Studies suggest that TPHP can be absorbed into the body through the nails.
6. Formaldehyde Resin
Though less toxic than pure formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin can still cause allergic reactions and skin irritation. It is used to add strength and durability to the polish, but it comes with its own set of risks.
7. Xylene
Xylene is a solvent that helps maintain a smooth application. It can cause dizziness, headaches, and respiratory issues. Long-term exposure can lead to more severe health effects, including liver and kidney damage.
8. Ethyl Tosylamide
Banned in Europe due to its antibiotic properties, ethyl tosylamide can promote antibiotic resistance. It is used to enhance the flexibility and adhesion of nail polish, but its potential health impacts make it a concerning ingredient.
9. Parabens
Parabens are preservatives that extend the shelf life of nail polish. They can disrupt hormone function and have been linked to reproductive harm and increased risk of breast cancer.
10. Colophonium (Rosin)
Used to help nail polish stick to the nail bed, colophonium can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. It is a natural resin, but its potential to cause dermatitis makes it a risky component.
Choosing Safer Alternatives
Awareness of these toxic ingredients is the first step toward safer beauty practices. When shopping for nail polish, look for products labeled “5-free,” “10-free,” or "12-free" which let you know that they are free from some or all of these harmful chemicals mentioned above.
Some of my favourite nail polish brands:
Or skip the polish all together and give your natural nails some love & shine with Buff Wand.
Nail Polish Removers:
There are many healthier options for nail polish removers on the market today that avoid nasty ingredients such as acetone & ethyl acetate (try some of the brands I've mentioned above). Alternatively you can make a DIY nail polish remover at home with a few simple ingredients, like I did recently when I didn't have time to go buy a low tox one!
DIY Nail Polish Remover Recipe
100ml dropper bottle
3 TBSP apple cider vinegar
3 TBSP rubbing alcohol
5 drops lemon essential oil
5 drops grapefruit or wild orange essential oil
How to use:
OPTIONAL: You can soak your nails in warm water for 5 minutes first, but I didn't.
Put a couple drops of your mix on a cotton ball or cotton pad and hold it on the nail polish to soak it, then rub to remove the polish.
NOTES:
citrus essential oils are photosensitive so be mindful of putting them on your skin before going into direct sunlight
the rubbing alcohol is a bit drying so I always follow this with a cuticle & hand oil
HAND, NAIL & CUTICLE OIL RECIPE
50ml dropper bottle
5-10 drops of essential oil (I like Frankincense, Myrrh & Lavender)
Top with jojoba or fractionate coconut oil
My favourite essential oils for nail health:
Lavender Oil:
Antifungal: Prevents and treats nail fungal infections.
Soothing: Calms irritated skin around the nails and promotes relaxation.
Healing: Encourages faster healing of damaged nails and cuticles.
Frankincense Oil:
Healing: Promotes the healing of damaged nails and cuticles.
Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and soothes irritated skin.
Moisturizing: Helps keep nails and cuticles hydrated and healthy.
Myrrh Oil
Antifungal and Antibacterial: Protects nails from infections.
Moisturizing: Deeply hydrates dry and brittle nails.
Strengthening: Strengthens nails and prevents breakage.
Tea Tree Oil:
Antifungal and Antibacterial: Helps combat nail fungus and bacterial infections.
Healing: Promotes healing of nail infections and reduces inflammation.
Strengthening: Helps strengthen brittle and weak nails.
Rosemary Oil:
Antifungal and Antibacterial: Helps fight nail infections.
Stimulating: Promotes healthy nail growth by stimulating blood circulation.
Strengthening: Strengthens weak and brittle nails.
I hope you love these recipes - if you give them a try make sure you share & tag me on Instagram @itscourtneydow
Need essential oils? I'm your girl.
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