"Non-Toxic" Nail Polish

In a world where beauty products are marketed as “safe” or “non-toxic,” it’s easy to assume these claims are trustworthy. Nail polish is no exception, with brands promoting themselves as “16-free” or “17-free.” But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that these labels often obscure the truth: many products still contain harmful chemicals.

What Does “16-Free” Actually Mean?

When nail polish is labeled as “16-free,” the product excludes 16 specific harmful ingredients, such as formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate. While this might seem like progress, it’s far from the whole story. Many of these products still contain other carcinogenic or hormone-disrupting chemicals, like TPHP (triphenyl phosphate).

The Dangers of TPHP in Nail Polish

A study found that using nail polish caused a significant spike in TPHP levels in the body, which is alarming given its health implications:^[1]

• Hormone Disruption: TPHP mimics natural hormones, interfering with the body’s endocrine system.^[2]
• Obesity Risk: Animal research has linked TPHP exposure to increased fat accumulation.^[3]
• Long-Term Health Risks: Chronic exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals may contribute to metabolic and reproductive issues.^[4]

The study also revealed that some brands claiming TPHP-free contained even higher levels of this chemical than other polishes.^[5]

Why Transparency in Ingredients Matters

The issue with nail polish goes beyond individual chemicals. It’s about the beauty industry's lack of transparency. Brands often use vague labels like “non-toxic” to attract buyers while sidestepping full disclosure about their ingredients. For consumers, making informed choices requires going beyond the label and understanding what’s in the product.

A Safer Alternative: Natural Buff and Wax Kits

Natural buff and wax kits are an excellent solution for those looking to maintain beautiful nails without toxic chemicals. These kits enhance the nails’ natural shine and health without exposing you to harmful substances. Benefits include:

• No synthetic chemicals or preservatives. 
• Support for stronger, healthier nails. 
• A safe option for daily use by adults and children alike. 

Making Safer Choices for Long-Term Health

Reducing exposure to toxic chemicals is critical for overall health, and nail polish is just one example of how hidden dangers can lurk in everyday products. By choosing safer alternatives and advocating for transparency in ingredient labeling, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from unnecessary risks.

1. Mendelsohn, Emma, et al. “Nail Polish as a Source of Exposure to Triphenyl Phosphate.” Environment International, vol. 86, Oct. 2015, p. 45. pmc.
2. Schug, Thaddeus T., et al. “Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and Disease Susceptibility.” The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, vol. 127, no. 3–5, Nov. 2011, pp. 204–15.
3. Heindel, Jerrold J., et al. “Obesity II: Establishing Causal Links between Chemical Exposures and Obesity.” Biochemical Pharmacology, vol. 199, May 2022, p. 115015.
4. Patisaul, Heather B., and Heather B. Adewale. “Long-Term Effects of Environmental Endocrine Disruptors on Reproductive Physiology and Behavior.” Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, vol. 3, June 2009, p. 10.
5. Young, Anna S., et al. “Phthalate and Organophosphate Plasticizers in Nail Polish: Evaluation of Labels and Ingredients.” Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 52, no. 21, Nov. 2018, pp. 12841–50.