Most women in our culture enjoy a routine “mani/pedi” at the nail salon. Nowadays, nail salons are ubiquitous with quite an affordable selection of services, which makes it easy for almost all women, regardless of income level, to enjoy this beauty indulgence.
As summer approaches, I always look forward to routine pedicures to show off my toes in my 
wide variety of sandals.
Before running off to the nail salon, I now have to think twice about the nail polish that will be utilized. Chemicals found in nail polish have been linked to cancer, reproductive problems and several other negative health effects.
The National Healthy Nail Salon Alliance is working “to protect and improve the health and welfare of women working in the nation’s nail salons. To achieve this goal, the Alliance promotes further research on the health risks and impacts to nail salon workers.”
Emerging scientific research indicates that health problems in nail salon workers are linked to exposure from chemicals found in nail products.
The primary culprits are named the Toxic Trio.
Toxic Chemical 1: Toluene
Why is it in the Polish? Responsible for a nail finish that is smooth and prevents the pigment from separating from the liquid.
What is it? Clear liquid that is released into the air and can impact the Central Nervous System.
Potential Health Effects: Irritation of the eyes, throat and lungs and is a possible reproductive toxin. Low levels of exposure can cause confusion, tiredness, weakness, hearing loss, etc.
Toxic Chemical 2: Formaldehyde
Why is it in the Polish? A nail hardening agent.
What is it? Flammable, colorless gas with a pungent odor. It can evaporate into the air of a salon.
Potential Health Effects: Carcinogen (known to cause cancer). Irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin.
Toxic Chemical 3: Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
Why is it in the Polish? Provides flexibility to nail polish and acts as a moisturizing
sheen.
What is it? Fragrance ingredient, solvent & plasticizer (added to the products to increase its fluidity).
Potential Health Effects: Women of childbearing age are very susceptible to the negative health effects of phthalates. In pregnant women, DBP has been linked to reproductive
problems in baby boys. Decreased sperm count in adult men has also been shown.
The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics is working diligently on changing the beauty & cosmetic industry to manufacture non-toxic products. Until then, here’s a list of “Three-Free” nail polish brands. It’s important to Bring Your Own Polish to the Nail Salon if they do not carry these brands:
- Acquarella
- CHI
- NailTini
- Butter London
- Colorpops
- OPI Products
- Chanel
- Lippman Collection
- Orly International
- China Glaze
- L’oreal USA
- Rescue Beauty Lounge
- Revlon
- Seche
- SpaRitual
- Suncoat
- Zoya
- No-Miss
Several Data Elements Adapted from the National Healthy Nail Salon Alliance’s “Phasing out the Toxic Trio Report”
Image courtesy of technizzel.com
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Discussion Take a look at what is being said about this article.
Bruce, on May 19th, 2010 says:
[...] over your curling iron and a bottle of your favourite nail polish. Warm your hands with some scented oil (we like Natures Alchemy Carrier Oil) and get to work on her [...]
Red, on September 3rd, 2010 says:
IMy favorite brand is Sally Hansen… I really like the color shades they release each season, and even though other brands might have similar colors, they never look as good.
This is one indulgence I don’t want to give up.
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