No segment of the beauty business contains as many hazardous chemicals as the nail industry. But getting straightforward information about these chemicals isn't always easy. The labels don't tell you much, and it's hard to know what to look for.
One good tip is to look for brands that are "three-free" (free of DBP, toluene and formaldehyde) or "five-free" (free of DBP, toluene, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin and camphor).
Here is a list of common and potentially hazardous ingredients to avoid, and why.
Formaldehyde
A suspected carcinogen and common allergen, formaldehyde can cause eyes to water, nose to burn and skin to develop dermatitis. Look for “formaldehyde-free” on the label.
Acetone
The main ingredient in many nail-polish removers, acetone may cause nausea, dizziness, dermatitis and ear, nose and throat irritation. Look for “acetone-free.”
Toluene
Toluene suspends color in nail polish and helps create a smooth finish along the surface of the nails. According to the California Environmental Protection Agency, excessive exposure at certain levels and under certain circumstances (i.e., poor ventilation) may lead to congenital abnormalities such as mental retardation or “toluene embryopathy,” characterized by reduced fetal weight and other abnormalities.
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)
Linked to infertility and cancer, phthalates (including DBP, DEP, DMP) are stabilizing agents in beauty products, and fragrances or parfums may also contain phthalates. Unfortunately, phthalates in fragrances are considered proprietary and manufacturers don’t have to list them on labels. Look for “DBP- or phthalate-free.”
Camphor
Can irritate the eyes, skin and respiratory system, potentially leading to headaches, dizziness and nausea. Look for “camphor-free.”