What's really in the colorful polish we put on our nails religiously? Does it matter? 

Truthfully, what we put on our bodies always matters. It can lead to a variety of health issues in the future (even if they don't seem correlated). Whenever something is applied to our skin or nails, it can seep in and affect our blood stream- especially when considering toxic chemicals!

There are some chemicals we know are especially harmful in nail polish. The top ranking ones today are formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, camphor, and formaldehyde resin. I have listed some of the health effects correlated with these substances in the infographics below.

Formaldehyde is notoriously used in nail polish, and has been connected with several health issues. 


 Dibutyl Phthalate, otherwise known as DBP, has been linked with issues involving the endocrine system. This is used in many brands today, and is known to reduce the chipping that is known to happen after a while of wearing a polish.

 The effects of camphor are extremely common; many people experience headaches and dizziness when being around open nail polish. In fact, it's surprising when a nail salon employee doesn't experience these symptoms.
 Formaldehyde resin is something that has been researched a little less, but is definitely not something you want to be exposing yourself to.

Toluene is actually known as a paint thinner and is used to create a nice looking finish on nails; however, this aesthetic comes at a high price- you put yourself at risk for a harder time breathing and hearing, having issues with childbirth, and even suffering neurological damage. 

I never thought I would be writing this when I was younger. If I had known what I do now though I wouldn't have disagreed. That's the thing, though. This isn't really common knowledge. Sure, we all understand that nail polish isn't the healthiest thing for us; what about all the ones that claim to strengthen and nourish nails? These often have the same exact ingredients and are just as bad (if not worse) for us. I write this because I hope to educate and enlighten you to what you deserve to know. When people begin to understand what they are putting on themselves they often decide to make some changes. After all, every manicure makes a difference. 

I actually have decided to try out a non toxic nail polish brand; I typically don't wear anything (as I discussed in this Youtube video) but decided to invest in something for when I want to. I tried out a pinkish color from Sophi, and so far I have really enjoyed it. Sophi is related to the brand Piggy Paint, but has more subdued and natural colors (not that Piggy Paint is bad, I think they're great too, especially for kids). I think that, if you're particularly picky, it can't hurt to experiment a little and find something natural you like. An investment in your health is never not worth it.

What do you think about the ingredients in nail polish today? Do you paint your nails regularly? If so, have you ever tried out a non-toxic brand? Comment below, and let me know what you thought of the post! 

Love and light,