Eco-Friendly Nail Polish
We all know that horrible, eye-burning smell that comes with nail polish, and it is one of the clearest clues that something is not right.
Even though you are not putting the polish on your skin and absorbing it, when you put it on and take it off you are breathing in toxic chemicals.
As more and more studies are coming out about the affects of toxic chemicals on nail salon workers, it is becoming increasingly clear that something needs to be done to prevent the harm of others and ourselves for the sake of having a little color and personality to our nails.
Most polishes are full of hazardous chemicals including formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate. These chemicals are being linked to cancer as well as respiratory problems and should clearly be avoided. No one should need to look like this:
Photo courtesy of Louise Daddona
I have spent a few years boycotting nail polish (both because I went through a phase where I decided it was too much work and too girly, but also because I wasn’t willing to expose myself and my family to the toxic fumes). I think I am finally ready to break it.
I have only tried a couple of these polishes or removers, but I have checked to make sure they all agree with the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) ratings and that they are in fact safer than their toxic laden counterparts.
Photo courtesy of Scotch Naturals
Scotch Naturals: I love the colors. The polish remover takes a bit more effort than its toxics-laden counterpart, but it still takes off conventional and eco-friendly polishes. The polish lasts well, and it’s really easy to apply another coat when it starts to peel or grow out.
Image courtesy of honeybee
Honeybee says their polishes can be removed with their remover or with vodka, which is great for people over 21, but not helpful everyone else.
Photo courtesy of Priti NYC
Priti NYC is not on EWG; however, on their webpage it says “Priti Polishes have been completely formulated without any formaldehyde, dibutyl phathalate (DBP), toluene, and camphor.” They have a soy polish remover. They also have the most color options of the companies highlighted here.
Photo courtesy of Acquarella
Aquarella is also on EWG and has their own polish remover.
