A huge variety of non-toxic nail polishes are available in the beauty market nowadays — keeping your nails gorgeous and healthier effortlessly than ever. By removing the five hazardous chemicals, known as “5-free nail polishes”, which is safer for the environment.
For nail polishes to be considered as 5-free, it shouldn’t contain the five toxic ingredients which are camphor, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, dibutyl phthalate, and toluene. And because powerful fumes are not a problem anymore, these said formulas are safer options, especially for moms-to-be.
3-Free and 5-Free: What is the Difference?
Many nail polishes being sold in the nail salons such as OPI and Essie are “three free” which means they do not have toxic ingredients in them. But the “five free nail polish” goes further and omit the usage of formaldehyde resin and camphor. These formulas are considered as allergens which affect ladies who can’t polish their nails.
Do the Chemicals in Nail Polishes Have Bad Effects?
This argument is debatable. Some would say that the amount of chemicals in nail polishes is not enough to harm, while some would disagree and say that a number of toxic chemicals is unnecessary as long as it harms the environment as well. Independent testing results show that some labeling on nail polishes does not truthfully list its formulas and actually contain harmful chemicals. The following are the other chemicals that can be found in nail polishes:
- Benzophenone – This chemical is commonly used as a preservative to repel color changes when wide-open to light
- Butyl Acetate – This is an organic solvent that is usually used in making everything combine together. This is a flammable chemical.
- Pigments and Dyes
- Ethyl Acetate – This is an organic solvent
- Isopropyl Alcohol – This is most commonly known rubbing alcohol.
- Mica – This is a ground up organic mineral.
Before buying a nail polish, it pays to know what products are safe to use. Arm yourself with the right information to stay healthy and beautiful.