Non Toxic Nails + DIY Polish Remover
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Like most ladies, I love a good manicure! But have you ever wondered about what's actually in that polish? I'm not much of a girlie-girl- I rarely have color on my nails, usually just a clear coat. But, when I do feel like gettin' fancy, I want my polish to be safe. My baby girl loves to do her nails too, and she gives her dad a fab pedicure on the regular. So...it's important to know exactly what is being absorbed into our blood streams.
Here are some ingredients in nail polish to look out for.
Formaldehyde
Can cause irritation for the eyes and nasal passages as well as increased risk of asthma and allergies. It is also considered a human carcinogen by The National Cancer Institute . It could also be listed as Formalin on the label.
Toluene
Solvent also found in gasoline. “Chronic inhalation exposure of humans to toluene also causes irritation of the upper respiratory tract and eyes, sore throat, dizziness, and headache.” U.S Environmental Protection Agency, July 2012. It could also be listed on the label as “toluol” or “phenylmethane.”
Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
“The State of California and other authoritative bodies have classified dibutyl phthalate (DBP) as a reproductive and developmental toxin, and the European Union banned the use of this ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products.” Environmental Working Group
Luckily, I have found several brands that offer non-toxic nail polish. I have tried a couple of these myself, and they definenlty have the staying power of typical polish. Plus, the colors and collections are endless!
BUTTER
They offer beautiful shades in dozens of colors, and of course, lot's of cool collections. The winter collection is a must have, and the Pantone color of the year collection is awesome, they even do lips and shadows! I have my eye on their Purecure System- LED light is less harmful than UV, and the polishes are free from harmful ingredients too! Who doesn't love a gel manicure?!
Purecure Manicure System
By Butter London
ZOYA
This company has some seriously beautiful shades. They have a 10 Free Formula that they follow, promising that all their products toxic free. The Wedding Bliss collection is amazing, and the Wanderlust collection is made up of bright colors that pop! I use their Armor Top Coat, and they have lot's of other nail care treatments, as well. They offer over 300 shades, and was awarded- longest wearing natural polish, by an independent panel in Women's Health Magazine. Plus, most polishes run $10...heck yes!
ZOYA
NARS
Yes, NARS! I was pretty excited to see this brand is "3 Free", not completely vegan, but definently better than your average polish. If you know NARS, you know they are famous for their bold, timeless shades, and they always deliver. Polish starts at $20, and totally worth it!
NARS "3 Free" Polish
Arabesque
DIY NAIL POLISH REMOVER TIPS
CITRUS VINEGAR
The acid from vinegar will help break down nail polish, after rubbing with a cotton ball it will be possible to wipe off the polish. Just pour some vinegar into a small bowl, add juice from your citrus fruit (lemon, lime, orange or grapefruit) and mix together. Use a cotton ball to apply. If there is anything left that is difficult to remove fully, then use your emery board to file it all off. Heads up- this is a little smelly!
RUBBING ALCOHOL
This is not my go-to, because it is flammable, and can be toxic if inhaled But, it is a natural substance, just be sure to use it in a ventilated area.
Do you have a favorite non-toxic polish? What is your go-to shade? Please share in the comments!
xoxo Christina
