Formaldehyde
Classified as a known carcinogen, formaldehyde is often used as a preservative, nail hardener and strengthener in conventional polishes.
Toluene
Included in some polishes as a solvent to smooth application, is has been linked to impaired human reproduction and development, impaired breathing, being harmful to the nervous system and nausea.
Dibutyl Phthalate (dbt)
Shown to affect the reproductive system and linked to cancer, DBP has been used as plasticizer and solvent to increase wear.
Formaldehyde resin
A derivative of formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin is often used as a hardener and in large doses can be a skin allergen.
Camphor
Added to some polishes for high-shine, camphor can cause allergic reactions in large doses, cause irritation, dizziness, nausea, and headaches.
Triphenyl phosphate (tphp)
Also known as TPP, research suggests it causes changes in hormone regulation, metabolism, and reproductive systems. It has been used in polish as a plasticizer which makes the polish flexible yet durable.
Xylene
Used by some brands to help polish from getting gloppy, xylene is also a known allergen and a possible carcinogen.
Ethyl tosylamide/epoxy resin
This ingredient has antibiotic properties which raises concern over antibiotic resistance. It can be used as a plasticizer to help polishes dry faster.
Parabens
Used as preservatives, parabens get a bad rep for having estrogen-mimicking effects which may trigger hormonal problems.
Gluten
Hydrolyzed wheat protein, while considered nontoxic by some, does pose potentially serious issues for those who are gluten intolerant. Used to help moisturize soft, brittle nails, it presents an allergy concern.
Benzophenone-1
Widely used in nail polish for its UV blocking capabilities, benzophenone helps to limit polish discoloration. While it is considered relatively harmless in small quantities, research has shown that it is linked to certain cancers, endocrine disruption, and organ system toxicity.
Cleaner Safer Beauty
Choose Cleaner
Products are made without harmful ingredients like silicone, sulfates, PEGs and parabens.
Trust Safer
Luxe, high-performing products shouldn’t mean you need to sacrifice your health.
Mindful Beauty Redefined
A tree is planted for every order placed.