Nail polish is a cosmetic product that is used to color and decorate nails. Here are some details about nail polish products, including their ingredients and materials:
Positive aspects:
- Some nail polish brands, such as OPI, are "9-free," meaning they do not contain certain toxic chemicals like dibutyl phthalate (DBP), formaldehyde, and toluene.
- Some nail polish brands, such as Zoya, Kure Bazaar, Benecos, and Piggy Paint, avoid many common toxins.
- Nail polish can be a fun way to express oneself and add a pop of color to ones appearance.
Negative aspects:
- Many nail polish products contain potentially harmful ingredients, such as phthalates, hydroquinone monomethyl ether (MEHQ/HQ), and methylisothiazolinone (MIT)/methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT) .
- Nail polish fumes can be harmful to inhale, especially for those who work in nail salons and are exposed to these chemicals on a daily basis.
- Nail polish can be difficult to remove and may require harsh chemicals, such as acetone, which can be drying to the nails and skin.
Ingredients or materials:
- Solvents: These are the carriers of the other ingredients and help the nail polish flow smoothly. Common solvents in nail polish include ethyl acetate and butyl acetate.
- Film formers: These ingredients help the nail polish adhere to the nail and form a protective film. Common film formers in nail polish include nitrocellulose and acrylates copolymer.
- Plasticizers: These ingredients help the nail polish remain flexible and prevent it from becoming brittle. Common plasticizers in nail polish include camphor and triphenyl phosphate.
- UV absorbers/stabilizers: These ingredients help prevent the nail polish from fading or changing color when exposed to sunlight. Common UV absorbers/stabilizers in nail polish include benzophenone-1.
- Colorants: These are the pigments or dyes that give nail polish its color. Common colorants in nail polish include organic pigments/dyes derived from sources like coal tar and iron oxide.
It is important to use nail products safely, following labeled directions and paying attention to any warning statements. When choosing a nail polish brand, it is recommended to look for brands that avoid toxic chemicals and list their ingredients.
