Welcome Back – What’s Really Inside Your Nail Polish?
In the previous part, we explored nail anatomy and why your nails absorb more than you think. Now let’s take a closer look at the first five potentially harmful ingredients we’ve eliminated from our 10-free nail polish — and why they don’t belong in your self-care routine.
1. Toluene
Toluene is a colorless liquid with a strong, sweet scent. It’s used in nail polish to create a smooth application and even finish. However, its fumes can be toxic.
Exposure to high levels of toluene is linked to:
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Central nervous system effects
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Nausea, dizziness, and headaches
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Irritation or burns to skin and respiratory tract
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Memory issues and cognitive effects
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Potential developmental toxicity during pregnancy
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Reproductive and immune system effects in animal studies
In the EU, toluene is permitted in nail products up to 25% and only in products for adults.
Look for “TOLUENE” on product labels.
2. Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a colorless, volatile gas with a strong smell. It’s used to harden polish and act as a preservative. While the human body can naturally produce trace amounts, exposure through cosmetics is a different story.
Formaldehyde is:
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Toxic by inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion
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Classified as a carcinogen and mutagen, meaning it can damage DNA
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Harmful to mucous membranes, eyes, respiratory tract, and kidneys
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Associated with asthma development in children and reproductive effects
Banned as an ingredient in EU cosmetics. However, preservatives that may release formaldehyde are still allowed — as long as the final product contains no more than 0.05% and is labeled “contains formaldehyde.”
Look for “FORMALDEHYDE” on product labels.
3. Formaldehyde Resin (Tosylamide/Formaldehyde Resin)
This resin, derived from formaldehyde, helps nail polish stick better to the nail. While it improves durability, it can trigger reactions in some users.
Studies suggest it may cause:
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Allergic reactions and skin irritation
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Potential pigment loss or discoloration in sensitive skin
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Concerns about slow release of formaldehyde over time
🧴 Look for “TOSYLAMIDE/FORMALDEHYDE RESIN” on product labels.
4. Camphor
Camphor is often used to give polish a glossy finish and improve flexibility. While natural camphor comes from trees, the synthetic version (from turpentine oil) is more common in cosmetics.
Risks of camphor exposure include:
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Toxicity if absorbed in high amounts, especially through damaged skin
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Possible allergic reactions and skin irritation
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Headaches, dizziness, and nausea from prolonged inhalation
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Concerns about organ effects in some studies
Look for “CAMPHOR” on product labels.
5. Xylene
Xylene is a solvent used to keep polish from thickening. While effective, it’s known to be an irritant — and a potential health concern with frequent exposure.
Effects may include:
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Irritation of eyes, skin, and respiratory system
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Headaches and dizziness from fumes
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Possible long-term effects on kidneys or lungs
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Xylene is not proven to be carcinogenic in humans, but caution is advised with prolonged use
Look for names like XYLENE, DIMETHYLBENZENE, META-XYLENE, or BENZENE, DIMETHYL- on labels.
Final Thought
When you know what your nails can absorb, it’s hard to ignore what’s in your polish.
We created our 10-free formula to take the guesswork out — and keep your nails looking beautiful without unnecessary exposure to questionable chemicals.
