Image: istockphoto.com/Lise Gagne
Examining our polish
Watchdogs in the cosmetic industry are starting to blow the whistle on toxic chemical exposure in nail salons and with nail care products. When Women's Voices for the Earth published their report Glossed Over three dangerous chemicals were examined: toluene, formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). All three have been linked to cancer.
Smooth finish but reproductive disruptor
Toluene is a clear, colourless liquid found in most nail polish as well as in paints, thinners and inks. It gives nail polish that nice smooth finish and helps everything to dry quicker. But when this volatile chemical is released into the air, it causes symptoms of headache, dizziness, fatigue and irritated eyes, nose and throat. Toluene has also been found to be toxic to the kidneys and liver and possibly a reproductive disruptor. It’s of particular concern to pregnant women since it’s transmitted to the fetus via the placenta and then onto the infant through breast milk. Toluene has recently been banned in Europe.
Preservative with a punch
Formaldehyde is a preservative with a distinct odour that every high school biology student remembers. It acts as a nail hardener and helps stop polish from chipping. But this known human carcinogen is an irritant to the eyes, nose and throat. Breathing in the fumes often leads to coughing and wheezing, while exposure through contact to the skin results in rashes and other skin irritations. Other symptoms can include headaches, fatigue, dizziness and immune dysfunction. This chemical has also been banned in Europe.
Shiny nails with a price
Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), found in plastics, personal care products, paints, pesticides as well as nail polish, is one of the most commonly used chemicals in consumer products. In personal care products it acts as a plasticizer, adding flexibility and sheen. But shiny nails come at a high price since this chemical is a recognized carcinogen linked to birth defects and damage to reproductive organs. There is an increasing number of studies that also suggest it’s toxic to the liver, lungs and kidney. Exposure occurs through inhalation, absorption through skin and ingestion in food.
Most of the major nail polish brands contain all three chemicals. A survey conducted by Environmental Working Group in 2005 found eight brands of nail products contained formaldehyde, five contained formaldehyde resin, 37 contained toluene, and 89 contained dibutyl phthalate.
Of particular concern are nail salon technicians. They were found to have high levels of occupational asthma and more problems with attention and cognitive processing and a reduced sense of smell. The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics convinced two leading manufacturers, OPI and Sally Hansen, to remove these chemicals from their nail products.
While there’s no such thing as a completely green nail polish you can choose one with healthier ingredients. Bring your own polish to your nail salon and encourage them to use the alternatives being offered. Always be sure to read the label so you are sure you’re getting what’s been promised.
Safe alternatives
Shelagh McNally is the editor of Green Living Online. She's getting re-acquainted with her natural toe nail colour after writing this article.
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