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Did you know that nail polish can be one of the most toxic beauty products we put on our bodies? Having two daughters has really opened my eyes! My 3 year old came home from school a few months ago asking to have her nails painted. My first thought was "ugh! all of those toxic chemicals!" But of course I didn't want her to miss out on the fun of nail polish! I did some research and with a few great recommendations from friends I have found my favorite polishes to be Priti NYC and Ella and Mila. I also really love the Priti NYC soy based nail polish remover. It doesn't have the toxic odor that many other nail polish removers contain.
Both Priti NYC and Ella and Mila lasted about a week on fingernails and 3-4 weeks on toes which I found similar to other nail polishes I have used in the past. I used the base and top coat from Priti NYC. There are so many great color choices with both lines. A few of our favorites are Priti NYC Park Princess Dahlia and Ginger Snap Orchid. I also love the Ella and Mila mommy and me sets, they are the perfect combinations. Our favorite set is Rosy Cheeks and My Pool Party. Ella also loves sparkles, her favorite is Party in a Bottle.
Here a list of chemicals you should avoid (from Ellamila.com) in traditional nail polishes and why:
Toluene is a liquid that is used as a solvent and has the familiar smell of paint thinner. You can be exposed to toluene by breathing it in or getting it on your skin, causing skin irritation. Unfortunately, inhaling high levels of toluene is said to be harmful to your nervous system and can cause light-headedness and nausea. Toluene is a toxin that may also cause birth defects and developmental problems in children of pregnant women who have had extended exposure.
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) is a commonly used plasticizer and has been linked to cancer. DBP has also been connected to birth defects in studies involving lab animals. In fact, this toxin was added to the California Proposition 65 list of suspected teratogens, which are agents that cause malformations of an embryo.
Formaldehyde is a commonly used chemical to preserve and embalm dead animals (and humans). Its vapors are also irritating and can trigger asthma. Formaldehyde is also a known human carcinogen, a factor directly involved in causing cancer.
Formaldehyde Resin is a derivative of Formaldehyde, mainly used in the production of coatings and adhesives. It is not as toxic as Formaldehyde but can be an allergen.
Camphor is a poison that can cause seizures and disorientation if used in large doses. This chemical acts as a cover on your nails, depriving them of nutrients and causing yellow staining on your nails.