Nail polish
looks lovely in the bottle and even prettier when applied to freshly manicured nails, but the health implications of a bottle of nail polish may not be so attractive. The potent smell that almost knocks you over when you open a bottle is due to array of potentially toxic chemicals found in some bottles of nail color. Exactly what are the dangers of nail polish and should you expose yourself to this product?

The Dangers of Nail Polish: The Chemicals

Although most nail polishes contain a variety of chemicals, the one that's received the most scrutiny is one called dibutyl phthalate or DBP. DBP is a member of a group of substances known as phthalates, chemicals which are added to plastics to soften and make them more malleable. Phthalates are of concern in humans because they have the potential to disrupt hormone levels in the human body and potentially cause birth defects in children and cancer in humans. They've also been demonstrated to cause liver toxicity in rats and are thought to play a role in childhood asthma. Phthalates are of such concern that they've been banned from use in cosmetics in Europe. Unfortunately, our FDA hasn't been so quick to respond and continues to allow this chemical to be added to nail polish as well as other cosmetics.

The Dangers of Nail Polish: Other Chemicals of Concern

DBP isn't the only questionable chemical in nail polish. Some nail polishes have toluene and formaldehyde added, both of which are thought to cause organ damage and, potentially, cancer. Fortunately, some companies that produce cosmetics have responded to the potential dangers of nail polish by removing all three of these chemicals from their products. This includes such major cosmetic companies as Avon, Maybelline, and Elizabeth Arden. You can also buy “natural” nail polishes made of plant extracts at some health food stores and natural food markets.

The Dangers of Nail Polish: How to Protect Yourself

If you plan on painting your nails, keep the dangers of nail polish in mind, particularly if you're pregnant. Because of the association of DBP with birth defects, it would be wise to avoid using any nail polish that's not designated to be free of DBP, toluene, and formaldehyde and to avoid nail salons where these products might be used. To verify this, it would be worthwhile to call the company before purchasing or buy natural nail polishes from your local natural food market. All nail care products should be used in a room with good ventilation.

Don't take chances with your health. Keep the dangers of nail polish in mind when you shop for or use nail care products. Select your polishes wisely and use them safely. Beautiful nails aren't worth the potential health risks.