10 Healthy, Non Toxic Nail Polish Brands To Try
In the world of beauty, toxins has lost most of its meaning. Same with non-toxic, because the terms don’t have concrete, universal definitions. With non-toxic nail polish, however, ingredients are becoming slightly more transparent, as more nail brands have agreed upon a list of potentially harmful chemicals to avoid.
In the ever-evolving landscape of beauty, the terms “toxins” and “non-toxic” have gained significance, especially with the rise of the clean beauty movement. Non-toxic nail polishes have become a focal point in this movement, as brands increasingly prioritize transparency in their ingredient lists. As we become more conscious of what we put in and on our bodies, the demand for healthier alternatives, such as non-toxic nail polishes, continues to grow.
Non Toxic Nail Polish
Non-toxic nail polish refers to a formulation that avoids certain potentially harmful chemicals. A pivotal moment in this shift occurred in 2015 when a study revealed that chemicals in traditional nail polish could be absorbed through nails, impacting our overall health. This led to the emergence of terms like “three-free,” indicating the absence of formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate—the notorious “toxic trio.”
However, the clean beauty movement has pushed beyond the basics, prompting brands to eliminate additional harmful substances like formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, and TPHP. This commitment to cleaner formulations is often reflected in labels such as 5-, 7-, 9-, or 10-free.
One of the toxic ingredients commonly excluded from non-toxic nail polish formulations is dibutyl phthalate (DBP). This phthalate has been associated with various health concerns, including disruptions in the nervous system that can affect hormonal balance.
Thank the clean beauty movement, which has made shoppers more aware than ever about what we’re putting in—and on—our bodies. But what exactly does non-toxic or healthy nail polish mean? Let’s break it down.
Nail Polish FAQs
In the ever-evolving landscape of beauty, the terms “toxins” and “non-toxic” have gained significance, especially with the rise of the clean beauty movement. Non-toxic nail polishes have become a focal point in this movement, as brands increasingly prioritize transparency in their ingredient lists. As we become more conscious of what we put in and on our bodies, the demand for healthier alternatives, such as non-toxic nail polishes, continues to grow.
Non-Toxic Nail Polish: A Brief Overview
Non-toxic nail polish refers to a formulation that avoids certain potentially harmful chemicals. A pivotal moment in this shift occurred in 2015 when a study revealed that chemicals in traditional nail polish could be absorbed through nails, impacting our overall health. This led to the emergence of terms like “three-free,” indicating the absence of formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate—the notorious “toxic trio.”
However, the clean beauty movement has pushed beyond the basics, prompting brands to eliminate additional harmful substances like formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, and TPHP. This commitment to cleaner formulations is often reflected in labels such as 5-, 7-, 9-, or 10-free.
Why Choose Non-Toxic Nail Polish?
The decision to opt for non-toxic nail polish goes beyond personal health benefits; it extends to environmental considerations. These polishes often feature natural, plant-based ingredients that are biodegradable and free of harmful toxins, aligning with a more sustainable lifestyle.
The clean beauty movement’s influence on non-toxic nail polish goes beyond eliminating harmful chemicals. Brands are now incorporating natural, plant-based ingredients into their formulations, with natural nail polish offering benefits not only for personal health but also contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly beauty industry.
10 Healthy, Non-Toxic Nail Polish Brands To Try
Choosing natural nail polishes is a commendable step toward prioritizing personal health and environmental sustainability. Traditional nail polishes often contain harmful chemicals linked to allergies, hormonal imbalances, and even cancer. By opting for non-toxic alternatives, you can still enjoy beautifully painted nails without exposing yourself to potential health risks.
These first four are the non-toxic nail polish brands that I personally own, and love!
Sally Hansen Good. Kind. Pure. in Laven-Dear
- Price: Under $7 on Amazon
- Sally Hansen’s vegan polish line offers 30 shades with a 16-free formula. The plant-based composition extends to the brush bristles, making it an affordable and accessible option.
Butter London Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer
- Price: $12 at Walmart
- This eight-free polish provides rich color in two coats, dries quickly, and boasts a beautiful, glassy shine. The formula is chip-resistant and offers a professional finish.
The polish is eight-free, goes on rich in two coats, and dries down pretty quickly. The color has a beautiful, glassy shine. $12 AT WALMART
Smith & Cult Nail Lacquer
If you’re looking for an eight-free polish that looks as good on as in the bottle, this is it. The colors are gorgeous—like this rich forest green—and the finish is super glossy. $18 AT SMITH & CULT
- Price: $18 at Smith & Cult
- Known for its eight-free formula, Smith & Cult delivers glossy finishes in rich colors. The thicker consistency ensures smooth application, and the polish is revered for its two-week durability.
Sundays Non-Toxic Nail Polish
- Price: $14
- Sundays, a chic NYC salon, presents a 10-free, vegan, and cruelty-free formula. With 45 shades to choose from, it offers a salon-like experience in the comfort of your home.
Sundays is a chic salon local to NYC, and its nail polish is no different. Its formula is 10-free, vegan, and cruelty-free, while its staying power is fairly good for a non-toxic nail polish. $14!
Ella + Mila Elite Collection Nail Polish
- Price: $10.49
- This seven-free formula from Ella + Mila requires only two coats for an opaque finish. The Elite Collection offers a range of stylish shades for any occasion.
Zoya Nail Lacquer
- Price: $9 at Zoya
- Zoya, a prominent name in non-toxic polish, presents a five-free formula with over 400 vegan-friendly shades. The brand is known for its gorgeous colors and commitment to cleaner beauty.
Non Toxic Nail Polish on Amazon
These non toxic makeup brands can get to you the next day if you have Amazon Prime!
10 Free Chemistry Plant-Based Clean Nail Polish
- Price: $14 on Amazon
- Boasting 21 toxic-free ingredients, this brand offers a variety of shades, ensuring long-lasting and strengthening effects.
JINsoon Tila March Collection Nail Lacquer
- Price: $17 on Amazon
- JINsoon’s five-free formula, along with UV filters, prevents fading and yellowing. The extended shelf life and precise application make it a top choice for lasting wear.
ZOYA Nail Polish
- Price: $10 on Amazon
- With over 300 shades, Zoya’s 10-free formula includes popular options like Brenna, ideal for traditional French manicures.
Ten Over Ten Nail Polish
- Price: $11 on Amazon
- This eight-free formula from Ten over Ten features earthy tones, with chip-resistant and glossy results.
Non-toxic nail polishes have become better and more accessible than ever, but one place where it’s generally been harder to find is in the drugstore nail aisle. Good news: Sally Hansen’s new line of vegan polishes changes that. The collection comes in 30 shades and features a 16-free formula that’s entirely plant-based (including the brush bristles). $Under 7 on Amazon.
Exploring New Frontiers: Beyond 10-Free
As the demand for non-toxic nail polishes grows, brands are pushing boundaries by formulating polishes beyond the 10-free standard. The term “free” refers to the exclusion of specific harmful ingredients, and as the number increases, so does the assurance of a cleaner and safer product.
17-Free Nail Polish:
A Pinnacle of Clean Beauty While the 10-free standard is widely accepted, some brands are elevating the bar by introducing 17-free nail polishes. The “17-free” label signifies the exclusion of an even broader spectrum of potentially harmful ingredients. This commitment to clean beauty represents a pinnacle in the non-toxic nail polish industry, offering consumers an opportunity to prioritize their well-being with an unprecedented level of assurance.
Understanding Toxic Ingredients:
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) One of the toxic ingredients commonly excluded from non-toxic nail polish formulations is dibutyl phthalate (DBP). This phthalate has been associated with various health concerns, including disruptions in the nervous system that can affect hormonal balance. Opting for non-toxic alternatives that are free from DBP allows individuals to minimize their exposure to harmful substances.
Choosing natural nail polishes and adopting a nail care routine that focuses on the health of your natural nails is a holistic approach to nail care. This involves not only the choice of nail polish but also the consideration of the top coat used and the overall polish formula.
Top coat selection is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in the longevity and appearance of your nail polish. A high-quality top coat not only enhances the shine of your manicure but also provides an additional layer of protection. When exploring non-toxic options, ensure that your chosen top coat aligns with the same standards as your nail polish, contributing to an overall healthier nail care routine.
Natural nail polishes come in a variety of nail colors, allowing you to express your style without compromising your health. The extensive range of shades offered by non-toxic brands ensures that you can find the perfect color for any occasion, from classic reds to trendy neutrals.
Nail Polish Remover
Traditional nail polish removers often contain harsh chemicals like acetone, which can strip the nails of natural oils and leave them brittle. Opting for non-toxic nail polish removers ensures that your natural nails remain healthy and nourished even when changing nail colors frequently. Here’s a great non toxic nail polish remover to try!
In conclusion, embracing natural nail polishes and a non-toxic nail care routine is a positive step toward promoting personal well-being and contributing to a healthier planet. The availability of diverse shades, innovative formulas, and the exclusion of harmful ingredients make non-toxic nail polishes a compelling choice for beauty enthusiasts seeking a safer and more sustainable approach to nail care.
