Green Your Nail Polish

Toxic Chemicals in Nail Polish:
Did you ever wonder why your manicurist wears a respirator? Commercial nail polishes contain dangerous chemicals that have been linked to cancer as well as birth defects.  Three of the most hazardous chemicals are Dibutylphtalate (DBP), Formaldehyde and Toluene.   Nearly every commercial nail polish contains these chemicals.  Many people are also allergic to Formaldehyde and suffer adverse reactions from nail polish containing Formaldehyde.  Here is what the EPA says about Formaldehyde: "Formaldehyde can cause watery eyes, burning sensations in the eyes and throat, nausea, and difficulty in breathing. High concentrations may trigger attacks in people with asthma. There is evidence that some people can develop a sensitivity to formaldehyde. It has also been shown to cause cancer in animals and may cause cancer in humans. Health effects include eye, nose, and throat irritation; wheezing and coughing; fatigue; skin rash; severe allergic reactions."

Green Nail Salons:
Many consumers are becoming aware of these hazards and are seeking healthier alternatives.  Although they are still something of a rarity Green Nail Salons are beginning to emerge.  Green Nail Salons benefit both the employees and the customers.  Traditional nail salons have very poor indoor air quality due to the high levels of chemicals used in nail polishes, removers and the application of acrylic nails.  These chemicals can lead to skin irritations, respiratory problems and even birth defects for the employees who work daily under these conditions.  If you frequent nail salons your exposure to these chemicals is also cause for concern, espeically if you are pregnant.  Green Nail Salons use non toxic nail polishes, removers and products and most refuse to do acrylic nails so the indoor air quality is much healthier.

How to Green Your Nail Care:

1. Choose a Green Nail Salon for your next nail appointment.
   
2. If you don't have a green nail salon in your area start bringing your own green nail polish to your mani-pedi appointments.  Zoya is a Green 4 Your Soul favorite and comes in all of the seasons hottest shades.
3. If you do your own nails always choose a green nail polish that is free from harmful chemicals and only use Acetone free nail polish removers.