Sophia Delgado
There are many non-toxic gel nail polish options available. Madam Glam advertises its gels as free of the 21 most toxic ingredients and made with eco-friendly practices. Manucurist's Green Flash™ is a non-toxic, plant-based, and vegan formula that is also free of controversial ingredients. There are also non-toxic gel nail polish options available on Amazon, such as the Hillento and Tophany brands, as well as DIY options from brands like West Coast Dips, Le mini macaron, and Young Nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brand | Madam Glam, Ohora, Le mini macaron, Light Elegance, Function of Vex, Hillento, Tophany, Green Flash, MelodySusie, beetles, Born Pretty, CANNI, JODSONE, Gelish, GAOY, West Coast Dips, Luxie Nails, A'galore |
| Ingredients | Free of the 21 most toxic ingredients, HEMA-free, 12-free, plant-based, vegan, cruelty-free, free of inflammable solvents, non-corrosive, water-based, free of controversial ingredients (endocrine disruptors, CMR, sensitizing monomers, hydroquinones, etc.), free of acetone, alcohol-free, aluminum-free, formaldehyde-free, dibutyl phthalate-free |
| Other | Long-lasting, chip-resistant, heat-activated color, quick-dry, color-changing, glow-in-the-dark, holographic, magnetic, washable, glossy, matte, metallic, satin, sheer, shimmery, reflective, biodegradable, fragrance-free, gluten-free, GMO-free, natural, organic |
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What You'll Learn
Non-toxic gel nail polish brands
There are several non-toxic gel nail polish brands available on the market. These brands offer gel nail polishes that are free from harmful chemicals and allergens that can cause skin and eye irritation, headaches, dizziness, nausea, allergic reactions, and other severe health issues. Here are some of the notable non-toxic gel nail polish brands:
Manucurist
Manucurist's Green Flash™ is the first patented LED gel polish that strengthens nails under colour. It is instantly dry, offering long-lasting wear for up to 12 days, and can be removed just like regular polish—in 1 minute, without acetone. Its formula is up to 84% plant-based, 12-free, and free from controversial ingredients such as endocrine disruptors, CMR, sensitizing monomers, and hydroquinones.
CNC
CNC offers a range of non-toxic UV gel products, including UV Base Gels, UV Builder Gels, Top Coat UV Gels, Color UV Gels, and UV Glitter Gels. Their products are free from harmful chemicals like the Toxic Trio (Dibutyl Phthalate, Formaldehyde, and Toluene) and additional chemicals known to be detrimental to both users and the environment. CNC's 15-free UV gels are designed to be gentle and safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Madam Glam
Madam Glam's gels are free from the 21 most toxic ingredients and are made with eco-friendly practices. They offer exclusive private sales and free shipping within the US.
Bioseaweed
Bioseaweed is a brand that offers "5-free" nail polishes, which means they are free from five harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional nail polishes, including DBP, Formaldehyde, Toluene, Formaldehyde Resin, and Camphor.
Le Mini Macaron
Le Mini Macaron is a vegan and cruelty-free brand that offers gel nail polishes free from many potentially harmful substances.
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Ingredients to avoid
When it comes to cosmetics, the term "non-toxic" can be difficult to decipher. The term "five-free" is often used in the context of nail polish, referring to polishes that do not contain five specific ingredients: formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, and camphor. Formaldehyde is a preservative that has been identified as a potential cancer-causing agent by the National Cancer Institute. It is also one of the most frequent causes of allergic contact dermatitis. Formaldehyde resin, dibutyl phthalate, and toluene can also induce allergic contact dermatitis. If consumed orally, camphor oil, which has long been used as a topical treatment for various illnesses, can be toxic.
In addition to the aforementioned ingredients, there are other chemicals found in nail polishes that can pose significant health risks. Lead, for example, is a potent neurotoxin that can cause a range of health issues, especially in children and pregnant women. Exposure to lead can result in cognitive deficits, behavioural issues, and developmental delays in children, and hypertension, kidney damage, and reproductive problems in adults. It can also accumulate in bones, leading to long-term health risks.
MEHQ, an inhibitor used to prevent polymerization in nail polish, can cause skin sensitization and allergic reactions, as well as dermatitis, which is characterized by redness, itching, and swelling of the skin. Prolonged exposure to MEHQ can also lead to respiratory irritation and eye damage. Tert-butyl hydroperoxide, an initiator used in gel polish formulations, can cause severe skin irritation and is a potential carcinogen, resulting in chemical burns and blistering upon contact with the skin.
Surfactants, such as nonylphenol ethoxylates, are used in various cosmetic products. These chemicals can bioaccumulate in the environment, posing risks to wildlife and ecosystems, and interfere with hormone function in humans, leading to reproductive and developmental issues. They are also endocrine disruptors and can be toxic to aquatic life.
Other ingredients to avoid include ethyl tosylamide, commonly found in nail polish as a plasticizer to improve flexibility and durability, which has been linked to skin irritation, photosensitivity, allergic reactions, and potential endocrine disruption. Additionally, pigments used in nail polish may contain lead, a potent neurotoxin.
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Eco-friendly practices
There are several non-toxic gel nail polish options available that are made with eco-friendly practices. These products are free from toxic ingredients and are often plant-based, vegan, and cruelty-free.
One popular option is Green Flash™ by Manucurist, which is an LED gel polish that strengthens nails and offers long-lasting wear. It is up to 84% plant-based, vegan, and free from controversial ingredients such as endocrine disruptors, CMR, sensitizing monomers, and hydroquinones. It is also free of acetone, which is a common ingredient in nail polish removers.
Another option is Madam Glam, which offers gels that are made with eco-friendly practices and are free from the 21 most toxic ingredients. Their polishes are also HEMA-free and come in a variety of sheer colored rubber bases.
Other non-toxic gel nail polish brands include Hillento, which offers a water-based, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly formula, and Ohora, which produces toxin-free and safety-certified strips. Additionally, some individual polishes from brands like Beetles, MelodySusie, Born Pretty, CANNI, Gelish, and GAOY are also advertised as non-toxic.
It is important to note that while these brands market their products as non-toxic and eco-friendly, it is always a good idea to research the specific ingredients and practices of any nail polish brand to ensure they align with your values and health considerations.
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Removal methods
There are several methods to remove gel nail polish, some of which can be done at home, and others that require a trip to the salon. It's important to note that gel nail polishes are loaded with toxic chemicals and carcinogens, which are harmful to your health. Therefore, it is essential to choose a removal method that prioritises your well-being. Here are some detailed instructions for removing gel nail polish at home:
Traditional Acetone Method:
- Work on one hand at a time, preferably your non-dominant hand first.
- Protect your work area with a cloth or plastic wrap to avoid acetone stains.
- Cut 10 squares of aluminium foil, big enough to wrap around each fingertip.
- Tear 10 pieces of cotton balls or pads to fit the size of each nail bed.
- Use a coarse nail file to file down the gel top coat until it loses its shine and smoothness.
- Soak the cotton pieces in acetone, ensuring they are damp but not dripping wet.
- Apply petroleum jelly to the skin around your nails to protect them from the acetone.
- Place the acetone-soaked cotton on your nails and wrap them with the aluminium foil.
- Wait for about 10 minutes, then gently pinch off the foil and cotton.
- Use a metal cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick to push off the softened gel polish.
- Buff your nails gently to smooth out ridges and remove any remaining polish.
- Wash your hands with a gentle soap and water to remove the acetone.
- Apply petroleum jelly to your cuticles and the surrounding skin for the next seven days to reduce irritation.
Non-Acetone Methods:
There are also non-acetone gel polish removers available, such as the Honeybee Gardens Endure Primer/Sealer, which is vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free. These removers are applied directly to the nail, allowed to sit for a few seconds, and then gently scraped off with a cuticle stick or pusher. These removers are less harsh on the nails and do not have the strong odour associated with acetone.
Salon Soak-Off Method:
If you're unsure about removing gel nail polish at home, you can always opt for a professional removal service at a salon. They typically use a bowl filled with acetone to soak off the gel nails, which can be more effective and gentler on your nails.
Nail Growth Method:
Another option for removing gel nail polish is to simply let your nails grow out. This is a slow process, taking about six months for fingernails and 12 to 18 months for toenails. During this time, you can clip your nails once a week to help remove the gel polish and prevent catching on objects. However, it's important to resist the urge to pick or scrape off the polish, as this can damage your nails.
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Safety certifications
- Cruelty-Free and Vegan Certifications: Reputable organizations like Leaping Bunny and PETA provide certifications indicating that a product is cruelty-free, meaning it has not been tested on animals, and is vegan-friendly. These certifications assure consumers that the product is ethically sourced and produced without harming animals.
- Halal Certification: For individuals who prioritize faith-based practices, non-toxic nail polish brands may seek Halal certification. This certification ensures that the product complies with Islamic law, including the requirement for water permeability, enabling individuals to perform Wudu and pray without removing the nail polish.
- Chemical-Free Claims: Many non-toxic gel nail polishes are formulated without harmful chemicals. Common certifications include "3-free," indicating the absence of formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate, and "7-free" or "10-free," which signify an even greater number of toxic ingredients that have been excluded. Some brands go even further, with claims like "15-free" or "16-free", assuring consumers of their commitment to eliminating a comprehensive list of toxic chemicals.
- Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Practices: While there may not be specific certifications for this aspect, non-toxic gel nail polish brands often emphasize their commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable practices. This includes using plant-based and biodegradable formulas, recyclable packaging, and renewable energy sources in their production processes.
- Dermatologist-Approved: Although not a formal certification, endorsements from board-certified dermatologists can provide credibility to non-toxic gel nail polish products. Their approval signifies that the product is safe for skin and nails, reducing potential allergic reactions and other adverse effects.
- Longevity and Performance Certifications: While not directly related to safety, certifications or claims like "long-lasting" or "chip-resistant" assure consumers that the non-toxic gel nail polish can deliver comparable performance to traditional gel polishes. This addresses a common concern that non-toxic alternatives may not provide the same durability.
It is always advisable to research different non-toxic nail polish brands, read reviews, and familiarize yourself with the ingredients to make an informed decision.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, there are non-toxic gel nail polishes available on the market. Some brands include Green Flash™ by Manucurist, Hillento, Madam Glam, Ohora, and Le mini macaron.
Traditional gel nail polishes contain toxic ingredients such as formaldehyde, acetone, alcohol, aluminum, and dibutyl phthalate. These ingredients can be harmful to both your nails and your health.
When looking for a non-toxic gel nail polish, read the ingredient list carefully and look for products that are marketed as "12-free," "15-free," or "21-free," which means they are free of the most common toxic ingredients. Additionally, choose brands that prioritize natural, plant-based, and vegan formulas.
Non-toxic gel nail polishes offer a safer alternative to traditional gel polishes, reducing the risk of nail damage and exposure to harmful chemicals. They are also more environmentally friendly and often provide a longer-lasting, high-shine manicure.
