Every time we open a bottle containing toluene to look at the color of a nail polish in a nail salon, for example, we are exposed to toluene even if we don’t apply the product. Therefore pregnant women should avoid going to salons which use polish containing toluene, and should also avoid typical nasty brands on the market. Nearly all nail polishes available today are considered three-free, meaning they don’t contain the undoubtedly toxic formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). Low to moderate daily workplace exposure can cause temporary tiredness, confusion, weakness, nausea and memory loss. Not quite. ani michele is not formulated with any of the following ingredients: formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, camphor, toluene, dibutyl phthalate (dbp), triphenyl phosphate (tphp) or xylene. [3], VULNERABLE POPULATIONS: Nail salon workers, pregnant women, REGULATIONS: Restricted in cosmetics in the EU; found unsafe for use in cosmetics by the International Fragrance Association Codes and Standards. Locally made, in Buffalo, NY, Gridlock Lacquer nail polish is 5 FREE, formulated without the toxic combination of formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, camphor or formaldehyde resin. It comes in 400 vegan-friendly shades , the colors are gorgeous, and it's a five-free formula. Benzoyl peroxide, better known as an … Toluene is a toxic chemical used in in nail products and hair dyes. This abrasive chemical comes from petroleum, so the toxic smell is bad enough in itself. [2]. In nail polish, tosylamide/formaldehyde resin is used, and may contain residual formaldehyde concentrations of up to 0.5 per cent. $ 9.00. The so-called toxic trio of nail polish consists of dibutyl phthalate (a plasticizer), toluene (to evenly suspend color), and formaldehyde (a known carcinogen that is used as a hardening agent). Try buffing nails instead of lacquering. Prenatal exposure to phthalates has even been linked to lower IQ. Skip the mani and just get a pedi. Toluene is an organic solvent that is used in nail polish, base coats and topcoats to help the polish stay on the nail. [1], FOUND IN: Nail polish, nail treatment, hair dyes. I began to wonder what exactly is in that nail polish grandma would paint on her toes. Nail Polish; Formaldehyde-, Toluene-, and DBP-Free Nail Polishes The Formaldehyde-, Toluene-, and DBP-Free Nail Polishes We Love. [2] Additionally, in human epidemiological studies and in animal studies, this chemical has been associated with toxicity to the immune system and also possibly with blood cancers such as malignant lymphoma. David Suzuki identifies three toxic substances found in nail polish: 1. Workers using toluene-containing paints, varnishes, shellac, nail polish, glues and adhesives, rust preventives or printing inks may be exposed to toluene. Toluene has also been listed as a known human respiratory toxicant by the Environmental Protection Agency. Most nail salon customers are not exposed to excessive amounts of tolue… [1] FOUND IN: Nail polish, nail treatment, hair dyes. Nail polish (also known as nail varnish or nail enamel) is a lacquer that can be applied to the human fingernail or toenails to decorate and protect the nail plates.The formula has been revised repeatedly to enhance its decorative effects and to suppress cracking or peeling. Toluene is volatile, meaning it can easily evaporate into the air, making it impossible not to breathe. Toluene is the nail polish ingredient used to create a smooth application and finish. Safe concentrations -- less than 50 percent -- have been established by the Food and Drug Administration 2⭐⭐This is a verified and trusted source Goto Source 3⭐⭐This is a verified and trusted source Goto Source . Mothers should be diligent in researching chemical-free alternatives and only applying these during pregnancy. No, I mean nail polish LITERALLY stinks. ... "I might say go easy on the nail polish… Be aware also that toluene is often an ingredient in certain household products, paints and solvents – so exposure can accumulate. 2. Toluene is known as part of the so-called “toxic trio” of dangerous chemicals found in polishes, including formaldehyde, a preservative, and dibutyl phthalate, which gives polish a hard finish. so start your collection of ani michele today, you won't be disappointed! [3], Organ system toxicity: Dysfunction of the central nervous system following acute, intermediate or high inhalation exposure to toluene is a critical health concern. Products that may contain toluene-such as paint, metal cleaners and adhesives-are used in many industries and can be found in many workplaces. Pregnant women should apply and remove polish in a well-ventilated area. Non-toxic nail polish does not contain toluene. Drought Breaker Buffalo Collection Nail Polish. Nail salons are mostly small businesses that employ or contract with trained professionals to provide clients with nail services including, but not limited to, nail filing and polishing, artificial nail application, and other hand- and foot-care treatments.. Nail technicians working in salons across the United States face possible health hazards every day. Is nail polish during pregnancy safe (including toluene)? Toluene is used as a solvent in a variety of nail products, including some nail polishes, nail hardeners, and polish removers; however, its use is being phased-out. Toluene. Additionally, in human epidemiological studies and in animal studies, this chemical has been associated with toxicity to the immune system and also possibly with blood cancers such as malignant lymphoma. Associated risks of toluene are liver and kidney damage, irritation of the skin, headaches, dizziness and birth defects. Non-toxic nail polish is free of damaging chemicals. It is also commonly used in nail polish removers and it’s sweet pungent fumes are highly toxic. Salon workers should wear face masks when working with nail polishes containing toluene, and if possible should only work with nail polishes that do not contain toluene. One of the most harmful substances found in this beauty product is toluene. This will guard against possible fetal development damage that may otherwise result. Low to moderate daily workplace exposure can cause temporary tiredness, confusion, weakness, nausea and memory loss. [3] Exposure to high concentrations of toluene via inhalation during pregnancy may be toxic to the developing fetus. This known carcinogen has been linked to certain cancers such as leukemia. Pregnant women should avoid wearing nail polish containing chemicals of the infamous “toxic-trio”, including toluene. Choosing the Best Club Flyer Printing Services – Know More, Paid and Organic SEO Marketing Through Yahoo, Following Etiquettes Are Important While Gambling Online. HOW TO AVOID: Look for less toxic brands and formulations of nail polishes and treatment. Toluene is not a necessary component in nail polish as there are several brands available these days that do not include this harmful substance as one of their ingredients. Your email address will not be published. Toluene is added to gasoline, used to produce benzene, and used as a solvent. Gasoline and other fuels also contain toluene. This chemical is part of the “toxic-trio,” which refers to the three most dangerous ingredients found in many nail polish brands today. Zoya is one of the bigger names in the non-toxic nail polish world, and it's not hard to see why. http://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3646.pdf, http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp56.pdf, https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/hec/csem/toluene/docs/toluene.pdf, http://www.cdc.gov/exposurereport/pdf/FourthReport.pdf. Based on these factors, DTSC has determined that toluene-containing nail products may contribute to or cause significant or widespread adverse impacts to nail industry workers, women, infants, children, and environmental [3] Exposure to high concentrations of toluene via inhalation during pregnancy may be toxic to the developing fetus. Toluene, now infamous among nail polish manufacturers and nail technicians because of a drawn-out legal fight in California and many misleading news reports, has become known in the nail industry as, not affectionately, “the T word.” . Inhalation of chemical contaminants is so bad that New York City has passed laws to protect workers in nail parlors.The “toxic trio” in many nail polish brands are full of toluene, dibutyl phthalate, and formaldehyde. [2] Limit polish use, especially by children. Studies of occupationally exposed workers indicate that chronic exposure to concentrations of toluene ranging from 30-150 ppm can result in hearing and color vision damage, reduced ability in tests of cognitive and neuromuscular function and neurotoxic symptoms. It has a sweet, pungent smell and is also found in most conventional nail polish removers. This article explains what the chemical toluene is and its purpose, why it should be avoided as much as possible (particularly during pregnancy) and what other alternatives are available for women who are health-conscious or sensitive to the chemical toluene. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies formaldehyde as a known human carcinogen. Many other nail polish ingredients are known to be carcinogenic. Most non-toxic nail polishes are three-free, meaning they do not contain formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate. Vegan. The reason why many beauty companies include toluene as an ingredient in their nail polish is because it is a solvent which assists in the smooth application of nail polish and also acts as a thinner. This chemical is part of the “toxic-trio,” which refers to the three most dangerous ingredients found in many nail polish brands today. WHAT TO LOOK FOR ON THE LABEL: Toluene [2]. When I learned there was toluene, phthalates, and formaldehyde in nail polish, I became concerned. The central nervous system (CNS) is the primary target organ for toluene toxicity in both humans and animals for acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) exposures. The facts about toluene are rather concerning and would make most people think twice about buying normal over-the-counter nail polish brands again. [3] Exposure to toluene in humans can result in respiratory tract irritation. [2] Additionally, in human epidemiological studies and in animal studies, this chemical has been associated with toxicity to the immune system and also possibly with blood cancers such as malignant lymphoma. Toluene: It is the most commonly used solvent and Toluene occurs naturally in crude oil and in the tolu tree. Toluene is a solvent, a substance that is used to mix the other ingredients in nail polish. Unable to display Facebook posts.Show errorfunction cffShowError() { document.getElementById("cff-error-reason").style.display = "block"; document.getElementById("cff-show-error").style.display = "none"; }, A project of Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, It is also used in nail products to suspend the color and form a smooth finish across the nail. A nail polish meant for adults could contain several toxic compounds. Toluene is a toxic chemical used in in nail products and hair dyes. The lab tested the products for three chemicals -- dibutyl phthalate, toluene, and formaldehyde-- commonly called the ''toxic trio." In the case of Ella + Mila Elite Nail Polish, its seven-free formula means the exclusion of formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, formaldehyde resin, camphor, triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), xylene. In 2015-16, nail polish sales represented $741 million of this amount. Imagine the nail technicians in the salon environment all day long. Practice BYOP—bring your own (safer) polish—to the salon. In nail polish, it is used as a preservative and it also has a very strong odor. Rather, you simply have to know your alternatives and get to know the chemical-free brands available on the market today. Each is formulated without parabens, phthalates (dibutyl phthalate), toluene, xylene, camphor, formaldehyde, or resin. Exposure to toluene can result in temporary effects such as headaches, dizziness and cracked skin, as well as more serious effects such as reproductive damage and respiratory complications. Toluene, also known as methylbenzene, is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive sweet smell that is widely used in industrial settings as a solvent. [2] A Korean study that looked at workers chronically exposed to toluene below 100 ppm found that this lower dose exposure was associated with neurobehavioral changes and could result in attention, concentration and motor performance deficits. While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has set limits for worker exposure to toluene, and the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health has set even stricter limits. Although Toluene is a potential skin irritant, no skin irritation or sentization has been observed in cosmetic products containing up to 33% Toluene. Another one of the “toxic trio” components, Toluene is a toxic chemical substance used in nail polish to give it that smooth application and finish that we all know and love. A mother’s exposure to toluene vapors during pregnancy may result in developmental damage in the fetus. A mother’s exposure to toluene vapors during pregnancy may result in developmental damage in the fetus. While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has set limits for worker exposure to toluene, and the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health has set even stricter limits [1], it is reasonable to assume that nail salon workers are exposed to unacceptably high levels of the chemical. [3], Developmental and reproductive toxicity: Toluene is listed as a possible human developmental toxicant by the California Environmental Protection Agency Proposition 65. These workers are exposed on a daily basis over long shifts in salons that may lack proper ventilation and environmental monitoring equipment. Exposure to toluene can result in temporary effects such as headaches, dizziness and cracked skin, as well as more serious effects such as reproductive damage and respiratory complications. Organ system toxicity: Dysfunction of the central nervous system following acute, intermediate or high inhalation exposure to toluene is a critical health concern. Irritation: The EU classifies toluene as a skin irritant (only for products for use on skin). The following are some of the notable potentially harmful chemicals often present in standard nail polish. Nail polish is notorious for its toxic chemicals and harmful ingredients. 605 Shares Formaldehyde, which is used in hail hardeners but usually not in nail polish, has been shown to produce nasal squamous cell cancers in rats and there is a high incidence of brain cancer in humans exposed to this chemical in occupational settings, such as morticians and pathologists. So thankfully you do not have to go polish free in order to avoid this chemical. Exposed to toluene may occur from breathing ambient or indoor air. So, is toluene a non-issue in nail polish? Much research has been done in this area and exposure to toluene should be kept to an absolute minimal. April 22, 2014 by Melissa Liebling-Goldberg. Toluene, one of the chemicals in nail polish, is a clear liquid that turns into a sweet- or sharp-smelling vapor when exposed to air. Toluene has been linked to birth defects with women who have had over-exposure to this harmful solvent. Add to cart. It is a volatile organic compound (VOC) and has been linked to fertility problems and miscarriage, including serious harm to female reproductive health and to fetal and newborn development . [4] Toluene has also been listed as a known human respiratory toxicant by the Environmental Protection Agency. Toluene also is an ingredient in some consumer products such as paints, glues and nail polish removers. The toxic trio consists of toluene, DBP (dibutyl phthalate) and formaldehyde. One of the most harmful substances found in this beauty product is toluene. Nail Polish Chemicals That Might Be Toxic For Your Baby. Toluene is, like formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. A clear top coat composition for application over a wet nail polish, comprising cellulose acetate propionate ester, a mixture of solvents free of toluene, and a plasticizer, providing a dry non-tacky, non-brittle solid coat which is quick drying when applied over a nail polish while wet. [2] A Korean study that looked at workers chronically exposed to toluene below 100 ppm found that this lower dose exposure was associated with neurobehavioral changes and could result in attention, concentration and motor performance deficits. However, the sole cosmetic use of Toluene is in products intended to be applied directly to the nail. It is also used in nail products to suspend the color and form a smooth finish across the nail. Developmental and reproductive toxicity: Toluene is listed as a possible human developmental toxicant by the California Environmental Protection Agency Proposition 65. High levels of toluene exposure can cause brain lesions, behavioural abnormalities and a wide range of other possible side effects. [2], Irritation: The EU classifies toluene as a skin irritant (only for products for use on skin). Toluene, xylene, and formalin or formaldehyde are toxic chemicals that were once common in nail polish but are rarely found now or found only in low concentrations. Film Formers Film formers are chemicals that form the smooth surface on a coat of nail polish. Nail polish is notorious for its toxic chemicals and harmful ingredients. [3] Toluene is included in a list of hazardous chemicals cited in a 1987 California law. [4] Toluene has also been listed as a known human respiratory toxicant by the Environmental Protection Agency. Another common ingredient found in many brands of nail polish is formaldehyde. Think Dirty® app is the easiest way to learn about the potentially toxic ingredients in your cosmetics and personal care products. Refer to https://developers.facebook.com/docs/apps/review/login-permissions#manage-pages and https://developers.facebook.com/docs/apps/review/feature#reference-PAGES_ACCESS for details. © 2021 Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, a project of. At an affordable price point, this lacquer is a worthy addition to your nail polish collection. Pacifica's 7-Free Nail Polish Collection features an assortment of vivid colors that are designed to apply smooth and last long. No animal testing. Error: (#10) This endpoint requires the 'manage_pages' or 'pages_read_user_content' permission or the 'Page Public Content Access' feature. [3] Exposure to toluene in humans can result in respiratory tract irritation. Studies of occupationally exposed workers indicate that chronic exposure to concentrations of toluene ranging from 30-150 ppm can result in hearing and color vision damage, reduced ability in tests of cognitive and neuromuscular function and neurotoxic symptoms. Toluene and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) are found in many consumer products, including cosmetics, synthetic fragrances, and nail polish. Required fields are marked *. Even low-level exposure of toluene could be potentially harmful to the developing fetus. Beyond that, polishes go as far as being nine-, or 10-, or even 14-free. A Korean study that looked at workers chronically exposed to toluene below 100 ppm found that this lower dose exposure was associated with neurobehavioral changes and could result in attention, concentration and motor performance deficits. Conventional Nail Polish Sure Does Stink. In recent years, three major nail polish companies—OPI, Orly and Sally Hansen—have removed toluene from their nail polishes, largely due to a multi-year campaign by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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