Ingredients are important not only in the food we eat, but in the nail polish we wear. You've probably seen some nail polish brands make claims like 5-free and 7-free, but what does that actually mean?
Let's take a look at Essie's ingredient list for their cult-favorite color, Ballet Slippers:
Ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, nitrocellulose, propyl acetate, tosylamide/formaldehyde resin, isopropyl alcohol, trimethyl pentanyl diisobutyrate, triphenyl phosphate, ethyl tosylamide, camphor, stearalkonium bentonite, diacetone alcohol, stearalkonium hectonite, benzophenone-1, synthetic fluorphlogopite, citric acid, silica, aluminum hydroxide, colophonium/rosin/colophane, calcium aluminum borosilicate, aqua/water/eau, aluminum calcium sodium silicate, calcium sodium borosilicate, dimethicone, alumina, polyethylene terephthalate, oleth-10 phosphate. polyurethane-33
Here's a breakdown of what shouldn't be in there:
1. Tosylamide/formadehyde resin - While not as toxic as Formaldehyde, this derivative can cause allergic reactions
2. Triphenyl phosphate - Commonly found in fire retardants; has been linked to reproductive and developmental issues when tested in animals
3. Ethyl tosylamide - Banned in European cosmetics due to its similarity to antibiotics; there is concern that exposure to this chemical can help the evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria
4. Camphor - Use of this chemical is restricted in Canada; can cause skin irritation among other things
Some brands I love:
Rooted Woman - A Black-owned and operated brand that promotes self-care through ethical, non-toxic nail polish and treatments
J. Hannah - Primarily a jewelry brand that also creates USA-made, non-toxic, cruelty-free polishes meant to complement a well-adorned hand