- Is Nail Polish Bad For Your Health?
- Toxic ingredients in nail polish
- Endocrine disruptors in nail polish
- Effects on skin
- Environmental impact of nail polish
- Why Should You File Your Nails?
- Vitamin B9
- Healthy diet
- Biotin-rich foods
- File in one direction to avoid splintering
- Effects of filing in a back-and-forth motion on the strength of nails
Is Nail Polish Bad For Your Health?
While nail polish might not be the first thing that springs to mind when we think of environmental hazards, most of the ingredients can have serious consequences. These include endocrine disruptors, carcinogenic agents, birth defects, and even miscarriages. The toxic trio of dibutyl phthalate and toluene have also been linked to lung diseases, including cancer and early puberty. Besides these, a joint study by the Environmental Working Group and Duke University linked the chemical triphenyl phosphate to obesity and early puberty.
Toxic ingredients in nail polish
Did you know that nail polish contains harmful chemicals? If you wear nail polish frequently, you may want to avoid it to protect your health. Many nail polish products contain a chemical known as toluene, which is used in the suspension of color to produce a smooth finish across the nail. Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors and can harm your kidneys, reproductive system, and liver.
Toluene and formaldehyde are two common chemicals in nail polish. Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen, and it can be present in a single application of nail polish. Toluene is a moderate skin irritant and dermatitis-causing agent. It is a developmental toxicity hazard and has also been linked to several cancers, including lung cancer.
Xylene is a known carcinogen linked to kidney damage, liver cancer, and memory loss. Phthalates are a group of chemicals that prevent nail polish from cracking. Phthalates disrupt the endocrine system and are known to cause reproductive defects in animals. They are now being studied for their toxic effects on human beings. Methacrylate monomers are another common chemical in nail polish. They are non-biodegradable and are not suitable for the environment.
While the nail polish is safe for occasional use, prolonged exposure can be hazardous to your health. However, if you work in a cosmetic salon, your risk is higher. To minimize the direction, make sure to use proper ventilation and protect your cuticles. You can also avoid nail polish altogether by following these tips. While you’re at it, don’t forget to check the ingredients list and read the label carefully.
Nail polish labels contain a wide variety of chemicals. While most are relatively harmless, several chemicals are endocrine disruptors that enter the bloodstream. Some of the most toxic ingredients in nail polish include triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), which is suspected of causing reproductive and developmental problems in humans. TPHP has been found in nearly half of nail polishes, and many brands do not list them on their labels.
Endocrine disruptors in nail polish
One of the most common cosmetic ingredients is Triphenyl phosphate or TPHP. This chemical mimics natural hormones and is linked to obesity, and it can also trigger the development of bone cells, leading to fertility issues. The environmental group has long called on Congress to update personal care products and cosmetics laws. It is also suspected of being an endocrine disruptor, and the ecological risks are significant enough to make many consumers decide to avoid the products in their makeup.
Another common ingredient that has been linked to adverse health effects is TPHP, which is a plasticizer and flame retardant. It is found in more than half of nail polishes, and scientists are increasingly concerned about the potential health effects on children. TPHP can affect development and reproductive processes and may cause organ malfunctions. In a recent study by environmental advocacy group Environment International, researchers found TPHP in eight of the ten samples tested from department stores.
The results showed that despite the high level of DEHP in nail polish, the samples were primarily free of phthalates, organophosphates, and other ingredients linked to hormonal disruption. One nail polish brand with high DEHP concentrations was excluded from the study. A third brand did not mention DEHP on its label. A further nine brands had undeclared plasticizer levels below 100 mg/g. These levels may be due to unintentional impurities during manufacturing or contamination of ingredients.
Another chemical added to nail polish is dibutyl phthalate (TPHP). This chemical is an endocrine disruptor. It mimics the hormone estrogen in the body. They have been linked to reproductive problems, premature menopause, and organ damage. Therefore, it is essential to avoid using nail polish containing TPHP. It may be worth looking for a new nail polish brand that is free of TPHP.
A study carried out by EWG found that a chemical used in making nail polish – TPHP – was detected in 97 percent of the samples. TPHP levels were higher in the polishes that had disclosed TPHP on their SDSs than those that didn’t. Although these levels are low, the effects of this substance on the reproductive system are not yet known. The EWG also found that TPHP was present in clear nail polish compared to colored nail polish.
Effects on skin
If you’ve ever painted your nails, you’ve likely noticed chemicals on the label aren’t all that safe for your health. There are many known toxic elements in nail polish, and some of these can enter the bloodstream and have adverse health effects. One of these is triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), a suspected endocrine disruptor. Exposure to TPHP has been linked to reproductive and developmental problems. This chemical is widely used in manufacturing plastic and foam furniture and has been linked to adverse health effects in animals and humans.
Another chemical in nail polish is toluene, commonly used in gasoline. It’s also a potential skin irritant. It can affect the central nervous system, causing weakness and confusion, and even have reproductive risks. Although TPHP is safe to use in small amounts, large doses could lead to reproductive problems. In addition to this, TPHP is an effective flame-retardant.
Although acetone can be absorbed by the body, it’s considered safe in moderation. A small amount of acetone in nail polish remover is safe, but a significant amount can be toxic. The symptoms include headache, slurred speech, and lethargy. The chemical is absorbed by several organs, including the skin and nails. The effects of nail polish on the skin are most severe on the hands and nails, which can aggravate existing health problems.
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that is commonly used in the production of nail polish. It can irritate the throat, lungs, and skin and is linked to cancer in the blood and neck. Another harmful ingredient in nail polish is nitrocellulose, similar to the chemical used in explosives. This substance can damage the central nervous system and reproductive organs. It can cause headaches, and numbness, and even damage to the nerves in the throat and eyes.
Environmental impact of nail polish
The environmental impact of nail polish remover is enormous, as it is one of the most widely used chemical products. The product can quickly enter the soil and landfills after being used. In addition, the acetone it contains will decompose and contribute to oxygen depletion in the water. When you multiply this number by the world’s population, you can get an idea of the impact. However, there are several steps you can take to minimize the environmental impact of nail polish remover.
First, do not throw your nail polish away in the trash! Nail polish bottles contain hazardous waste and cannot be recycled. If your nail polish bottles are not clean and dry, you can take them to a hazardous waste facility to get them disposed of properly. Otherwise, these bottles will end up in landfills. Moreover, they are not recyclable, so they must be thrown away carefully. Recycling nail polish bottles are not as easy as it sounds. Most salons are not set up to take the bottles, so you need to get a recycling bin.
In addition to these negative impacts, nail polish can also contain harmful toxic elements that can enter your bloodstream through the nail bed. One of these elements is TPHP, a known endocrine disruptor. It was found in women’s blood 10-14 hours after they had painted their nails. Exposure to TPHP has been linked to reproductive and developmental problems. Furthermore, TPHP is commonly used in plastic and foam furniture manufacturing.
Another method that can help you minimize the environmental impact of nail polish is to look for “5-free” labels. These products do not contain the hazardous trio benzophenone found in many brands. However, whether or not these are free from this ingredient may still pose a risk.
Nail polish contains numerous ingredients, including toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate. Dibutyl phthalate is one of nail polish’s most common toxic ingredients, and repeated exposure can cause ill effects, such as nausea, watery eyes, dizziness, and headache. Exposure to these chemicals is linked to liver and kidney damage. Even though the US Environmental Protection Agency has yet to ban these chemicals, there is no reason why you should stop wearing nail polish.
Why Should You File Your Nails?
Do you want to know how to file your nails? You’re not alone if you don’t see what filing nails do. Many people wonder what the benefits are and why you should do it. You should remember to use slight pressure, only file in one direction, and file your nails evenly. Regular exposure to water can weaken your nails and lead to splitting. If you don’t file your nails, you could even make them split.
Vitamin B9
If you have trouble breaking or peeling your nails, you might want to consider taking a vitamin supplement. Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid, is essential for cellular repair. It will strengthen your nails and decrease your risk of breakage and peeling. Keratin is a crucial protein for healthy nails. Supplements or keratin oil can help you get the protein you need. Another vitamin that can help you grow stronger nails is biotin, found in dietary supplements. Biotin supplements will help you meet your daily requirements and improve your nails’ strength within four to nine months.
Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid, is a natural substance that promotes the growth of cells in the hair, skin tissue, and nails. When you file your nails, always use an acetone-free nail polish remover. Acetone is harmful to weak nails because it is drying and harsh. You can also use a non-acetone-based nail polish remover to avoid damaging your nails. Also, many nail polishes contain toxins. Try nail polishes with less toxic ingredients, such as naseberry and Essie.
Healthy diet
Senior nutritionist Rose Carr suggests eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Adding oily fish to your diet at least twice a week will provide the necessary essential oils to strengthen your nails. Mussels and red meat are also good sources of iron. And drink plenty of water. You may wonder if filing and eating a healthy diet would make your nails stronger. The answer is yes!
Bananas and kiwis are rich in vitamin C and help strengthen your nails naturally. Dried apricots and bananas are excellent sources of vitamin A and vitamin B6. Leafy green vegetables contain calcium, iron, folate, and magnesium. Lastly, avocados and bananas contain biotin, which helps prevent dry skin and brittle hair. Avocados also contain vitamin E, preventing dryness and cracks in your nails.
You can also help strengthen your fingernails by eating more protein. Protein is an essential muscle-building nutrient, and it also promotes strong nails. Lean protein sources include chicken, turkey, and vegetarian-friendly tempeh. You should also eat plenty of almonds, rich in Vitamin E and zinc. Lastly, you can try eating more almonds and whole-grain cereal.
Biotin-rich foods
If you want stronger, longer-lasting nails, eat plenty of colorful vegetables. Among the most nutritious foods for your nails are tomatoes, which are high in Vitamin C, and excellent sources of antioxidants. Other good sources of biotin include sweet potatoes and carrots, which have high amounts of vitamin A. And for even more health benefits, add more biotin-rich foods to your diet by taking vitamin E supplements.
Beans and lentils contain nine essential vitamins and minerals to help your nails grow longer and more robust. Then, you don’t have to worry about consuming too much or too little.
Nuts, seeds, and fruits are excellent sources of biotin. A quarter cup of roasted almonds or sunflower seeds has about 0.4 micrograms of biotin. You can also add nuts to salads or stir-fries. Bananas are a great source of dietary fiber, calcium, and potassium. If you don’t like nuts, try peanuts! Each serving of peanuts has about one microgram of biotin.
Eggs are also a good source of biotin, which increases the production of proteins in the nail matrix. Biotin increases nail thickness and strength. Supplements, however, may interfere with medical tests, so biotin-rich foods should be your first choice for healthy nails. However, it’s important to note that taking supplements can have undesirable side effects. In addition to eating foods rich in biotin, you should also consider incorporating biotin into your diet.
File in one direction to avoid splintering
You should file your nails in one direction to avoid splinters and tear-outs. Most people file their nails in many rules, starting at the sides and working toward the tip of each finger. This will help you shape the sides of the nail while finishing in a single direction. The next time you file your nails, keep this simple tip in mind. It will help you avoid splintering and tear-outs.
When filing your nails, keep in mind that you should point them in a single direction rather than back and forth. Doing so will protect your nails from tearing or splitting. You can also use an acceptable grit buffer to smooth rough edges or small uneven areas. After you’re done, use a nail file or emery board to shape and polish your nails to perfection.
Before you begin filing your nails, inspect the form of your nails to make sure they are in the right shape. File them slowly to prevent chipping or tearing. Don’t cut off too much of the nail at once, or it will cause an imbalance that will damage the nail’s appearance. Going will give you the desired result with more minor damage. The best way to avoid splintering is to practice slow filing.
Effects of filing in a back-and-forth motion on the strength of nails
Using the wrong technique can cause damage to the natural nail plate, but filing your nails in a back-and-forth pattern can cause more minor damage. You can safely file your nails without harming them as long as you’re using the correct abrasives and downward pressure. To prevent damage to your natural nail plate, use a file with a 180-grit or higher. Anything below this can damage the nail plate. Heavy downward pressure can also lead to more significant damage. The natural nail becomes weaker as more layers are removed and can even tear.
If your nails are brittle and weak, it can be challenging to grow them. Proper trimming and filing are essential to healthy nails. If you’re prone to weak nails, it’s best to file them in a single direction and only when they’re dry. Wet nails are prone to breakage, so rub them gently. Do not overdo it!
If you’re worried about your nails breaking, you should file them properly. Improper filling can lead to jagged or frayed nails and damage the nail bed and cuticle. To avoid damaging your nails:
- Use an OK emery board on a ragged section of your nails.
- Remember that the goal of filing is to strengthen weak spots.
- Never file them with a back-and-forth motion, which can weaken them further.