We Found Out What “5-Free Nail Polish” Actually Means
Photo: Bryon Summers for StyleBlazer
If you’re a nail polish hoarder like me, chances are you rarely glance at the ingredients on the back of each bottle. The colors may be beautiful, but sadly, a lot of them are toxic for your nail beds. As of late, we’ve been seeing the phrase “5-free” within the beauty industry; an indicator of health-conscious products. But, what exactly are our trusty lacquers free of?
I consulted with Daniela Mellis, the co-founder of treat collection, a line of 5-free nail polishes, for all of the nasty details. Next time you go shopping for polish, make sure the following ingredients are not included in your final choice:
Photo: Shutterstock
-FORMALDEHYDE – a known carcinogen, is used as a hardening agent.
-FORMALDEHYDE RESIN – used to break proof plastic. Can be found in the production of chipboards and circuit boards, but deemed to cause allergic reactions and skin irritation.
-TOLUOENE – this liquid is also contained in gasoline and is used as a solvent – but EU Regulation classifies it as harmful to health. Its strong smell would drive you to your knees and can be addictive.
-DBP (DIBUTYL PHTHALATE) A commonly used plasticizer used to keeps plastics elastic, but they are entirely out of place in cosmetics. Given that it is classified as toxic and linked to birth defects, it is even prohibited for such purposes in the EU.
-CAMPHOR – nnother component used as plasticizer – in addition it is used in pest control and blasting gelatine. Not very sexy, all the less since it is psychoactive and toxic, thereby causing nausea, respiratory distress and panic attacks.
Photo: Bryon Summers for StyleBlazer
Now, if you’re really about this health-conscious life, but still need a fresh manicure every couple of weeks, get into the habit of bringing your own to the salon or spa.
“I am always completely astonished seeing high end, luxe resort spas, that have dedicated their spas on being green, organic – some even with their own wonderful organic spa range and organic cuisine – to offer their guests manis and pedis with only the unhealthiest nail polishes.,” says Daniela. “Yikes …When I travel and want to indulge, I always carry my own!”
And if the term “7-free” also comes to mind (a lot of companies have adopted this term), Daniela says it’s nothing more than a PR and marketing strategy:
The post We Found Out What “5-Free Nail Polish” Actually Means appeared first on StyleBlazer.
