Manicure and pedicure products can contain a variety of chemicals that can have both positive and negative effects on health. Here are some key details about these products:

Chemicals in Manicure Products

• Acetone: used to remove nail polish, can cause skin and eye irritation
• Acetonitrile: used as a solvent, can cause skin and eye irritation
• Ethyl acetate: used as a solvent and thinner in nail polish, generally considered safe but can cause skin, eye, and nose/throat irritation with short-term exposure
• Butyl acetate: used as a solvent, generally considered safe but can cause skin and eye irritation with short-term exposure
• Phenyl bis (2,4,6-Trimethylbenzoyl) -phosphine oxide: used in nail dip manicure, has a positive effect on nail appearance
• Polymethyl Methacrylate: used in artificial nails, can cause skin irritation
• Polyurethane Acrylate Oligomer: used in gel nail polish, can cause skin irritation
• Titanium Dioxide: used as a whitening agent, generally considered safe but can cause respiratory irritation with long-term exposure

Chemicals in Nail Polish

• Formaldehyde: a known carcinogen, can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions
• Toluene: can cause headaches, dizziness, and skin irritation
• Dibutyl phthalate (DBP): can cause reproductive and developmental harm

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates cosmetic products, including nail products, to ensure they are safe when used as intended. However, cosmetic ingredients (except most color additives) and products do not need FDA approval before they go on the market. Therefore, it is important to read the labels of cosmetic products and follow all instructions.

Some non-toxic nail polish brands that are vegan, cruelty-free, and/or gluten-free include:

• Zoya
• Ella + Mila
• Butter London
• Pacifica
• Mineral Fusion

In pedicure services, materials used are similar to those used in manicure services, but there are some unique materials used in pedicures such as toe separators, callus softeners, and foot soaks.

In summary, while some chemicals used in manicure and pedicure products can have negative effects on health, there are non-toxic alternatives available. It is important to read labels and follow instructions to ensure safe use of these products.