Top Non-Toxic Nail Polish: 22 Options for Healthy, Stylish Nails (2024)

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Having a lovely mani and pedi is one of the best things about life.

But did you know that this little luxury carries quite significant health risks?

Fortunately, there’s a way to ensure that your nail game stays slaying while curbing potential risks.

The answer? Non-toxic nail polish.

Check out 22 of the top options out there.

What Is Non-Toxic Nail Polish?

Also called clean nail polish, non-toxic nail polish is nail polish that does not contain ingredients that are considered harmful to human health.

You can recognize non-toxic nail polish by the phrase “X-free” on its label, where X is the number of harmful ingredients found in most nail polish products.

Common Toxic Ingredients Found in Nail Polish

Toxic ingredients in nail polish include — but are not limited to — the following:

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is among the most common ingredients in many nail products, as it is a preservative, antimicrobial agent, and nail hardener.

However, it has been recognized as a potentially cancer-causing substance by the National Cancer Institute.

Additionally, formaldehyde can cause allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with formaldehyde allergies.

Toluene

Toluene helps nail polish glide on smoothly and evenly, but prolonged exposure to this substance can lead to the following health issues:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Dry or cracked skin
• Throat, skin, eyes, nose, or lung irritation
• Potential liver and kidney damage

It is also especially risky for pregnant women, as being exposed to it may cause premature delivery, congenital malformations, and other neonatal effects.

Dibutyl Phthalate

Preventing nail polish from getting brittle, dibutyl phthalate as a plasticizer can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat. Also, it can lead to nausea, headaches, vomiting, and dizziness.

And like toluene, it may also damage your liver and kidneys or, if you’re pregnant, harm your baby.

Camphor

Camphor gives nail polish its gloss.

However, when inhaled at large doses, it can trigger headaches, nausea, and dizziness.

Triphenyl Phosphate

Another plasticizer that makes nail polish more durable and flexible, triphenyl phosphate (or TPHP) is associated with possible endocrine disruption, which means it can interfere with the body’s hormone levels.

While studies on its effects on humans are limited, the literature nevertheless posits that it can negatively impact thyroid levels.

Parabens

Used as preservatives in nail polish products (and also considered among the most toxic skincare ingredients), parabens are considered potentially harmful to healthy immune system function and metabolism.

Also, it might increase your risks for obesity, high blood sugar, allergies, and cancer, among other effects.

Xylene

Xylene keeps nail polish from becoming sticky; when inhaled, it can get absorbed very quickly by the lungs and trigger headaches, dizziness, and nausea.

Also, it might cause allergies — and even cancer, and a whole lot of other potential health problems, from breathing difficulties and other lung issues to liver and kidney damage.

Ethyl Tosylamide

Another plasticizer and film-former, ethyl tosylamide is believed to contribute to antibiotic resistance due to its antibiotic properties.

Its use in cosmetics is banned in Europe for this reason and also because it can cause allergic reactions.

Types of Non-Toxic Nail Polish

Toxic-free nail polish comes in various X-free formulations.

Some of the most common of them are as follows:

• 3-free: Formulated without the “toxic trio”: formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate
• 5-free: Formulated without formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, and camphor
• 7-free: Formulated without formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, camphor, xylene, and triphenyl phosphate/ethyl tosylamide/parabens
• 9-free: Formulated without formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, camphor, xylene, and triphenyl phosphate, ethyl tosylamide, and parabens

Other nail polish products brand themselves as 10-free, 16-free, and even 21-free.

These labels mean that in addition to the toxic substances covered above, they are free from other harmful ingredients, which might include the following:

• Acrylamide, a carcinogen
• Airborne carbon black, a carcinogen
• Benzophenone, a carcinogen and hormone disruptor
• BHA, a carcinogen
• Cocamide DEA, a carcinogen

Why Should You Opt for Non-Toxic Nail Polish?

So why do you need to bother with non-toxic nail polishes?

Here are a few reasons that may compel you.

Safer for Your Health

Choosing a non-toxic fingernail polish over a regular one helps you avoid the potential risks that come with known toxic substances.

But even if you don’t think cancer or organ damage is an immediate possible effect of traditional nail products because they’re not ingested or applied to the skin in copious amounts, they do make your nails weaker and more brittle.

Formaldehyde, for instance, initially makes your nails harder by grouping protein chains together.

But over time, it can make them brittle and contribute to a greater risk of your nails lifting off your nail beds.

In stark contrast, some clean nail polish products are infused with oils that nourish your nails with vitamins and minerals to help strengthen them.

Additionally, non-toxic nail polish is safer for those with sensitive skin.

Safer for the Environment

Once discarded, traditional nail polish products and removers are considered hazardous waste. They discharge toxic waste into the soil.

Nail products also release volatile organic compounds or VOCs like the previously mentioned toluene and formaldehyde into the environment.

While VOCs are not greenhouse gases, they still contribute to global warming.

VOCs, when released into the air and combined with gases like nitrogen oxide, react to sunlight to create ground-level ozone, which is the third most significant greenhouse gas after carbon dioxide and methane.

Non-toxic nail polish products, on the other hand, feature low-VOC formulations that are not as dangerous to the environment or our health.

On top of these two benefits, non-toxic nail polish looks and performs just as well as traditional nail polish!

22 Non-Toxic Nail Polish You Need in Your Glam Bag

Keen to start shopping?

Check out our list of the top 22 non-toxic nail polish products.

Deep plum with a glossy finish, this Essie nail polish in the shade of Bahama Mama is perfect for upping the wow factor of your manicure!

Since 2021, all Essie nail polishes have been 8-free, and this one is no exception.

This means that it doesn’t contain formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, and triphenyl phosphate.

And the best part? You don’t have to compromise on quality!

This polish offers amazing color payoff, and it can last for up to six days!

If you want a nail polish that takes being non-toxic seriously, go for one from the 786 Breathable line; it features products free of not only three, five, or seven chemicals — but 11!

These are formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, DBP, xylene, TPHP, methylisothiazolinone, MEHQ/HQ, and parabens.

And this particular polish looks stunning too.

Inspired by its namesake, it has a metallic gold color with opaque coverage. It also dries quickly and doesn’t leave a yellowish stain on the nails when it’s removed.

If you’re looking for a non-toxic natural nail polish, Nailtopia offers a plant-derived formulation that is free of any toxic substances.

And this shade, Green Goddess, has a refreshing avocado green color that looks stunning with any skin tone!

This nail polish also features bio-sourced ingredients such as raspberry, blueberry, spinach, and orange extracts that promote strong, well-nourished nails.

Among the most recognizable non-toxic nail polish brands, Orly’s range of products is 12-free. This means that they are free from a bunch of toxic substances like the toxic trio, parabens, camphor, and more.

And they do that without compromising on product performance!

This polish in the shade Stronger Than Ever offers intense color payoff with a ruby red hue that flaunts tiny flecks of gold, and it doesn’t chip or peel easily either.

Plus, it contains a blend of hydrating ingredients, letting you enjoy the benefits of holistic beauty.

OPI’s Nature Strong range of nail polish boasts up to 75% naturally sourced formulation that allows them to create products that are 9-free.

This means you don’t get all the nasty stuff like parabens, camphor, and toulene; instead, you have plant-based ingredients that nourish your nails as they make them pretty.

Even the glitter in this shade is made of cellulose from sustainably farmed eucalyptus trees!

What’s more, the gorgeous color stays on for up to a week.

Another wonderful option on our list, this 20-free nail polish from Revlon means that it’s free of formaldehyde, parabens, and 18 other toxic ingredients.

Not only that, this shade — Basic — offers color payoff that is actually anything but basic! It only needs one coating to achieve full, rich coverage and stays on for about a week.

That’s not all. This nail polish also features shea butter, spinach, avocado, and green tea that nourish and care for your nails.

With a cool blue-green hue, this polish comes from Karma Organic’s range of quick-drying, non-toxic polish products that are 7-free. This means it does not contain the toxic trio, camphor, parabens, and others.

It also features a glossy finish to make your nails stand out, no matter the weather!

And for effortless application, it dries quickly and doesn’t streak easily, so it’s great even for beginners.

It’s resistant to chipping and yellowing too! Plus, it comes in recyclable packaging. Talk about doing it all!

Another one from an established brand, this polish in the shade Kiss Me, I’m Kind leverages the same 12-free formulation that makes it a perfect choice for those who are into clean cosmetics.

The only difference with the other Orly product in our list is that this goes on sheer (even at two coats) but turns opaque with a third layer. So you can apply and style it as you see fit!

It’s also breathable, which means that your nails can stay healthy and hydrated while looking great for days!

This Buttery Nude shade from Sundays is ideal for elevating any kind of look.

A 10-free product, it’s free of harmful ingredients like parabens, camphor, plasticizers, and preservatives, giving you beautiful nails without the potential side effects.

And it’s extremely durable. In fact, some users said that this lasted for two months on their nails!

Another beautiful shade from 786 Cosmetics, this 11-free alternative to traditional nail polish blends top-notch performance with a less toxic formulation.

Free from the horrors that come from substances like formaldehyde, camphor, and others, it offers a breathable option that keeps your nails healthy and lovely.

And this shade, which is inspired by the lavender hues in the city it was named after, is a long-lasting, quick-drying product that glides on smoothly and offers great color payoff!

With a 7-free formula, this holographic nail polish from INLP in the shade You Up? features a rich navy blue hue dotted with holographic flakes in different sizes.

These flakes are fully visible even through the product’s opaque coverage, which means that you don’t just get durable, long-lasting nails — you’ll also get ones that will dazzle everyone you meet!

And it’s easy to apply and remove, helping you nail that nail game every single time.

Established over 10 years ago in New York, Tenoverten is committed to delivering products with clean, transparent, and eco-friendly formulations.

Take this Austin shade, for instance; it offers a muted blue hue with an effortlessly cool vibe and provides long wear while also being 8-free, which means it doesn’t have a host of toxic ingredients like toluene and formaldehyde.

And with its mix of nourishing ingredients, it’s also hydrating for your nails.

Considered to be one of the top non-toxic nail polish options out there, Ella + Mila doesn’t create just any non-toxic product; they make 17-free polish products.

This means that their range of offerings is virtually devoid of anything that may be potentially harmful. Everything in their catalog is also vegan and cruelty-free — as certified by PETA and Leaping Bunny!

And they never sacrifice polish performance for safety! Ella’s Pick is a pink-coral number that is so pigmented you’ll only need one coat.

If you want something that has been wowing people since 1986, look no further than Zoya, which has a range of 10-free products in various colors.

Zoya is also cruelty-free and vegan, so you can feel confident knowing that no living creature suffered to make sure you look that good.

And their nail polish products have great staying power!

In fact, painting your nails with the Zoya Nail Polish in Lola gives you chip-free, lovely-looking nails with an electrifying fuschia color for up to two weeks.

Another popular brand, Sally Hansen jumped into the clean beauty rage with their range of 15-free nail polish products formulated to blend eco-friendly sensibilities with great performance.

This nail polish, for instance, features sustainable ingredients like bamboo and marine algae for holistic nail care — while also offering a light lychee hue with incredible staying power!

A mani with this pinkish-red nail polish guarantees up to a week of chip-free and beautiful nails.

For a silky, glittery bronze hue that amps up the glamor of your nails without sacrificing their health, try the Beach Bronze shade by Karma Organics.

It boasts of the same all-natural formulation that is devoid of toxic ingredients like formaldehyde, parabens, and others.

At the same time, this nail polish is mood-changing (so it features subtle variations in color according to the lighting), quick-drying, and high-performing.

That means that you won’t have to sacrifice quality for something that is safe and healthy.

And it’s perfect for both adults and children! The brand even says that it’s safe for pregnant women.

Another popular brand that has been featured in many a magazine, Côte’s nail polish products are 10-free; they do not contain icky and dangerous harmful ingredients.

And this polish is no exception! With its beautiful brown color, it’s also a wonderful example of form and function.

Additionally, it’s long-wearing, quick-drying, and chip-resistant. Application is also easy and hassle-free with its well-designed applicator.

Orly’s range of nail polish products is so good we just had to include one more option in our list. This one, in the shade Love My Lips, is a true bright red for a standout red manicure.

And true to the brand’s formulation, this product is 12-free, so you don’t need to worry about being exposed to things that may harm your health — and the environment!

Love My Lips also has a super rich and pigmented formula, needs no base coat or top coat, and lasts for a long time. Wins all around!

Another 10-free formula, Jolie Vegan is free of toxic substances that may be detrimental to your health.

This nail polish, just like its whole range, reflects their commitment to vegan and cruelty-free beauty without compromising on product performance and quality.

And it has a beautiful milky white color that can give you a sleek and pristine white manicure.

Never Apologize is easy to apply too. It doesn’t chip and peel quickly, and it can last for about a week.

Created by a mom for her children, Piggy Paint grew into a trusted brand with a huge public (and celebrity!) following, owing to their non-toxic and water-based formulas.

And this pink nail polish, which gives off strong Barbie vibes, is all-free — like all of their products.

This means that they do not contain any harmful ingredients like parabens, formaldehyde, toluene, and camphor.

As such, it’s safe for everyone — including toddlers and breastfeeding moms!

With a proprietary nail nourishment formulation that is infused with everything good, this 10 Free Nail Polish in Zinnia is the tiny perfect package that you need for healthy nails that slay.

It’s also 16-free, which means that it’s devoid of anything bad.

Instead, it uses high-quality pigments and plant-sourced ingredients that not only contribute to a rich color payoff that can last beyond 10 days but also rehydrate and strengthen brittle nails.

Its vivid pink color also makes it an excellent choice for fun and feminine nail designs!

And it comes in sustainable packaging for a truly eco-friendly product.

Pacifica’s non-toxic nail polish set with blue-green nail polish, purple-and-silver shimmer polish, and silver glitter toppers is perfect as a gift for someone special.

You can also use it to create nail designs for special occasions such as a vacation.

The nail polish products feature shimmery finishes that won’t chip or peel for up to six days — and they’re guaranteed to win your absolute satisfaction with just two coats!

And the best part? They’re 16-free, so they’re guaranteed non-toxic.

Non-Toxic Nail Polish: Important Reminders

Now it’s important to remember that a nail polish brand’s or product’s claims of being non-toxic aren’t regulated by any governing body.

Additionally, some brands may swap out known toxic substances for alternatives that are not as recognized but may be equally as harmful.

For these reasons, you must be vigilant in choosing your non-toxic nail polish.

Remember these pointers:

• Always check the ingredient list to make sure that each ingredient is good for your health.
• Opt for brands that are transparent about their ingredients.
• Verify certification claims, especially for vegan and cruelty-free products.

FAQs

What If My Kids Eat Non-Toxic Nail Polish?

Ingesting nail polish, even the traditional kind, is considered safe in small amounts.

But if your child is vomiting or experiencing mouth and throat irritation, seek medical care.

Is There a Non-Toxic Nail Polish Remover?

Absolutely! You can find many acetone-free nail polish removers on the market today.

But as with non-toxic nail polish, it matters what they leave in as much as what they leave out so be sure to check the ingredients.

Choosing the Top Non-Toxic Nail Polish

With the number of options that you can choose from as to which non-toxic nail polish to buy, you’re sure to find something that best fits your budget and your specific needs.

Just invest time into researching your options so that you can make an informed decision. Check out formula inclusions, go on their website to get a feel for the brand, and read customer reviews.

And of course, let your experience lead. If you find that something feels off about a product, then it’s best to consider other alternatives that may be better.

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