Sparkle & Smile

Blog for Cleaner and Healthier Homes

Healthy Body

Chemical Exposure and Nail Products

Did you ever wonder if that strong smell in nail salons is linked to toxins?  Before your next trip to the salon, consider the downside to the fumes you will be breathing in during your entire treatment, along with the plastic coating seeping into your body through your nail bed.

Nail products like nail polish, polish removers and artificial nail products contain many chemicals known to cause cancer, reproductive harm, asthma, and other negative health effects.

It is reported that almost all brands of commercial nail polish contain toluene and formaldehyde.  Many still contain Dibutyl Phthalate.


Toluene is a human reproductive and developmental toxin.  It can affect the nervous system with symptoms like tiredness, confusion, weakness, and memory loss.  It is thought to cause liver damage and skin irritation.  In high levels, it can affect the kidneys. 

Formaldehyde is a carcinogen and a common indoor air pollutant because its resins are used in many construction materials.  Inhaling the fumes can result in watery eyes, headache, burning in the throat and labored breathing.

Dibutyl Phthalate.  Phthalates are used to soften plastic, and are known to affect hormone function.  Studies have linked phthlates to early puberty in girls and low sperm counts in men.  Environmental groups claim phthalate exposure may contribute to the rising number of uterine problems in women and testicular cancer in men.  Repeated and heavy exposure to dibutyl phthalate may cause nausea, vomiting, tearing of the eyes, dizziness, and headache.  Long term exposures may cause damage to kidneys and liver, and may also harm a developing fetus.

A Natural Manicure:

Beauty does not have to be dangerous.  File, wash, and soak your nails.  Then soften, clean, and shape the cuticles.  Try soaking your nails in organic apple cider vinegar or simple warm water, and apply almond oil to the cuticle area.  Buff with several fine grade buffing files (on dry nails and always in one direction).  Moisturize your hands.

Maid Brigade House Cleaning Services cares about your health.  For more information on healthy green living, please log on to greencleancertified.com or maidbrigade.com.

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