We tend to have bad habits that mistreat our nails. We try to pick things open with them; we scrape and scratch at things with them; we bite them and the list goes on. These are all habits we tend not to break despite our efforts. So, let’s try to control something we can, like our choice in nail polish brands.

There are many nail polishes out there nowadays that are “5-free”, but what does that mean anyways? 5-free polish doesn’t contain formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, toluene and the allergens camphor and formaldehyde resin.

These chemicals don’t have to sit on your nail to affect you, some of these can affect your lungs, cause headaches and other allergies. Formaldehyde helps nail polish to harden but can cause cancer when used extensively over long periods of time, which should be a cause of concern if you are a manicurist, or have your mani/pedis scheduled on the weekly. Dibutyl phthalate is what creates a glossy finish, but is a harmful chemical that can cause birth defects, pregnancy complications or loss of pregnancy. Toluene helps the polish dry faster and smoother, but is a neurotoxin, and long term exposure can cause serious nervous disorders and also reproductive harm. Formaldehyde resin, although a nail hardener, can cause contact dermatitis. And camphor, can cause nausea, dizziness and headaches when inhaled in large doses.

Continuing in our search for balance, Satnin Polish is one of many 5-Free brands out there today that is also cruelty free and made with hemp oil to aid in nail health. If you want a nail polish that assists you in staying away from these unpleasant chemicals, make the choice to wear nail polish that keeps you looking colorful and hot without the health backlash.

written by: Jessica Gil @satnin.polish

💜Love & Light☀️,
CRISTEN M. MILLS