Toxic Trio

Three chemicals of particular concern are toluene, formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), also known as the “Toxic Trio”.  Toluene creates a smooth finish across the nail and keeps the pigment from separating in the bottle, and can negatively impact the central nervous system, cause irritation of the eyes, throat and lungs, and is a possible reproductive toxin.  Formaldehyde, a nail-hardening agent, is also a volatile chemical that evaporates into the air of salons and is known to cause cancer. Exposure to DBP, which is added to polishes to provide flexibility and a moisturizing sheen, can affect thyroid function has been linked to reproductive problems and decreased sperm count in adult men.  Although many manufacturers have began to remove the toxic trio from their polishes, some still have not.

Check out the video below to learn more about the Toxic Trio!