As a beauty expert with a focus on nail care, I've always been passionate about promoting products that are safe and healthy for consumers. When it comes to nail polishes, the market has evolved significantly over the years, with a growing demand for products that are free from harmful chemicals.
Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, is one of the substances that many people are now actively avoiding in their nail care routines.

In the past, the term "three-free" was the benchmark for identifying nail polishes that were considered safer, as they did not contain formaldehyde, toluene, or dibutyl phthalate. However, as consumers and the industry have become more aware of the potential risks associated with other ingredients, the definition of a safe nail polish has expanded.

Formaldehyde resin, also known as resin, is a substance used to harden nail polish.
Camphor is often used in nail polish as a solvent, while ethyl tosylamide and xylene are added for their fast-drying properties. All of these ingredients have raised concerns due to their potential health risks.

Now, many brands have responded to this demand by creating formaldehyde-free nail polishes that also avoid these additional harmful ingredients. These are often referred to as "five-free" or "ten-free" polishes, depending on the number of harmful substances they exclude from their formulations.

When looking for formaldehyde-free nail polishes, consumers should consider the following brands that are known for their commitment to safety and quality:


1. Zoya - Known for their long-wearing, big-five-free polishes.

2. Gelato Gelato - Offers a range of ten-free nail polishes with vibrant colors.

3. SPARITUAL - A brand that combines natural ingredients with nail care.

4. Ella + Mila - Focuses on providing nail polishes that are free from harmful chemicals.

5. Smith & Cult - Known for their fashion-forward colors and clean formulations.

It's important to read the labels carefully and do some research on the brand's commitment to safety. Look for certifications such as the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) or EWG Verified, which can provide additional assurance that the product has been vetted for safety.

In conclusion, the quest for formaldehyde-free nail polishes is part of a larger movement towards healthier beauty and personal care products. By choosing polishes that are free from harmful chemicals, consumers can enjoy beautiful nails while also protecting their health.

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In the world of nontoxic nail polish, three-free polishes (meaning formulas that contain no formaldehyde, toluene, or dibutyl phthalate) used to be the gold standard. But then we started wising up to other potentially harmful ingredients, like formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, and xylene.read more >>