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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Wisconsin chapter.

I am not alone when I say there is something refreshing and exciting about clean, freshly painted nails. Not only can getting your nails done be a fun leisurely activity, but it truly contributes to the cohesiveness and completion of an outfit. However, experts have looked closer at the ingredients found in this beauty enhancer and how they may affect our bodies (Care2; ewg). The general consensus on the matter is rather alarming and has caused me to question the nail polish brands I use.

One of the chemicals in question is Triphenyl Phosphate, TTP. This chemical is why the color sticks on your nail. But, when TTP isn’t being used for nail polish production, its primary function is to help make products inflammable. The connection between these two entirely different products is what made researchers raise their eyebrows about the possible hazards of nail polish on the body. As of now, the research is inconclusive, but there is concern that this chemical can cause changes in hormone regulation, metabolism and reproductive system (Wellness Mama; Reader’s Digest).

 

Unfortunately, it isn’t just one chemical in question; it is a handful of chemicals. For example, toluene, dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and formaldehyde are all ingredients found in nail polish that could be harming our bodies. Brands may say they are  “3-free” or “9-free” meaning that they exclude a few harsh chemicals, but it may not be enough.

 

Does this mean we should boycott nail polish? No, although it does mean you should take a couple brands off your shopping list and replace them with a few new ones. Luckily, there are several brands that are dedicated to producing more organic nail polishes, it just takes time and patience to find them and adjust your shopping patterns.

Nail Polish Brands to Add to Your Shopping List:

 

1. Zoya

2. Piggly Paint

 

3. Honeybee Gardens

 

4. LVX

 

5. Acquarella

 

Nail Polish Brands to Take Off Your Shopping List:

  1. Sally Hansen

  2. Essie

  3. Revlon

  4. Milani

  5. OPI

  6. Butter London

  7. Wet N’ Wild

 

It can seem overwhelming to research every product you purchase — but it is necessary!   Be careful using some common nail polish brands, and try switching to some of these options with fewer amounts of harmful chemicals.

 

Elizabeth Parker is a freshman at the University of Wisconsin- Madison. Although her academic path is ambiguous, she is passionate about education, films, and self-love. You can find her reading a book at the Olbrich Madison Botanical Gardens or practicing yoga in her free time. Elizabeth enjoys spending time with friends, playing card games, and learning new things. Elizabeth hopes to educate her viewers with valuable information whether it be from savvy saving techniques to the best films for your lazy Sundays. You can follow Elizabeth's ever-changing college experience through her Instagram! (@lyzzi_parker)
Hannah, originally from Milwaukee, WI is a Campus Correspondent for HC Wisconsin.  Hannah is a Senior and is studying Political Science and Psychology.  She aspires to work in health policy and will run for office one day.  She is never seen without a cup of coffee in hand and loves to eat any food in sight, especially sushi.  Outside of school, Hannah frequents Badger sporting events and likes to hang out with her friends on the weekends finding new things to do and new places to eat.  Hannah also runs her own Mary Kay business and is obsessed with keeping up with the latest makeup trends! This will be her seventh semester on the Her Campus team, and she loves the org more and more each semester!  It is Hannah's favorite thing that she is involved in on campus and highly recommends anyone with an interest in writing, journalism, or blogging to get involved, you won't regret it! On Wisconsin!!