Nail polish is a go-to cosmetic for adding beauty and personality to your nails, but applying it well takes more than a steady hand.
To achieve a polished, professional look at home, it helps to understand the basics—from ingredients to proper application techniques.
What’s Inside Your Nail Polish
Nail polish contains a mix of chemicals that give it color, shine, and durability. Some are generally safe in small amounts, while others raise health and environmental concerns, especially with repeated exposure.
Key Components:
- Film-forming agents like nitrocellulose provide the shiny, solid coating.
- Plasticizers and resins help polish stay flexible and resist chipping (e.g., camphor, TPHP), though some may irritate or disrupt hormones.
- Solvents such as ethyl acetate make the polish spread easily and dry fast but can be irritating in unventilated areas.
- Pigments and colorants offer the desired shades and effects; glitters, however, may contain non-biodegradable microplastics.
- UV stabilizers like benzophenone-1 prevent fading but may act as endocrine disruptors.
Ingredients to Avoid:
Some ingredients in conventional nail polish have been linked to health risks. These include:
- Formaldehyde and its resin – carcinogenic and allergenic
- Toluene – affects the nervous system
- DBP (dibutyl phthalate) – linked to reproductive issues
- TPHP – suspected hormone disruptor
- Parabens, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene – potential irritants or banned in some places
Many brands now promote “X-Free” labels, such as 5-Free, 7-Free, or 10-Free, indicating how many of these chemicals they exclude. Safer options include polishes with mineral pigments, biodegradable glitter, and preservatives like phenoxyethanol.
Prepping Your Nails for Polish
Before painting, remove old polish with an acetone-free remover. Shape your nails with a file, soak and push back your cuticles, and cleanse your hands thoroughly. Applying a base coat protects your nails and helps the polish adhere evenly.
Choosing and Applying Nail Polish
Pick a color that suits your skin tone and occasion—neutrals for daily wear, bold tones for special events. Consider finish (glossy, matte, shimmer) and the formula’s drying time and chemical safety. During application, use thin layers and let each coat dry fully. A final top coat seals in color and adds shine. Don’t forget to “cap” the free edge to help prevent chipping.
Drying and Longevity Tips
Speed up drying with a quick-dry top coat or by dipping nails in cold water. Avoid heat, which can cause bubbling. For long-lasting wear, reapply top coat every few days, wear gloves during chores, and moisturize regularly.
Removing Polish Safely
Use a non-acetone remover and avoid harsh scrubbing. Press a soaked pad on the nail for a few seconds, then wipe gently. Follow up with cuticle oil or hand cream to restore moisture.
Potential Risks to Keep in Mind
- Harmful chemical exposure
- Nail weakening from overuse
- Staining without a base coat
- Infections from improper care
- Environmental harm from non-biodegradable ingredients
Conclusion
With the right knowledge, tools, and product choices, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy nails while minimizing risks to your body and the environment. A little care goes a long way in creating a flawless, long-lasting manicure.