The nail polish industry has become incredibly diverse. We have endless shades, creative designs, different textures and materials, and the opportunity to express our style in any way we want. Beautiful nails are a pleasant part of self-care, but behind all this variety there is one important aspect that often goes unnoticed: the safety of the ingredients we apply to our nails.

Not every polish on the market is harmless. Many standard formulas still contain chemicals that can weaken the nail plate, irritate the skin and, in some cases, influence the immune system or hormonal balance. These substances do not always cause instant reactions, which is why people tend to underestimate them, but their long-term effect can be more significant than it seems.

The most common toxins in traditional nail polish are dibutyl phthalate (DBP), toluene, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin and camphor. Each of them plays a specific role in making the product shiny, long-lasting or quick-drying, but all of them can negatively affect the body when used regularly. DBP is known for disrupting hormonal balance, toluene may cause headaches or dizziness, and formaldehyde can damage the nail plate and provoke allergic reactions. Camphor, although often considered less harmful, may still cause irritation and dryness if used frequently.

If you do your nails at a salon, it is essential to pay attention to the types of formulas they use. Look for salons that offer safer alternatives — at least 3-free, 5-free or ideally even higher clean standards. This protects not only you but also the technicians who work with these products every day. Choosing cleaner formulas does not mean sacrificing quality; on the contrary, many modern polishes maintain beautiful color, shine and durability without relying on aggressive chemicals.

If you prefer doing your nails at home, the safest approach is simply to read labels and choose polishes marked as non-toxic or free from the chemicals listed above. Today, many companies are moving toward more responsible formulas, so finding safer options is easier than ever. The important thing is to build awareness and make conscious decisions rather than choosing products just for the sake of color or trend.

Caring for your nails is not only about appearance. It is a part of your overall health. When you avoid unnecessary exposure to harmful ingredients, your nails stay stronger, your skin remains healthier and your self-care routine becomes more thoughtful and balanced. Choosing clean nail polish is a small change, but it can have a meaningful impact over time.