Is it dangerous to use nail polish during pregnancy?

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Pregnancy can  be a stressful time for many women. While pregnant, a woman needs to take care of herself. Pregnant women can definitely experience plenty of manicures and pedicures to feel beautiful. However, nail polish may contain harmful chemicals that can pose problems for fetal development. In the past, nail polish has been linked to birth defects. Studies have proved that toxic chemicals present in nail polish can cause cancers, contact dermatitis and organ malfunctions. Thus it is advisable to avoid nail polish during pregnancy to protect the fetus.

What are the harmful ingredients used in Nail Polish?

Formaldehyde: This ingredient is used for firming nails. It has caused cancer in rats in laboratory tests. Pregnant women should avoid using nail polish containing this ingredient.

Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP): This component is mainly found in all plastic covers, shower curtains, hair sprays and nail polish and helps in enhancing elasticity. The ingredient may cause infertility in women. Moreover, it can lead to the miscarriage. Studies have found that DBP badly affects the uterine function. Male babies may be born with penis abnormalities and genital defects. This chemical can cause premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental problems. 

Toluene: This component is mainly used in gasoline and explosives (Trinitrotoluene or TNT). This ingredient can affect the nervous system of the fetus. It can cause birth-related complications such as reduced fetal weight, hearing impairment, congenital malformations, facial aberrations and renal problems.

How to wear Nail Polish safely while pregnant?

Apply the nail polish near a window or an open door, ensuring that the room has good ventilation. Apply only one coat of nail polish. Do not blow air after you apply nail polish. Keep your painted toe and finger nails away from your body. Follow the same precautions while removing the nail polish. After removing the nail polish, do not forget to wash your hands well with soap. 

What are the non-toxic Nail Polish brands?

There has been no conclusive test to determine whether applying of nail polish during pregnancy is safe or dangerous. So it is suggested that pregnant women must use natural water-based nail polishes which do not contain any harsh chemicals like phthalates and formaldehyde. There are some natural nail polishes brands that are easily available in the market such as Honeybee Gardens Nail Polish, Zoya Natural Polish and Suncoat Nail Polish. 

What is the latest news around toxic chemicals used in Nail Polish?

Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) has been banned by the European Union but is still prevalent in American products. Breast Cancer Fund in California has exerted immense pressure on cosmetic companies to exclude DBP from their product range. The March of Dimes Foundation, a United States nonprofit organization has clearly stated that harmful chemicals used in nail polish multiplies the risk of birth defects. The March of Dimes has requested pregnant women to avoid using nail polish and remover especially if their nails are split or brittle as harmful chemicals can get absorbed through your skin. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not concluded that nail polish is unsafe during pregnancy.

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