Best Pregnancy-Safe Nail Polish for Expecting Moms
Maintaining a beauty routine during pregnancy can be a source of comfort and confidence for many expectant mothers. However, it’s crucial to prioritize safety, particularly when it comes to products like nail polish. Traditional nail products often contain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, and acetone, which can potentially pose risks to both the mother and the developing baby. Therefore, opting for safer alternatives or seeking out pregnancy-friendly nail polish brands can help ensure peace of mind.
Using conventional nail polish during pregnancy raises concerns due to the presence of toxic chemicals. Assessing the risks associated with these chemicals involves examining their potential absorption into the bloodstream and whether this absorption is significant enough to warrant caution during pregnancy.
Determining the safety of nail polishes during pregnancy isn’t a straightforward yes or no. According to Walnut Hill OBGYN, while traditional nail polish is generally considered safe during pregnancy, experts advise against using gel polishes and getting manicures. For those who prefer extra caution, it’s recommended to opt for nail polish brands that are free from dibutyl phthalate, toluene, and formaldehyde, commonly referred to as the “toxic trio.”
As a result, the demand for pregnancy-safe alternatives has surged, providing expecting moms with the opportunity to indulge in self-care without compromising on safety.
By opting for pregnancy-safe nail polish, expecting moms can minimize their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and reduce the risk to their unborn babies.
Understanding Fingernail Polish and Pregnancy
Despite their appearance as a strong barrier, nails are surprisingly porous. According to dermatologist Dr. Loretta Davis “your nails are really porous, about 1,000 times more permeable to water than neighboring skin”. It’s important to recognize that the absorption of each chemical varies depending on its molecular structure and differs from water.
There is limited research available regarding the effects of visiting nail salons during pregnancy. However, WebMD recommends taking precautionary measures, such as wearing masks and enhancing ventilation for salon staff, to minimize potential risks.
The use of traditional nail polish during pregnancy raises concerns due to the presence of harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate. Harvard research suggests that these chemicals can permeate through the nails into the bloodstream, potentially impacting fetal development. Additionally, there is a higher risk of these chemicals causing contact dermatitis. Although the exact amount of absorption and its potential negative health effects are uncertain, inhaling these toxins also poses a risk.
Let’s dive deeper into the research findings behind “the toxic trio” and explore the importance of opting for pregnancy-safe nail polish.
Toluene
The study conducted by the Department of Toxic Substance Control (DTSC) highlights toluene as a solvent that remains liquid at room temperature and easily evaporates into the air. Its primary route of exposure from nail products is through inhalation of its vapors. Toluene has been found to exceed California regulatory standards in the air of nail salons.
Research published in the Journal of Reproductive Toxicology corroborates these concerns, highlighting the inhalation of airborne toluene as a significant source of human exposure.
Prenatal exposure to toluene found in regular nail polish has been associated with adverse birth outcomes, including growth restriction, low birth weight, and preterm birth. The potential risks are especially relevant in non-ventilated salons, where there is a heightened risk of inhaling these harmful toxins.
Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
The DTSC emphasizes that dermal exposure is the primary route of human exposure to dibutyl phthalate (DBP) from nail products. DBP, along with other phthalates, is known to contribute to anti-androgenic (hormone-disrupting) effects observed in animal studies and has been associated with certain male birth defects when exposure occurs during pregnancy. Considering these risks, choosing phthalate-free nail polish is a wise decision.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde, commonly used as a hardening agent and preservative in nail strengtheners has been flagged by the National Cancer Institute as a potential carcinogen when its fumes are inhaled. While its presence in nail products has decreased over time, concerns persist due to its association with health risks.
Studies published in the National Library of Medicine suggest that exposure to formaldehyde during pregnancy may elevate the risk of miscarriage and developmental abnormalities in newborns. However, research on the dermal absorption of this chemical ingredient from nail products remains limited, leaving some uncertainties about its potential effects. As such, caution is advised when using nail products containing formaldehyde, particularly during pregnancy, until further research provides clearer insights into its risks.
Can I Paint My Nails While Pregnant?
Concerns about nail care during pregnancy often revolve around the safety of popular options like acrylic and gel nails, as well as determining the importance of pregnancy-safe nail polish.
According to insights from Webmd, it might be wise to steer clear of gel nails during pregnancy as they involve stronger chemicals for extended durability. The process of removing gel nails often involves soaking them in nail polish remover like acetone, and the effects of the UV light used to cure the nails haven’t been extensively studied for safety during pregnancy.
Acrylic nails, on the other hand, are often seen as a safer alternative, primarily because they don’t require exposure to UV light during the curing process, unlike gel nails. However, the downside of acrylic nails is that they also often require soaking nail polish removers that contain harsh chemicals like acetone for their removal.
Is it safe to use acetone on nails during pregnancy?
Some studies suggest that elevated levels of airborne solvents, such as acetone in nail polish removers, may present risks during pregnancy. Exposure, particularly in the early stages, has been associated with miscarriage in specific environments, such as laboratories. However, it’s essential to recognize that research findings can vary.
Acetone has the potential to impact the developing nervous system of the fetus, potentially causing issues similar to those seen in fetal alcohol syndrome. These may include craniofacial abnormalities and learning difficulties. Animal studies have also hinted that prolonged or high-level exposure to organic solvents could increase the risk of birth defects or behavioral problems.
Now, to ensure a safe and enjoyable manicure experience, expecting moms have some options. Firstly, opt for well-ventilated areas when applying nail polish to minimize exposure to fumes. Also, steer clear of prolonged or excessive exposure to nail polish removers containing acetone like when removing gel nails or acrylic nails.
Pregnancy Nail Polish Brands to Consider
Pregnancy-safe nail polishes offer a safer alternative by excluding harmful chemicals from their formulations and often utilize safer alternatives such as water-based formulas or natural ingredients like plant-based resins.
Which nail polish is safe during pregnancy?
When considering pregnancy-safe nail polish options, several brands prioritize safety and quality. Zoya, for instance, is renowned for its “Big 10-Free” formula, which excludes ten potentially harmful ingredients commonly found in nail polishes. Sally Hansen offers a vegan line called Pure, featuring a 16-free formula. Additionally, Ella+Milla provides vegan and cruelty-free options that are non-toxic, ensuring safety for use during pregnancy.
Note that according to the cut, this 10-free or 16-free is a marketing gimmick. As it turns out, these nail brands are one-upping each other with higher “free” numbers by including chemical ingredients like paraben-free that were never typically in nail polish.
Is OPI safe for pregnancy?
Yes and no, as it depends on which line of product you choose.
In order to check the safety of OPI during pregnancy, we used our pregnancy-safe ingredient checker app, available on both IOS and Android on their best selling Opi Nail Lacquer.
A quick examination of the ingredient list reveals the presence of Benzophenone-1. Surprisingly, some companies that market themselves as “7-free” and claim to be ‘non-toxic’ still incorporate Benzophenone-1 into their formulations. This chemical, commonly used as a UV blocker in sunscreen and cosmetics, can be found despite the marketing claims of being free from certain harmful ingredients.
While some studies published in the National Library of Medicine indicate that it is relatively harmless in small concentrations, others have associated it with ovarian cancer, and it has been detected in human placental tissue. This ingredient is known to be rapidly absorbed by our bodies and can accumulate over time, meaning it builds up in our system. However, the precise impact of occasional nail polish containing this ingredient is not well studied.
For the reasons above, we at Little Bean have decided to include Benzophenone-1 as a medium-risky ingredient in our database. For more information on the safety of your beauty product, you can check out our previous blog on skin care ingredients to avoid when pregnant.
However, amidst these concerns, there’s a promising development. OPI recently introduced its inaugural line of plant-based, natural-origin nail lacquers, earning a 100% approval rating from Little Bean as it excludes any potentially harmful ingredients from our database. With comparable customer reviews and a slightly higher price point, it represents an ideal option for those who wish to continue using their favorite nail polish brand while erring on the side of caution during pregnancy.
Safest Nail Polish During Pregnancy
Several key factors should be considered when selecting the safest nail polish during pregnancy. Look for products labeled as “non-toxic” for added reassurance. Carefully examine ingredient labels, avoiding those containing harmful chemicals such as “the toxic three”.
Utilizing our pregnancy-safe ingredient checker can provide an extra layer of protection. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the dermal absorption from occasional nail polish application differs from daily lotion use, so these recommendations should be considered accordingly.
In addition to choosing pregnancy-safe nail polish, there are other steps expecting moms can take to protect their nail health during pregnancy. Keep nails trimmed and moisturized to prevent breakage and brittleness, and avoid using harsh chemicals or tools that could damage nails. By prioritizing safety and self-care, expecting moms can enjoy beautiful nails while safeguarding their health and the health of their unborn babies.
In conclusion, while the quest for pregnancy-safe nail polish brands is essential, it’s equally crucial to scrutinize individual product ingredient lists. Opting for well-ventilated areas during application and avoiding prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals like acetone in nail polish removers can further enhance safety. While certain brands market their “free-from” formulations, it’s essential to discern marketing claims from actual safety benefits. When considering nail enhancements like acrylic and gel nails, thorough research is advised to fully understand the associated risks.
Little Bean’s pregnancy-safe ingredient checker app can assist in navigating these complexities, ensuring a balance between style and safety. Ultimately, by prioritizing nail health and selecting wisely, expecting moms can savor moments of self-care without compromising their well-being or that of their precious bundles of joy.
Sources:
Beauty Myths for Pregnant Women | Walnut Hill OBGYN
How Safe is My Manicure—Really?| Health Augusta University
What to Know About Manicures, Pedicures, and Pregnancy | WebMD
Reproductive and developmental toxicity of toluene | Environmental Health Perspectives
Association between formaldehyde exposure and miscarriage in Chinese women | NCBI
Can my pregnant patient keep her job at the nail salon? | Mount Sinai
