Is It Safe To Use Nail Paints During Pregnancy?

Harmful chemicals such as toluene, formaldehyde, plasticizers, etc., can be present in nail polish. But a controlled use of nail polish, like once or twice a month is not going to be dangerous for you and your baby. However, for safety purposes, you may need to minimize skin contact and use a spoon and fork while eating. It is for pregnant women who work in a nail polish factory or in nail salons who need to be cautious as their profession demands a prolonged time span with the chemicals used in nail polishes. 

What Are The Chemicals Used in Nail Polish?

Studies have reported that some chemicals used in nail polishes can harm fetal development in case of direct contact or prolonged indirect toxicity. 

Such harmful chemicals present in nail polishes are:

Toluene

This chemical is used in nail polishes to give the smooth texture that you love so dearly. But inhaling this chemical for a long time can cause irritation in the eyes, throat, and lungs. It can also cause dizziness, nausea, and headaches. High exposure of the mother to this chemical can even lead to birth defects and nervous system defects in the baby. The European Union has already banned the use of this chemical for its toxic effects. 

Formaldehyde

This chemical is used in nail enamels as a preservative and hardener. Inhalation of the smell of this chemical can also irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can cause lung and nasal cancer. 

Dibutyl Phthalate

Dibutyl phthalate or short DBP is also used in nail polishes to create a smooth and even texture. This chemical makes the nail polish less prone to chips and cracks. The European Union also banned this chemical for its harmful impact on reproductive health. 

Together, these three chemicals are known as the “Big 3” and “toxic trio”. To avoid their harmful effects on your health you need to make sure the area is well-ventilated. It will be best to use a nail polish brand that does not use the “toxic trio”.

Which Nail Polish is Safe to Use?

You cannot completely avoid chemicals in nail polish. But you can choose between harmful ones or mild ones. Several brands now promise that they are not using the “toxic trio” in their nail polish. So next time you buy nail polish check the labels behind it. If the “Big 3” chemicals i.e. toluene, dibutyl phthalate, and Formaldehyde are not present in the nail polish, then it is safe to use during pregnancy. 

Top 5 Safety Tips to Use Nail Paints While Pregnant

Even if you use nail polish without the “toxic trio”, you need to follow a few precautionary tips to avoid any indirect harmful impact on your baby. Here are the top 5 safety tips you can follow while applying nail polish during pregnancy.

1. Keep The Doors And Windows Open

The area around you should be well-ventilated so you do not constantly inhale the smell of the chemicals used in your nail polish. If you are going for a nail spa make sure that your service provider knows that you are pregnant and ensure the air is circulating well in the room.

2. Avoid Skin Contact

Chemicals in nail polish do not largely transfer in your blood through your nails. But often while applying nail polish we spread it on the skin around the nails. Avoid direct skin contact and soap wash your hands after the nails get dry to remove any nail paint remaining on your skin.

3. Use It Occasionally

Avoid using nail paints all the time when you are pregnant. Use them occasionally. For instance, when you have a party to attend or a business meeting to represent. Instead of using it as a daily beauty enhancer, use it when you feel your look will be incomplete without it. 

4. Check The Expiry Date

Checking the expiry date before applying nail polish is very important. Using nail polish past its expiry date can increase the toxic reactions in your skin. 

5. Use Water-Based Odor-Free Nail Paints

Use branded nail paints that are free from harmful chemicals. Try water-based and odor-free nail paints. You can have vegan-friendly options too if you search well. 

Can You Use a Nail Polish Remover?

One thing that comes before and after nail polish is the nail polish remover. As whenever you want to create a new nail paint art you will need to remove the existing one. Nail polish removers contain acetone which is generally safe for you if used in a limited way. There is again not enough research about the harmful effects of acetone exposure in a domestic setting. Thus, though nail polish removers are generally safe during pregnancy, you also need to use them occasionally. 

So pregnancy does not totally deprive you of your manicure or pedicure sessions. But you will definitely have to minimize the number of sessions. If it is your habit to match your nails according to your regular outfits, then also you will have to change this habit during pregnancy. You can get your nails done occasionally by using nail polishes that are comparatively less toxic. There are 7-free, 10-free, and even 13-free brands that declare not only the harmful ingredients they ban but also the ingredients they chose to use. So choose what is best for you and your baby during pregnancy.  

FAQ’s

Is Regular Nail Polish Safer Than Gel Nail Polish?

Yes, regular nail polish is safer than gel nail polishes because of the removal process. You need to soak your fingertips in nail removers that contain acetone in the case of gel nail polishes whereas regular nail paints can be removed by some drops of nail removers in cotton.

Can I Work In A Nail Salon While Pregnant?

Yes, you can work in a nail salon while pregnant but you will need to take extra precautions. If you are working in a nail polish manufacturing company, dealing with chemicals, or working as a beautician in a salon then you need to ask for extra care and protection from your boss.