Five Free Nailpolish
Five Free Nailpolish
“Five-free” is a term that the healthy beauty community has coined to mean that a nail polish formulation doesn’t contain five of the more toxic ingredients that some traditional colors use. Until more recently, concerns about the chemicals leaking into our bodies through our nails was minimal—after all, it was said, our nails aren’t living tissue, so we were protected.
At ODIVA we don’t want to compromise your health for beauty. Our nails are incredibly porous, especially when they’re wet, which can lead to polish ingredients sinking into our bodies via our finger and toenails. The skin and cuticles around our nails (you know, the parts that accidentally get swiped when you’re painting your dominant hand with your shakier, non-dominant hand) is also really sensitive and absorbent, and can let those toxins in.
Our 5-Free nail polishes also do not contain the following chemicals.
Dibutyl Phthalate
Dibutyl Phthalate is most commonly used as a plasticizer. It increases the plasticity of certain materials like PVC and concrete. Lab research has shown that DBP increases the chance of birth defects, and has even been added to California’s Proposition 65.
Formaldehyde Resin
Formaldehyde Resin is a derivative of the chemical, Formaldehyde. It’s used in the manufacturing processes for many paints and varnishes, and is also often used as a glue for leather products. While Formaldehyde isn’t typically as carcinogenic as the base chemical, it is a known allergen for many people.
Camphor
Camphor is a waxy and flammable solid found in the wood of camphor laurel, a large evergreen tree found in Asia. In addition to its distinct smell, small doses of camphor can cause increased heart rate, slower breathing, and flushing of the skin. In large doses, camphor can cause involuntary muscle spasms and to full out seizures.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde, while a naturally occurring chemical compound, is pretty unpleasant. It’s often used in the embalming process of dead organisms, as it slows down the post-mortem decay process. Formaldehyde has been described as a known human carcinogen by the US National Toxicology Program.
Toluene
Toulene is a colorless liquid that smells like paint thinner. It is often used for industrial purposes such as the manufacturing processes for things like paint, silicon sealants, and TNT. It’s also used to make gasoline more efficient. Inhalation of toluene in moderate amounts can cause tiredness, confusion, nausea, and even loss of color vision.
