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I've heard that manicures and pedicures are as addictive as cigarettes. A glossy red is very attractive now and then, but constantly having your nails painted, de-polished and then re-painted wreaks havoc on the environment. The varnishes and removers are loaded with highly toxic chemicals: Acetone, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde, or ethyl acetate. All of these can evaporate into the air that we breathe. They contaminate our water and kill off marine life.
Then there are the health concerns, which include cancer and birth defects. There's a reason nail technicians wear masks at work. Inhaling these chemicals is not the only problem, either. Our skin can absorb the toxins, allowing them to enter our bloodstreams. Indeed, there are a lot of the potentially hazardous products sitting in your make-up drawer.
How to Avoid Toxic Nail Polishes and Removers:
The first step to avoiding these dangerous toxins is finding products that are natural, non-toxic and not bad for your brain, organs, unborn child and the environment. There are many healthy alternatives in your local health food store. Some of the bigger names, like Revlon, have introduced some less harmful products that don't contain phthalates.
Alternately, you could nix polish all together. The aesthetic advantages to a more environmentally savvy nail regime may surprise you. When you cool it with all the polish, your nails actually become stronger, longer, and more durable. Your cuticles will thank you for not flooding them with harmful chemicals. Acetone and formaldehyde cause dryness and irritation to cuticle skin. Going without nail polish will keep you clear of removers and chemicals and start you down a path to a more natural, healthy look.
There is nothing sexier than a girl who is not fussy about her nails. All you need for your new au natural look is a file to maintain a good shape, a nail brush to remove the grime, and a little oil on the nail beds for a nice sheen.
These days, even models are going green. There is simply no reason to keep using beauty products that are harmful to your health and the environment.
Know Your Cosmetics Ingredients:
Lipstick Danger: Don't Let Lead Poison your Pout
Teenage Girls: Avoid these Hormone-Altering Cosmetics
Mercury... In Your Mascara?
Are You a Green Beauty?
Got a tip or a post idea for us to write about on Planet Green? Email pgtips (at) treehugger (dot) com.
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