Non-toxic nail polish

Clean nail polish from brands that list what their formulas are free from, with full ingredient lists.

What "non-toxic" and "7-free" mean for nail polish

There is no legal definition of "non-toxic" nail polish. What brands mean is the "free-from" count: the number of commonly criticized ingredients a formula leaves out. "3-free" was the first standard (no formaldehyde, toluene or DBP). Higher numbers add more to that list.

Lauren B. Beauty's polishes are 7-free. In the brand's own words they are made with "no formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, DBP, toluene or camphor, xylene, and TPHP", and they are vegan and made in California.

The shades we stock

Making a manicure last

  • Push back cuticles and wipe each nail with a little rubbing alcohol so polish grips a clean, oil-free surface.
  • Apply a base coat, then two thin coats of color rather than one thick one.
  • Seal the free edge of the nail with each coat, and finish with a top coat. Reapply top coat every two to three days.
  • Use acetone-free remover if your nails feel dry, and follow with a little cuticle oil.

For more clean color, see vegan makeup.

Questions

What does 7-free nail polish mean?

It means the formula leaves out seven ingredients. For Lauren B. Beauty these are formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, DBP, toluene, camphor, xylene and TPHP.

Is non-toxic nail polish actually non-toxic?

"Non-toxic" is not a regulated term for nail polish. The free-from count is a clearer way to compare formulas, and we list what each brand says it leaves out.

Is this nail polish vegan?

Lauren B. Beauty describes its polishes as vegan, and Pastel's polish is sold as vegan and cruelty-free.

How long does 7-free polish last?

It can last as long as conventional polish. A base coat, thin layers, capping the free edge and a fresh top coat every few days make the biggest difference.