Some Nail products are known to contain toxic chemicals, such as dibutyl phthalate (DBP), toluene, and formaldehyde, that are health and safety concerns. DBP and toluene are known as developmental toxins. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. These three chemicals are commonly called the “toxic-trio”. They have been at the center of ongoing public attention over nail product safety, and potential health risks. A small number of nail product manufacturers claim to have removed some or all toxic-trio chemicals from their goods, but tests have shown some of those claims to be false.
Among many potentially toxic chemicals, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), toluene and formaldehyde are at the center of ongoing public attention. It has been recognized that exposure to these chemicals is associated with cancer, birth defects, asthma, and other chronic health conditions.
One of the three toxins, the aromatic solvent toluene, can irritate the eyes, throat and lungs, damage the nervous system and potentially harm an unborn child. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), which keeps polish from becoming brittle, also can cause reproductive harm. Formaldehyde, a nail hardener also used in a wide variety of products including air fresheners and the Brazilian Blowout hair straightener, is a known carcinogen. The European Union banned the use of DBP in cosmetics in 2004 and a 2006 public campaign put pressure on the $6 billion nail care products industry to make formula changes.
In recent months, you have probably heard news stories questioning the safety of certain beauty products in terms of both consumer and salon use. Among the types of products discussed have been hair dye and shampoo, lipstick and mascara, antiperspirants and deodorants, perfume, and nail polish – major segments of the beauty industry.
The Art of Hair uses OPI brand nail laquer products. OPI is committed to the safety of their consumers and of Beauty Professionals, and emphasizes that the manufacturer produces products that have always been safe, OPI has taken the unprecedented step of reformulating its Nail Lacquers, Nail Treatments, and Nail Hardeners to remove some of the ingredients that have been the topic of recent discussion.
Since 2006, OPI has reformulated its entire line of Nail Lacquers, Nail Treatments, and Nail Hardeners to eliminate DBP (dibutyl phthalate) and Toluene. Formaldehyde has never been an ingredient in OPI Nail Lacquers or Nail Treatments.