Many nail polish brands contain some of the most toxic and harmful chemicals. Mavala Nail Polishes are worry free – they contain no formaldehyde, no phthalate and no toluene. Here we will explain the ‘13 Free’, 13 of the chemicals that are not included in Mavala nail polishes, base coats and top coats.
Phthalate Free (Dibutyl Phthalate – DBP Free)
DBP is used as a solvent in many nail polish brands, and according to David Suzuki, a genetic scientist, academic and environmentalist, it has been classified by the EU as a suspected endocrine disruptor which can create reproductive problems. Although phthalates have been banned in children’s toys in many parts of the world, according to the FDA, its use in cosmetics is not yet restricted.
Toluene Free
Toluene is often used in nail polish as it can help to create a smooth finish, however it can cause skin irritations including dermatitis and the vapours can cause drowsiness, headaches and nose, throat and respiratory tract irritations.
Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde Resin Tosylamide Free
Formaldehyde is a common ingredient in many nail polish and nail hardeners. According to the FDA, Nail products that contain formaldehyde may cause skin irritation, as well as allergic reactions.
Paraben Free
Parabens are used in many cosmetics help curb bacterial growth and extend the shelf life of those products. However there is some concern as Parabens are considered potential endocrine disruptors and like Phthalates listed above, could cause reproductive problems.
Camphor Free
Camphor is used in some nail polishes as it functions as a fragrance ingredient and plasticizer. Fairly large oral doses of Camphor are needed before adverse effects are observed however Choice Australia reports that government concerns about its effects in children and pregnant women led to camphor not being used in products sold in Denmark.
Xylene Free
Research has concluded that respiratory and eye irritation were the principal effects following short term exposure to Xylene. People with extended, long term exposure to this chemical by inhalation, could also be at risk to other long-term systemic illnesses.
Triphenyl Phosphate (TPHP) Free
Triphenyl phosphate, is used in many brands of nail polish. It is a hormone-disrupting chemical, and research has found the substance gets absorbed into the body every time nail polish is used.
Rosin Free
Rosin is obtained from coniferous trees especially pines. As it has a high allergenic potential, it is best to avoid this product.
Nickel Free
You may know that nickel is used in many pieces of jewellery but may not have realised that it is also an ingredient in many nail polishes and cosmetics. With nickel being the most common cause of metal allergy, when included in cosmetics and nail polish it can cause skin irritations and dermatitis.
All Mavala nail polishes, base coats and top coats allow nails to breathe. They contain a resin extracted from wood which adheres to the nail surface in the form of a flexible and resistant film which remains porous, allowing oxygen and water vapour to pass through the nail polish, to the nail plate. All of our nail polishes, base coats and top coats are worry free containing none of the 13 listed ingredients above, and are also cruelty free too.