17 Best Non Toxic Nail Polish Brands in the UK
This blog post is all about non-toxic nail polish!
Disclosure: This post may contain some affiliate links, which means if you shop through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting The Style Cycle Blog.
17 Best Non Toxic Nail Polish Brands UK
Don’t you love it when your nails feel colourful and fresh?
I would love to have my nails done in nail salons, but I often paint my own nails with regular nail polish or stick with my natural nails. I’ve also had gel polish a few times but my nails are so weak afterwards and I don’t think using the UV light on our hands is a good idea.
There is a growing number of health-conscious women and with that comes an awareness of the environmental and health impacts of traditional nail polish.
Traditional nail polish often contains many toxic chemicals, from dibutyl phthalate to formaldehyde resin which pose risks to our health and contribute to hazardous waste when disposed of.
I tend to worry about my health and I am conscious about what beauty products I use on my body so a worry-free manicure is something I love.
Don’t worry though, the good news is I have made a list of 17 best non-toxic nail polish for you to choose from.
Image: Nail polish by myself
Is there any nail polish that isn’t toxic?
Yes! Different brands offer non-toxic formulas, free from harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional nail polishes.
These non-toxic nail polishes are often referred to as “5-free,” “7-free,” “10-free,” or even “13-free,” indicating the number of potentially harmful ingredients they are formulated without.
What are the most harmful chemicals found in nail polish?
- Formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen and respiratory irritant.
- Toluene is a solvent that can cause dizziness, headaches, and nausea.
- Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) is a plasticiser linked to hormone disruption and reproductive issues.
- Formaldehyde resin derives from formaldehyde that can cause skin irritation.
- Camphor is a potential skin irritant and respiratory toxin.
- Ethyl Tosylamide which can cause allergic reactions.
- Xylene is a solvent that can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
- Parabens are preservatives linked to hormone disruption.
- Triphenyl Phosphate (TPHP) again is linked to hormone disruption.
- Benzophenone-1 which is a UV filter that may cause skin irritation.
The best nail polish brands prioritise safer ingredients and may include nourishing ingredients like vitamins, minerals, and plant-based oils to promote healthier nails.
What is the healthiest type of nail polish?
The healthiest type of nail polish is typically considered non-toxic or “clean” nail polish, formulated without potentially harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional nail polishes. Clean nail polishes prioritise best practices and safer ingredients and are less likely to cause adverse health effects or irritations.
Here are some characteristics of the healthiest types of nail polish:
Non-toxic nail polish formulas
Healthier nail polishes are often labelled as “5-free,” “7-free,” “10-free formula” or “13-free,” indicating the number of harmful chemicals they are formulated without. A 3-free nail polish is therefore formulated without the main 3 chemicals. Often referred to as the ‘toxic trio’ including dibutyl phthalate, toluene and formaldehyde which are known to cause headaches and dizziness.
Natural and organic ingredients
Some clean nail polish brands use natural and organic ingredients, such as plant-based oils, minerals, and vitamins, to nourish and strengthen the nails while providing colour. These ingredients are less likely to cause adverse reactions or harm the body.
Breathable formulas
Some clean nail polishes feature breathable formulas that allow oxygen and water vapour to pass through the polish, promoting healthier nails and reducing the risk of moisture-related issues like brittleness and discolouration.
Cruelty-free and vegan nail polish
Many clean nail polish brands are vegan-friendly and cruelty-free, meaning they do not contain animal-derived ingredients and zero animal testing. This aligns with ethical and sustainable principles and ensures the products are safe for all users.
Low odour
Healthier nail polishes often have a milder scent than traditional nail polish, as they are formulated without strong and smelly chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene. This can make the application process more pleasant and reduce potential respiratory irritation.
What is the least toxic nail polish remover?
The least toxic nail polish removers are typically formulated without harsh chemicals and instead rely on natural, non-toxic ingredients to effectively remove nail polish. These alternatives prioritise safer ingredients that are less likely to cause skin irritation, dryness, or damage to the nails.
Here are some options for the least toxic nail polish removers:
Acetone-Free Formulas
Acetone is a common ingredient in traditional nail polish removers but can be harsh and dry to the nails and skin. I like to look for acetone-free formulas, which use gentler solvents like ethyl acetate or isopropyl alcohol to dissolve nail polish without stripping the nails of moisture.
Plant-Based Ingredients
Many natural nail polish removers contain plant-based ingredients such as soybean oil, lavender oil, and aloe vera extract. These ingredients are known for their moisturising and nourishing properties and can help protect the nail beds and cuticles from dryness and damage.
Non-Toxic Solvents
Opt for nail polish removers free from toxic chemicals such as acetone, formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates. These ingredients can harm your health and cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and other adverse effects with prolonged exposure. No wonder I always had headaches whilst doing my nails!
Water-Based Formulas
Water-based nail polish removers are another non-toxic option and gentler on the nails and skin. These removers typically contain ingredients like water, glycerin, and plant-based solvents to effectively remove nail polish without drying out the nails or cuticles.
Low Odour
Choose nail polish removers with a mild or no odour, as strong-smelling solvents can irritate the respiratory system and may cause headaches or nausea. I like to look for products labelled as “low odour” or “unscented” to minimise the risk of discomfort during use.
What about DIY Recipes and Natural Alternatives to nail polish?
If you enjoy a hands-on approach to healthy nails there are DIY recipes for natural nail care products.
You can craft your own cuticle oil with essential oils to create eco-friendly nail polish remover pads from reusable cotton.
These DIY alternatives minimise waste and provide the healthiest choice for your nails.
Can you buy zero-waste tools for your sustainable manicure?
Sustainable nail tools are a good idea to complement your non-toxic bottle of nail polish.
You can use:
Plastic free/biodegradable cotton balls
Use recyclable nail polish bottles
17 Best non-toxic & cruelty-free nail polish brands available in the UK
1. Zoya
Zoya is known for its extensive nail polish colors and commitment to creating toxin-free, vegan-friendly formulas.
2. Zao
Zao is a natural and organic cosmetics brand that offers a range of eco-friendly nail polishes. Their formulas are free from potentially harmful ingredients such as formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates.
3. Manucurist
Manucurist is a French nail polish brand that offers a wide range of colours and finishes. I love this nail polish and their long-lasting formulas and commitment to using high-quality, non-toxic ingredients.
4. Suncoat
Suncoat is a Canadian brand that specialises in water-based nail polishes. All of the chemicals in a traditional nail polish have been replaced with water and is low odour, with little to non chemical fumes. Amazing!
5. UNT
UNT is a Taiwanese brand that offers a range of nail care products, including nail polishes, treatments, and accessories. Their polishes are a ’10-free’ formulation and water-based and the peel off top coat and base coat are now available in the UK!
6. Nailberry
Nailberry is a UK-based brand specialising in luxury, breathable, vegan-friendly nail polishes. Their polishes are formulated with a ’12-free’ patented technology that allows oxygen and water vapour to pass through the polish which is great for healthier nails.
7. Nails Inc.
Nails Inc. is a UK-based brand that offers a wide range of nail polishes in various colours and finishes. They are known for their innovative formulas and trend-setting shades.
8. AILA
AILA is a luxury nail care brand that offers a range of non-toxic, vegan-friendly nail polishes and treatments. Their products are formulated with high-quality ingredients and are free from harmful chemicals.
9. Butter London
Butter London‘s nail polishes are a ’10-free’ formula. Their nail polishes are also certified by PETA as cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, ensuring that no animals are harmed in the production process.
10. Nail Kind
Nail Kind is a vegan-friendly nail polish brand offering a range of fun colors and finishes. Their polishes are formulated with natural ingredients and are free from harmful chemicals and animal products.
11. Mint Tint
Mint Tint is a nail polish brand specialising in vegan-friendly, cruelty-free nail polishes. Their polishes are ‘clean and green, and made with 85%+ plant-based raw materials’.
12. Sally Hansen Good. Kind. Pure.
Sally Hansen is a well-known nail care brand that offers a range of nail polishes, including their Good. Kind. Pure. line. These polishes are formulated with 100% plant-based, vegan ingredients and are free from harmful chemicals.
13. Earthy
Earthy is an eco-conscious nail polish brand that offers a range of natural and organic nail polishes so their products are formulated with plant-based ingredients.
14. Mineral Fusion
Mineral Fusion‘s nail polishes are proudly ‘5-free’ which offers peace of mind for those prioritising clean and non-toxic beauty options.
15. Dear Sundays
Dear Sundays or ‘Sundays’ is a New York-based nail studio and brand that creates non-toxic, vegan-friendly nail polishes.
16. JINsoon
JINsoon is a luxury nail care brand founded by celebrity nail artist Jin Soon Choi. Their polishes are known for their high-quality ’21-free’ formula and trend-setting shades!
17. Palette
Palette London has a diverse range of vibrant colours and high-quality formulas for their nail polish that provide long-lasting wear and glossy shine. They are vegan, cruelty free and halal approved too!
17 Best Non Toxic Nail Polish UK
Related posts other readers loved:
25 DIY NATURAL BEAUTY TREATMENTS TO TRY AT HOME
