For many years, the nail industry relied on a specific set of chemicals to ensure polish stayed shiny and fast-drying. However, as we learn more about the long-term effects of these substances on our health and the environment, the demand for non-toxic alternatives has grown.
At Statement, we believe a beautiful manicure should never come at the cost of your well-being. Here are five common ingredients we avoid, and the high-performance, cleaner brands we use instead.
5 Ingredients to Avoid
- Formaldehyde: Often used as a hardener, this known carcinogen can cause skin irritation and actually make natural nails more brittle over time, leading to cracking rather than true strength.
- Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP): A plasticizer used to prevent chipping, DBP is a suspected endocrine disruptor that can interfere with hormonal health. It has been banned in cosmetics in the EU for years.
- Toluene: This solvent creates a smooth application but is responsible for that sharp “chemical” smell. Exposure can cause dizziness and respiratory irritation.
- Formaldehyde Resin: A common allergen in the nail industry, this resin helps polish adhere but frequently causes redness or swelling around the cuticle area.
- Camphor: Used for a glossy finish, camphor can act as a skin irritant and is a frequent cause of the yellowing of the natural nail plate.
The Statement Standard: Our Trusted Brands
We have carefully curated our collection to include brands that prioritize both your health and a flawless finish.
Dazzle Dry
Dazzle Dry is a revolutionary lacquer system that is “9-Free,” meaning it excludes the most harmful chemicals found in traditional polish. It air-dries in just five minutes without UV light, providing the wear time of a gel with the easy removal of a polish. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and specifically designed to promote natural nail health.
Madam Glam
For our gel lovers, Madam Glam offers a “21-Free” formula. They are a certified vegan and cruelty-free brand that proves you don’t need harsh chemicals to achieve high-pigment, long-lasting gel results. Their soak-off gels are gentle on the nail plate while providing incredible shine and durability.
OPI
A household name for a reason, OPI has led the way in removing harmful chemicals from their formulas. Their ProHealth and classic lines are “3-Free” as a minimum standard, ensuring you get the iconic colors you love without the toxic trio of Formaldehyde, Toluene, and DBP.
The Role of Aftercare
Even with the cleanest products, maintaining the health of the surrounding skin is essential. This is why we recommend our signature cuticle oil. The avocado oil provides a deep, nutrient-rich moisture barrier that can penetrate the nail plate, while Vitamin E works to repair the skin, ensuring your hands look as healthy as they feel.
A Greener Way to Glow
Switching to non-toxic nail care doesn’t mean sacrificing performance. By choosing brands like Dazzle Dry, Madam Glam, and OPI, we ensure your manicure is vibrant, long-lasting, and safe. If you have questions about our ingredient standards, please ask us during your next visit.