Pregnancy and Nail Polish – Is it Safe?

Is it safe to get your nails done when pregnant?

In pregnancy, applying nail polish is probably not a good idea. A study with laboratory mice indicated that chemicals found in nail polish can cause testicular problems in males and considered a reproductive toxin. It can interfere with the endocrine system.

Some cosmetic makers are removing a dangerous chemical called, dibutyl phthalate, an ingredient that has been used in nail polish and with certain medical equipment. OPI and Orly, companies who make nail polish, have already removed this chemical from it’s products. Sally Hanson is expected to follow suit.

In 2004, The Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, has stated that amounts of dibutyl phthalate in nail polish and cosmetics is relatively small and should not be harmful in these amounts, but that further studies need to be done. Because so much focus has been given to this particular chemical, it is evident that it is found in plastics used with various different products. Therefore, it is difficult to tell how much exposure one actually has to this chemical. Adding a relatively small amount added to another small amount, and so on, can actually be substantial.

Going to the nail salon doesn’t appear to be any safer, even if you are going for a manicure without having nail polish applied. Breathing in fumes from nail products may be harmful to your baby, especially during the first trimester.

All in all, if I were pregnant, I would refrain from visiting a nail salon.

Source: Nail Polish Disputed Chemical by the NY Times. Photo credit, Tony Cenicola.