Non Toxic Best Nail Polish Brands + 4 to Avoid

In this guide, we are sharing why you should consider making the switch to non-toxic nail polish, and giving you all of our favorite non-toxic nail polish brands, including nail polish removers and safer nail polish options for kids!

If you want to learn more, please visit our website RONIKI.

This article has been a LONG time coming! My journey into the research on safer nail polish began years ago when we first thought about starting a family. I've learned a lot throughout this process about what matters and what doesn't, as well as what to prioritize in terms of safer polish options. We consulted the EWG, our own thorough evaluations of different polishes, and individual brand websites to shape our guide!

For those interested in the science behind skincare and those looking for advice on navigating salon options (think gel and dip powders), stay tuned for those articles coming soon!

Let’s dive into it!

How Is Nail Polish Toxic?

Truth be told, the contact nail polish has with your skin is relatively minor compared to other skincare products. If you're starting to switch to safer products and feel overwhelmed, I recommend focusing on items that make the most contact with your skin first (think lotions or makeup). Here’s my suggested priority list for safer beauty product swaps:

• First: products that you apply regularly and that absorb into the skin. This includes body lotion, face cream, serums, oils, makeup, toner, eye cream, etc. My go-to safer skincare brand here.
• Second: deodorant. My go-to safer deodorant here.
• Third: any soaking products, such as bubble baths or spa-like soaks. My favorite soak here.
• Fourth: soaps, including body wash and shampoo/conditioner. My favorite safe body products here and my preferred shampoo/conditioner.
• Fifth: perfume, especially if worn multiple times a week. It can be pushed to the end of the list if used infrequently. My favorite safer perfume here.
• Sixth: hair styling products. My favorites here.
• Seventh: nail polish. Continue reading for my favorites!

While it may seem that your nails act as a protective barrier against nail polish, chemicals can pass through both your skin and your nails. This means that while toxins present in nail polish can penetrate your skin more easily, they can still be absorbed through your nails. So, if you choose to stick with conventional nail polish, be cautious about where you apply it.

Is Nail Polish Toxic to Breathe?

This is indeed a valid question! YES, there are several vaporous toxic ingredients that release while painting your nails, including toluene, formaldehyde, and camphor. Some may be relatively harmless (like rubbing alcohol), while others can negatively impact brain function and respiratory health or lead to headaches. If you're hesitant to forgo your salon manicure (no judgment!), consider carrying a filtering mask during your visits. For at-home manicures, try painting by an open window!

Is Dry Nail Polish Toxic?

Unfortunately, chemicals from nail polish persist in your system long after the polish has dried. TPHP, in particular, has been found to remain in your body hours post-application. The long-term effects of this chemical are still under scrutiny, but if you frequently use nail polish, we have gathered a list of non-toxic options for you!

Toxic Nail Polish Brands (Worth Avoiding)

While we aren’t here to single out any brand for condemnation, a few salon staples actually carry a significant toxic load:

OPI

*Updated information: A reader mentioned OPI as being 10-free, but we couldn't find evidence of this, so we reached out. Their official reply: "Our products are 3-free. Currently, we do not have information about becoming 5 or 10-free."

*Original information: OPI boasts of avoiding the toxic trio (toluene, formaldehyde, and DPB), but includes camphor—known to induce nausea and dizziness when inhaled—and Benzophenone 1, which could negatively impact endocrine function.

Essie

While some say Essie is a safer option, we disagree. Similar to OPI, Essie is also considered "3-free" (lacking toluene, formaldehyde, and DPB) but contains several ingredients we view skeptically. Notably, aluminum powder and dimethicone are part of its formulation, both of which are not great for body absorption. EWG has previously scored Essie at a 6 on their cosmetic database, categorizing it as moderately hazardous.

Sally Hansen

*Updated information: Sally Hansen's new "Good. Kind. Pure." line claims to be 16-free and 100% vegan; however, we haven't yet verified this with EWG ratings.

*Original information: Sally Hansen products are considered "3-free," but still contain potentially harmful ingredients like triphenyl phosphate, classified as toxic and allergenic by the EWG scoring them at a hazardous level of 8.

Revlon

Revlon holds scores of 3 and 6 from the EWG, placing it within the moderately hazardous category. However, due to ingredients such as aluminum powder, it's also on our no-go list.

What Are the Best Non-Toxic Nail Polish Brands?

We’ve rigorously tested numerous options for you! After trying out a multitude of safer nail polishes and colors, we've curated a list of the best healthy nail polish brands along with performance notes. There’s something for everyone here!

This nail system has significantly changed my "safer polish" routine! It’s user-friendly and has become the best at-home replacement for my regular salon visits. Unfortunately, there is currently no EWG rating available for this polish. For a detailed review of Dazzle Dry System, click HERE.

Pros:

• 10-free (excludes 10 of the most harmful common polish ingredients)
• Non-toxic AND hypoallergenic, ideal for sensitive skin
• Very easy to apply; behaves like traditional nail polish
• Dries in just 5 minutes—yes, it really does!
• Lasts for two weeks (even post washing dishes, cooking, gardening, and playing with my daughter!)
• Dazzle Dry partners with WeForest Project in India, a company I’m proud to support.

Cons:

• Individual polishes retail for $18 each, but I believe the quality justifies the price.

Certifications:

• None found.

Favorite Colors:

• Spring: "Prima Ballerina"—a light, opaque pink similar to OPI's "Bubble Bath."
• Summer: "White Lightening"—a bright, true white.
• Fall: "Midnight Express"—a great solid black.
• Winter: "Passionate Red"—a deep wine color perfect for holidays.

This polish's formula aims to nourish and enhance the health of your nails, making it a fantastic starting point for those opting for less toxic alternatives! There’s no EWG rating available right now for this polish either.

Pros:

• Eliminates 8 of the harshest chemicals from typical polish, including formaldehyde.
• The formula includes nutrients to support nail health (also has an oil-based remover).
• Applies smooth and beautifully! The applicator brush is precise, preventing lumps or bubbles.
• Dries quickly. I could paint my nails just half an hour before bed without needing to worry about smudges.
• Marked as both cruelty-free and gluten-free.
• At $14 per bottle, this is one of the lower-priced options on our list.

Cons:

• I typically receive about 5 days from a manicure, which is higher than some other brands but not as long as traditional gel or dip options.
• The remover (details below) has leaked when I traveled with it.

Certifications:

• None found.

Favorite Colors:

This polish is devoid of 6 of the most harmful chemicals found in nail products and comes in various trendy colors that tend to last longer than many low-toxin alternatives, though an EWG rating isn't currently available for Cote nail polish.

Pros:

• Free from 6 of the most hazardous ingredients.
• Both vegan and cruelty-free.
• 120 shades available in fabulous, modern gradients.
• This line markets itself as lasting longer than typical low-toxin formulas, though I experienced about 6 days with a manicure.

Cons:

• The polish takes longer to dry—about 30 to 45 minutes of no contact is recommended, and it didn’t survive the “paint before bed” test.
• At $18 a bottle, I felt the performance didn't justify the higher pricing.

Certifications:

• None found.

Favorite Colors:

• Spring: "Sea Foam Green"—a soft, pastel green.
• Summer: "No. 2"—a bright white.
• Fall: "No. 48"—a pretty mauve.
• Winter: "No. 32"—a classic red shade.

Known for its long-lasting, non-toxic formula, Zoya has over 400 color options to suit your fall palette! Zoya is presently unlisted in the EWG database.

Pros:

• 10-free (removing the 10 most harmful polish ingredients).
• Proudly communicates its longevity, similar to my claims of about 6 days from its use.
• The company touts its non-toxic formula, but specifics are a bit hard to pinpoint.
• If in a rush, I can still apply one coat for a satisfactory look, though not as enduring.
• At $10 per bottle, this falls on the affordable end of the spectrum!

Cons:

• Most of the common colors I tested tended to take a while to dry.
• The application can be tricky due to its thicker consistency.

Certifications:

• None found.

Favorite Colors:

• Spring: "Elena"—a soft light blue.
• Summer: "Paz"—a vibrant orange-red.
• Fall: "Rye"—a striking purple.
• Winter: "Willa"—a classic statement-ready black.

Check out matte or glossy options at your nearby Target! This polish has an EWG rating of 1/2, classified as low hazard!

Pros:

• 7-free.
• No harsh scent.
• Minimal toxicity.
• Offers colorful varieties.
• Cruelty-free and vegan.
• At $7.99 per bottle, it’s a fantastic value for a low-tox option!

Cons:

• Being water-based means it doesn’t last as long compared to other formulas (utilize a base/top coat for extended wear!).

Certifications:

• None found.

Favorite Colors:

• Spring: "Jazz It Up"—a delightful pink suitable for any complexion.
• Summer: "LOL"—the ultimate hot pink for balmy days.
• Fall: "Sleepover"—a stunning deep gray.
• Winter: "Sometimes Sweet"—a rich deeper red.

They've put significant effort into crafting vibrant hues while maintaining safety, with an EWG score of 1/2, indicating very low toxicity!

Pros:

• Free from all toxic elements, surpassing the 10-free standard!
• Vegan and cruelty-free.
• Wide array of colors available.
• My manicures using Sophi typically outlast the others a few days (7 days with extensive usage).
• Closest option to typical gel manicures in terms of safety.
• Reasonable pricing at $7.99 per bottle!

Cons:

• Application requires some familiarity, as setting it properly involves heat (like from a blow-dryer) with each coat, which may add time to your process.
• Using Sophi polish requires the associated remover (with peeling against it adding time). More on the unique remover below!

Certifications:

• None found.

Favorite Colors:

• Spring: "ROME-ance Me"—a lovely, muted pink.
• Summer: "Pretty Shore About You"—a delicate turquoise.
• Fall: "Eiffel of Love"—the ideal soft gray.
• Winter: "French Latte"—a beautiful soft nude.

ella + mila is yet another fantastic brand to add to your collection, with no EWG rating for this polish currently available.

Pros:

• 7-free.
• Low in odor.
• Vegan and cruelty-free.
• Remarkably chip-resistant.
• More cost-effective at $7-10.50 per bottle.

Cons:

• Takes longer to dry.

Certifications:

• None found.

Favorite Colors:

• Spring: "Honeymoon Bliss"—perfect for a soft pink.
• Summer: "Limoncello"—a neon yellow delight.
• Fall: "Mauve Over"—a subtle purple masterpiece.
• Winter: "Mediterranean Mist"—a stunning deep blue.

While not as safe as other non-toxic options, 100% Pure Safer Nail Polishes have some charming colors on offer.

Pros:

• 10-free from the most common toxic ingredients, including formaldehyde.
• The formula is smooth and creamy.
• Advertised as safe for kids (though that EWG score is a cause for concern).
• Vegan and cruelty-free.
• A price point of $14 per bottle is decent for a non-toxic option!

Cons:

• Scored a 6 on the EWG scale, among the highest of the so-called "safer" polishes available in the market.

Certifications:

• None found.

Favorite Colors:

• Spring: "You’re A Peach"—a lovely pastel peach.
• Summer: "Cor-All or Nothing"—a bold summer statement.
• Fall: "Camel-by-the-Sea"—a soft nude with a hint of pink.
• Winter: "Elderberry"—a warm, deep purple.

We commend Poofy Organics for another low EWG rating, scoring a 2!

Pros:

• Exceeds the 10-free threshold! Taking out 12 harmful ingredients.
• Chip resistant, providing up to 6 days with minimal wear.
• Kid-friendly.
• Cruelty-free.
• A value-friendly price of $11 per bottle for low-tox options.

Cons:

• Requires more drying time, so plan accordingly! Allow for a span of time to complete your at-home manicure.

Certifications:

• Leaping Bunny Certified.

Favorite Colors:

• Spring: "Breakfast Blue"—a vibrant blue featuring hints of sea-foam green.
• Summer: "Peachy Keen"—a lovely soft peach with pink undertones.
• Fall: "Almond Biscotti"—a soft pink masterpiece.
• Winter: "Black Cherries"—perfect for a rich dark red.

While this brand scores a 6 on the EWG, placing it on the lower end of our list, it’s still worth mentioning.

Pros:

• 7-free (eliminating Toluene, Camphor, and 5 other harmful chemicals).
• Proudly marketed as a high-shine product.
• Vegan and cruelty-free.
• Additionally offers fresh and youthful color choices.
• $16 per bottle places it in the mid-range for pricing.

Cons:

• Even with brand strengths, the relatively high EWG score remains a concern.

Certifications:

• Leaping Bunny Certified.

Favorite Colors:

• Spring: "We’re Off to Never Never Land"—a muted purple cream.
• Summer: "Yellowstone"—an incredible subtle yellow.
• Fall: "Rose Sheer"—the ideal sheer cream.
• Winter: "Rodeo Drive Royalty"—a rich festive red for Christmas and New Year!

While EWG information is lacking for this polish at the moment, we still wanted to include it.

Pros:

• 10-free.
• Non-yellowing formula.
• Long-lasting wear.
• Easy to remove.
• Manufactured without many harsh chemicals.
• Also vegan and cruelty-free.
• Affordable at $9.99 per bottle.

Cons:

• Not as low-odor as some of the other natural polishes.

Certifications:

• None found.

Favorite Colors:

• Spring: "Madison AVE"—a soft, subtle orange.
• Summer: "Veronica"—a bold neon purple.
• Fall: "Vinyl"—a rich, deep black.
• Winter: "Vegas Night"—a festive decorative gold.

Nontoxic Nail Polish Remover Options

Finding safe nail polish removers can be a challenge, but it’s essential to know they vary significantly in experience compared to traditional removers. Some may be gel-like, some oil-based, and some feel like they require considerably more product. Below are some brands that are worth considering:

A solid option due to its ability to eliminate polish without the overwhelming odor associated with traditional removers. In fact, it has a pleasant lavender scent and includes nutrients that help condition nails.

Pros:

• Doesn't possess the typical overpowering remover scent.
• Fragrance comes from lavender.
• Nutrients included that condition and protect the nail.

Cons:

• Pricier than standard nail polish removers.

The remover from Cote is advantageous because of its easy top-press dispenser; however, the scent can be somewhat unpleasant, and it tends to evaporate quickly.

Pros:

• Stylish top-press dispensing option.

Cons:

• Strong odor.
• Evaporates quickly, requiring more product per use.

While the following remover is designed for Sophi nail polish specifically, it works excellently! Apply this gel formula and see it gradually lift your polish in a rather cool process!

Pros:

• Works efficiently!
• Almost feels like a science project!

Cons:

• Could be tricky to use initially.
• Requires stillness while the 'remover' acts on the polish.

My personal favorite! This remover has no unpleasant smell, is oil-like, and effectively removes polish with ease.

Pros:

• No unpleasant odor.
• Functions beautifully as its oil-like consistency seamlessly removes polish.

Cons:

• May leak during travel.

Non-Toxic Nail Polish Brands for Kids

A fantastic alternative for finding completely non-toxic polish for kids, featuring no chemicals, low odors, and fun hues!

Pros:

• 100% non-toxic.
• Low odor.
• Color varieties are appealing for kids.

Cons:

• Tends to chip easily (apply top coat for better longevity).

Water-based and free of rugged chemicals, this polish set offers playful colors and comes with a top coat!

Pros:

• Exempts multiple harsh chemicals.

Cons:

• Water-based (require base/top coat for optimum wear).

This is another impressive kid-friendly option! While it excludes several harmful chemicals, a more potent scent is present compared to other non-toxic brands.

Pros:

• Free from several dangerous chemicals.

Cons:

• Stronger aroma compared to alternatives.

This polish is entirely toxin-free, odorless, and even washable!

Pros:

• Toxin-free.
• Odorless.
• Washable.

Cons:

• Somewhat pricey (~$11/bottle).

Frequently Asked Questions

What brand nail polish do salons use?

In all honesty, *most* salons aren’t using the best Non-Toxic options. Many rely on OPI and similar brands with less-than-stellar ingredients. Remember, you can always bring your nail polish for the salon to use, as many are accommodating!

What brand of nail polish lasts the longest?

After all of our tests, we've discovered that the Dazzle Dry system outlasts them all! It held up for an impressive 10-14 days.

What if you don't want to give up your favorite nail polish?

We understand! As a first safe step, consider painting your nails with a safer base coat (this is my top-rated base coat). Let it dry, forming a protective barrier, and then layer your favorite conventional color on top.

Here’s Our Take on Safe Nail Polish Brands

Don't stress! There are far better options available now, but it's something we don’t think you should lose sleep over.