Nail polish year-round is a popular beauty routine, especially when wearing sandals. However, is wearing nail polish all year safe for your nail health? This article covers the long-term effects of constant nail polish use on your feet and nails.
Everything you need to know about nail polish
Nail polish is a chemical mixture containing mineral pigments, resins, hardeners (like silicon), and solvents such as acetone, formaldehyde, toluene, and ethyl acetate. Since nails are porous, they allow chemical components to enter the body. To safely wear nail polish year-round, it is advisable to allow your nails rest periods to breathe. You can learn more about prohibited chemicals here.
What happens when you wear nail polish year-round?
Cosmetic producers declare ingredients in Canada but are not required to disclose health risks. Excessive nail polish use can expose you to harmful chemicals including:
- Phthalates: prevent brittleness but may disrupt endocrine and reproductive systems.
- Formaldehyde: used in nail hardeners, classified as a carcinogen.
- Toluene: used as a solvent, linked to headaches, dizziness, and nausea upon prolonged exposure, and responsible for nail polish’s smell.
Triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), replacing phthalates in some products, is also an endocrine disruptor used to soften and strengthen nail polish.
Tips for keeping toenails healthy with constant polish use
It is not necessary to avoid nail polish entirely. Occasional pedicures are safe if your feet are healthy. Nail polish should be used with awareness of its chemical nature. Podiatrists suggest:
- Allow nails to rest 1-2 days between applications to breathe.
- Avoid polish during fall and winter to let nails regrow natural color.
- Choose non-toxic nail polishes without harmful chemicals.
- Use non-acetone nail polish removers.
Extended polish use can dry and damage nails while hiding early signs of nail fungus such as discoloration or thickening.
Frequently Asked Questions About Permanent Polish
Can I keep polish on during winter?
Better to let toenails breathe a few days each month.
Are non-toxic polishes better?
Yes, but breaks remain important.
When should I consult a podiatrist?
At the first sign of discoloration or nail thickening.
PiedRéseau: experts ready to help with all of your foot issues
Nail polish is lovely in warm seasons but should be used moderately. If you notice nail discoloration, thickening or deformation, consult a podiatrist. PiedRéseau connects you to a diverse group of Quebec health specialists to deliver expert podiatric care.