When it comes to what we put inside our bodies, the fewer unpronounceable ingredients the better. According to these carcinogen-free nail polish brands, the same applies to the outside.
Glossy, long-lasting hues bring digits to life sans such questionable elements as formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, and toluene. Also on the no-go list: little known culprits formaldehyde resin and camphor. Herewith, the definitive list — complete with our favorite summer shades, naturally.
Eco-Friendly Shades We Love
Your guide to nailing a toxin-free manicure.
Kure Bazaar
Why we love it: The 85% natural formula consists of wood pulp, wheat and cotton. Speaking of cotton: the Jeans Collection is just the thing to compliment cut-offs, and then some.
Priti NYC
Why we love it: As one of the first non-toxic lines on the market, Priti NYC has become a backstage beauty staple. We’re keeping our eyes peeled for the neon-fueled Australia Summer 2014 collection.
Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics
Why we love it: These 100% vegan, cruelty-free lacquers are ultra-saturated and quick drying to boot.
RGB
Why we love it: From our new favorite red to 7 fail-proof greys, the expertly curated color assortment is outshined only by the glossy, chip-resistant formula.
Tenoverten
Why we love it: As its name suggests, The Shield protective top coat acts as a barrier between you and all manner of manicure mangling elements.
Zoya
Why we love it: The 300+ color selection is chock-full of runway-ready shades. NYFW darlings -- and most recent Zoya collaborators -- Timo Weiland, Zimmermann and Peter Som agree.
JINsoon
Why we love it: Brainchild of seasoned nail artist, Jin Soon Choi, this sleek polish collection is the next best thing to an in-person appointment at one of Choi’s NYC salons.
NCLA
Why we love it: Spearheaded by this sexy Bordeaux, this season’s JetSetter collection is sure to inspire some major wanderlust.
Deborah Lippmann
Why we love it: Every bottle is spiked with nail-healthy biotin and green tea extract.
Scotch Naturals
Why we love it: The hypoallergenic, water-based varnish is long-lasting and safe to wear during pregnancy. And don’t miss the surprisingly potent soy-based polish remover.
Chanel
Why we love it: Because we’ve yet to find anything from the house of Chanel we don’t instantly adore.
LVX
Why we love it: Much like its in-the-know clientele, LVX is super choosy when it comes to shade selection, launching but a few colors per season.
Sheswai Lacquer
Why we love it: Responsibly farmed wood bottle caps take Sheswai’s do-good mission to the next level.
Acquarella
Why we love it: Water-based, odorless, and toxin-free. This is hands down safest nail polish out there.
Mineral Fusion
Why we love it: A spectrum of sustainably produced shades with the added bonus of nail-nourishing minerals.
