Depending on what you find, you can switch nail polish brands.
A study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and Duke University shows that wearing nail polish for 10 to 14 hours can have unexpected (and unwanted) side effects.
The study involved 26 volunteers who applied nail polish and then went about their daily routine. After 10-14 hours, the researchers tested and detected triphenylphosphate (TPHB) in each participant. Furthermore, a press release accompanying the study noted that “chemicals were found in women’s urine after painting their nails.”
“Importantly, two of the eight TPHP positives were not identified on the product label,” the press release states. “Duke researchers chose not to label these two and six other polishes containing TPHP, and the lab tested only 10 samples, not all nail products from all manufacturers.”
The study authors speculate that some manufacturers may change their labels to disclose the presence of TPHB before the study is published.
So, why might this be such a big deal?
TPHB is a plasticizer used to make products more flexible. In the case of nail polish, premature cracking can be prevented.
Numerous studies have shown that TPHB alters the endocrine system of animals and the hormonal and reproductive systems of humans. Some scientists worry that the chemical may increase the risk of certain diseases.
Additionally, some studies have shown an association between TPHB and weight gain. It affects the body’s metabolism and increases the risk of obesity.
