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Writer's pictureViet Nail Studio

The Truth About '10+ Free' Products: Are They Really Safer for Your Health

Updated: Mar 6



In this enlightening journey through the evolving landscape of beauty products, we delve into the significant shift away from ten hazardous chemicals, celebrating the beauty industry's commitment to safety, sustainability, and ethical responsibility.

 

This article examines the top 10 toxic chemicals historically used in beauty products and explains why their removal represents an important turning point in cosmetic safety and consumer health. From the reproductive risks of Dibutyl Phthalate to the ethical implications of animal-derived substances, we explain why they are being phased out and propose safer, inventive alternatives that are transforming our beauty regimens. Join us as we explore how this revolution not only promotes health but also paves the way for a more sustainable beauty future.


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Dibutyl Phthalate: Improves nail polish flexibility but has been linked to reproductive difficulties. Its use originates from its ability to keep nail polish from becoming brittle.

 

Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) was utilised in beauty goods, particularly nail paints, for its ability to impart flexibility and a glossy lustre while preventing manicures from becoming brittle. However, DBP has been related to reproductive difficulties and other health concerns, prompting a re-evaluation of its use in cosmetic formulations. The negative effects of DBP, particularly its potential as an endocrine disruptor, have prompted the industry to look for safer alternatives. Alternatives to DBP in cosmetic products include safer plasticizers such as Triphenyl Phosphate (TPHP) and Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (ATBC), which provide comparable benefits without the health hazards. These options help to preserve product performance while guaranteeing customer safety.

 


Toluene: A solvent for easy application that can harm the nervous system. Its quick-drying qualities are desirable in nail polish formulations.

 

Toluene, which is utilised in nail polishes for its easy application and quick drying qualities, has been linked to adverse health effects such as nervous system damage and developmental problems. Its volatility and solvent properties made it a popular ingredient in recipes. However, due to its poisonous nature, there is a trend towards safer alternatives such as ethyl acetate and butyl acetate. These alternatives offer comparable benefits without the accompanying health hazards, meeting rising customer demand for safer beauty products.

 



Formaldehyde: hardens and strengthens nails; however, it is carcinogenic. It's utilised as a preservative in cosmetics.

 

Formaldehyde, which is used in cosmetics for its preservation and hardening characteristics, has serious health consequences, including being a recognised carcinogen. Its application in nail hardeners and hair straightening treatments stems from its capacity to improve product durability and shelf life. Because of its negative effects, the industry is shifting to safer alternatives such as formaldehyde releasers, which provide similar benefits without direct exposure to formaldehyde, or completely avoiding such compounds by using natural preservatives and hardening agents, reflecting the trend towards health-conscious formulations.

 


Formaldehyde Resin: Produces a glossy sheen but may cause skin discomfort. Its durability is desirable in nail varnish.

 

Formaldehyde resin, which is used to make nail paints durable and glossy, can cause skin irritation and allergies. As public awareness of its negative consequences rises, the beauty industry is looking into safer alternatives such as tosylamide/formaldehyde resin, which provides similar benefits without the accompanying health hazards. This adjustment is part of a larger trend towards formulations that prioritise customer safety while preserving product performance.

 


Camphor: Adds lustre and has antifungal properties but can cause dizziness and nausea. Its inclusion in products is based on its ability to avoid chipping.

 

Camphor, which was once popular in nail paints for its glossy appearance and antifungal effects, is now recognised to cause irritation and nausea. Alternatives, such as safer, non-toxic plasticizers and natural oils, provide the required nail polish effects while minimising health risks. This change reflects the industry's push for customer safety and environmentally responsible formulas.

 


Ethyl Tosylamide: Improves polish adherence but is banned in some areas due to antibiotic resistance concerns. Its film-forming ability is desirable for long-term wear.

 

Ethyl Tosylamide, which is used for its film-forming qualities in nail polishes, improves durability and adherence. However, due to concerns about antibiotic resistance and possible classification as a medicine, alternatives such as cellulose and acrylates copolymer are utilised. These alternatives provide the requisite film-forming and adhesion properties while eliminating the related health and regulatory problems, harmonising with the industry's shift towards safer, more sustainable formulations.

 


Xylene: Smoothes application but might cause headaches and dizziness. Its solvent qualities guarantee uniform uniformity in polishes.

 

Xylene, which is used in nail polish for its solvent qualities that allow for smooth application, is being phased out due to harmful consequences such as headaches and dizziness. Safer alternatives, such as ethyl acetate and butyl acetate, provide comparable solvent capabilities without the negative health consequences, signalling a trend towards consumer safety in beauty product compositions.

 


Parabens: extend product shelf life but have been related to hormone problems. They are commonly employed for their effective preservation properties.

 

Parabens, which are used as preservatives in cosmetics, are being replaced due to their potential endocrine disrupting effects and health risks. Alternatives such as vitamin E (tocopherol), ethylhexylglycerin, and phenoxyethanol provide similar preservation properties without the hazards, demonstrating the beauty industry's shift towards safer, more natural formulas.

 



Fragrances: increase sensory appeal but also cause allergies and sensitivities. Their primary use is to improve the consumer experience.

 

Fragrances, which are commonly manufactured and utilised in cosmetics for their enticing scents, are being reviewed due to potential allergies and sensitivities. Alternatives include essential oils and fragrance-free formulations, which provide sensory appeal or hypoallergenic properties without the health hazards. This change reflects a broader industry trend towards transparency and safety in component selection.

 

Animal-derived components: which were once widely used in cosmetic products for a variety of benefits, are being phased out due to ethical concerns and potential allergies. Alternatives include plant-based oils, butters, and synthetic compounds that match the qualities of animal-derived components while avoiding ethical and allergic concerns. This move is consistent with the growing demand for vegan and cruelty-free cosmetic products, reflecting a larger industry trend towards ethical and inclusive product formulations.


 

Through the viewpoint of 'The Exclusion Revolution,' we've navigated the substantial move away from 10 toxic chemicals in beauty products and towards safer, more sustainable alternatives. This path demonstrates the industry's dedication to not only improving cosmetic safety, but also advancing environmental and ethical responsibilities. We hope this exploration informs and inspires you by highlighting the changing landscape of beauty products built with efficacy and well-being in mind."


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