15 Best Non-Toxic Nail Polishes For The Perfect At-Home Manicure
Give your nails that salon-like finish and shine with long-lasting pigments.
Beth Brown is a licensed nail technician/esthetician with over 30 years of experience. She currently holds licenses in three states as well as a degree in fashion merchandising. Beth founded Be a Betty in 2020, fulfilling her dreams of naming a nail polish and building a beauty lifestyle brand.
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Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
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Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
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While you embrace organic foundations, lipsticks, and other makeup products, it is a good idea to give some thought to your nails. Ditch the conventional nail lacquer formulas often packed with harmful chemicals and choose the best non-toxic nail polish. These chemical-free products are made with premium-quality ingredients that provide a long-lasting finish and shine.
While traditional nail colors might cause headaches, dry skin, and dizziness, the non-toxic nail polishes are healthy, stylish, and do not damage your nails. In this article, we have compiled a list of some of our top picks for the best non-toxic nail polish available online for you to flaunt those statement-making nails. The good news is now there are so many polishes that are free of toxins you are bound to find a brand that will work for you. Keep scrolling to check them all out!
In This Article
What Is A Non-Toxic Nail Polish?
Since chemicals in nail polishes can absorb through our nails and into our bodies, manufacturers have started to eliminate chemical additives that may damage your health. 3-free nail polishes have gained considerable popularity in recent years for being free from toxic and destructive ingredients like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate. This has increasingly led to formulas opting out of the chemical race and eliminating more harmful ingredients like formaldehyde resin, camphor, xylene, ethyl tosylamide, and many others. You’ll notice 5-, 10-, 12-, or 16-free written on the nail polish label if the ingredients are free from these chemicals.
More and more nail lacquer brands agree on a list of potentially harmful chemical ingredients to avoid and are becoming much more transparent with what their formulas contain. Of course, while it’s necessary to be conscious while using safer products on your enamel, you shouldn’t have to give up a happy nail polish experience. There are some colorful, stylish, and safe formulations out there, and we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best non-toxic nail polishes for you!
15 Best Non-Toxic Nail Polishes For Colorful And Safe Nails In 2023
1. Best Vegan Nailpolish: Sally Hansen Good.Kind.Pure. Nail Polish – Elderflower Power
The Sally Hansen Vegan Nail Polish – Elderflower Power is a 100% vegan formula free from 16 chemicals!Steer clear of harmful ingredients that can cause long-term damage to your tips with this non-toxic, toluene- and formaldehyde-free nail polish. Formulated with plant-based ingredients like potato, corn, wheat, and sugar cane, which are combined to give you a smooth and colorful finish, this nail polish settles as a rich earthy tone. For the perfect application, the brush also contains 100% plant-based bristles made from castor bean oil. With no animal-derived ingredients in the formula or packaging, this vegan nail polish will add a bright and non-toxic splash of color to your nails. Several reviewers highly recommend this product for its effortlessly smooth, streak-free application.
- 100% natural
- Free from 16 chemicals
- Plant-based ingredients
- Plant-based applicator brush
- This non-toxic nail polish may take some time to dry completely.
"This natural hue requires two coats for superb depth. Even on reapplication, my nails showed no discoloration. I like that it is easy to apply and remove. It does not chip easily and keeps my manicure looking fresh."
Pro Tip2. Best Long-Lasting Formula: Orly Nail Lacquer – Glowstick
If you like vibrant colored nail polishes, try the Orly Nail Lacquer in the shade glowstick. It is a fluorescent yellow creme non-toxic nail polish that leaves a sparkling glow on your nails. The long-lasting formula has a vibrant color intensity and the perfect finish that lends your nails a natural shine. This nail lacquer formulation is free from 12 chemical ingredients including toluene, formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, camphor, parabens, gluten, and animal-derived ingredients. The nail polish instantly glides on, is durable, and delivers a streak-free coverage that is worth your while.
- 12-free formula
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Durable color
- Streak-free coverage
- Fast-drying formula
- UV-inhibitors to prevent fading
- Some may find this nail polish to have a thin and porous texture.
"It is a vivid color that looks bright on my nails. The formula glides on smoothly without thickening. It does not emit a strong odor. And the best thing is that it lasts for a long time without chipping or getting discolored."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 5,827 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
3. Best Non-Yellowing Formula:Karma Hues Organic Nail Polish
If you are cutting toxins out of your life, the Karma Hues Organic Nail Polish can be the ideal choice for you. The French nail polish formula contains nourishing ingredients like calcium, vitamins, and coffee extract that strengthen the nails without causing any damage. It is durable and chip-resistant to enable you to enjoy your pretty nails for long periods of time. It is suitable for kids, teens, and adults alike. This non-yellowing nail polish is absolutely safe for children as well as pregnant women and is available in different colors. This ethically-sourced brand strongly advocates for animal welfare and does not test its products on them.
- Easy application
- Flawless coverage
- Non-yellowing
- 150 color options
- Cruelty-free
- Toxin-free
None
Pro TipSally Hansen Good.Kind.Pure. Nail Polish - Elderflower Power Best Vegan Nailpolish | Orly Nail Lacquer - Glowstick Best Long-Lasting Formula | Karma Hues Organic Nail Polish Best Non-Yellowing Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Elderflower Power | Glowstick | RED AND EVEN |
| Dimensions | 1.35 x 1.08 x 2.94 inches | 1.25 x 1.25 x 3.06 inches | - |
| Weight | 1.44 Ounces. | 2.4 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 13,995 | 5,827 | 168 |
| Price | $5 | $8.02 | $10.99 |
4. Best Gentle Formula:Sophi Nail Polish
The Sophi Nail Polish is your one-way ticket to non-toxic and chemical-free colorful nails. This nail polish is for all health-conscious and environment-conscious individuals as it uses natural ingredients to achieve the perfect color, does not involve animal testing, and adds a nice finish on your nails without damaging them at all. It has a water-based formula that is virtually fragrance-free. It does not contain harsh chemicals and is durable. This non-irritating nail polish is also safe for pregnant ladies as well as nursing mothers. Many reviewers on Amazon liked this nail color for being odourless and making their nail looks appear shiny.
- Eco-friendly
- Water-based formulation
- Odorless
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
None
5. Best In Child-Friendly: Piggy Paint Natural As Mud Nail Polish
The Piggy Paint Natural As Mud Nail Polish is a non-toxic, low-odor, and child-friendly alternative to toxic nail colors. You can trust that this water-based formula is eco-friendly and free from harsh chemicals, while leaving your nails healthier. Compared to solvent-based paints that reek of a strong odor, this 7-free nail polish is gentle on your nails. You can get chip-resistant results with this nail polish that not only dries quickly, but also has a durable finish.
- Water-based formula
- Virtually odorless
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Child-friendly
- Durable color
- 7-free ingredients
- Some may find the nail polish slightly clumpy.
"It has a pleasing, light odor and lovely color that looks amazing on my nails. While it might peel off faster than regular polishes, it's much safer, and even my pets don't mind the scent."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 2,898 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
6. Best Creamy Formula: ILNP Boutique Nail Lacquer – Birthday Suit
For a creamy formula that is also aesthetically pleasing, the ILNP in the shade Birthday Suit is a cashmere pink holographic nail polish that is a must-have! The nail polish contains holographic micro-flakes that give your nails an added sparkle. With high-quality ingredients that are 100% vegan, this non-toxic nail polish is formulated without any harsh chemicals. The cruelty-free color is safe to use and also offers long-lasting coverage and chip-resistant durability. The 5-free ingredient list can also be removed easily, making this product a safe bet.
- Creamy formula
- Easy to remove
- Long-lasting coverage
- Chip-resistant
- 5-free ingredients
- You may find that the color is rather light.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 11,668 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
7. Best Non-Irritating Formula: Cirque Colors Creme Urbanized Nail Polish
The Cirque Colors Creme Urbanized Nail Polish is a vegan and cruelty-free formula that delivers a smooth and long-lasting finish. The spicy mustard yellow creme has a non-toxic and 10-free formula that will leave your nails safe and colored. This product is handmade in small batches that are free from chemicals including parabens, and synthetic fragrances. The easy-to-apply consistency is agreeably one of the top reasons to have this non-toxic nail polish in your manicure kit! Plus, the brand does not use ingredients or products that are tested on animals.
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Non-toxic 10-free formula
- Easy to apply
- Lasting color
- Some may find the consistency of the nail polish to be too thick.
"This polish color is beautiful and its formula is fantastic. It provides ample coverage to my nails. Though it takes longer to dry, the end result is beautiful. Another bonus, the polish stays on my nails for a long time."
8. Best For Daily Use:ZOYA Nail Polish – Scarlet
The ZOYA Nail Polish in the shade Scarlet has a creme base of faint peach undertones, that will add a sheer, fleshy tone and glossy sparkle to your nails. The vegan and non-toxic nail polish is free from 10 chemicals that will keep your tips looking and feeling healthy. If you are looking for a lasting color and shine, choose this non-toxic nail color that comes with a small and easy-to-use application brush that will give you maximum coverage with a single stroke. Suitable for everyday wear, this nail polish will add a shimmery touch to your look. The product received great reviews on Amazon for its glossy finish and opacity.
- Vegan
- Non-toxic 10-free formula
- Easy-to-apply
- Creme finish
- May take quite some time to dry completely
9. Best Fade-Resistant Option: butter LONDON Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer – Regal Red
The butter LONDON Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer In Regal Red delivers a gel-like shine for brighter, stronger, and healthier nails. The long-wearing nail polish is free from 8 chemicals that ensures you of making the safest choice for your nails. With a patented shock-resisting polymer technology that gives you up to a 10-day wear time, this chip-resistant nail polish has a gel-like soft finish. For an extra shine, this nail polish also has UV absorbers to prevent fading. Infused with bamboo extracts, this formula also helps to strengthen your tips. The product is not tested on animals, which makes it ideal for people seeking ethically conscious makeup options.
- 8-free formula
- Up to 10-day wear
- Chip-resistant
- Full-color coverage
- Gel-like soft finish
- Fade-resistant
- Available in up to 27 shades
- Some may find it slightly streaky
"Although this polish takes time to dry, it delivers an enduring glossy finish. The charming red color looks amazing on my nails. It applies evenly on my nails and stays on for a long time, which makes it a worthy purchase."
Pro Tip10. Best In Organic Ingredients: Karma Organic 2-In-1 Base Coat And Top Coat
This 7-free formula does not contain chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, camphor, or animal ingredients. This natural and organic nail color is chip-resistant and does not split or peel easily. This non-toxic, toluene-free nail polish is safe for sensitive and allergy-prone skin types too. It contains keratin to harden your nails and prevent brittle tips and keeps them hydrated. Infused with ingredients like vitamins A, B5, C, E, along with plant extracts like aloe vera, lemon, and grape, this is a formula that you can depend on! Reviewers liked this nail color for its nourishing ingredients, which impart strength to the nails and make them look healthier.
- Natural and organic ingredients
- Chemical-free nail polish
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free product
- Extra hard and long-lasting
- Hypoallergenic
- Chip-resistant finish
- It may not dry easily
"Just one coat leaves my nails looking shiny and smooth. It lasted on my nails for two weeks. I love that it applies easily without thickening. It is a fantastic choice if you're seeking an organic solution."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 972 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
11. LONDONTOWN Lakur Enhanced Color
The LONDONTOWN Lakur Enhanced Color is a 16-free highly pigmented formula that is infused with a florium complex. The florium complex contains an amalgamation of botanical ingredients like rapeseed flower oil, cucumber extract, garlic extract, evening primrose oil, chamomile extract, and vitamin E. For long-lasting shine, this formula is free from toxic chemicals that will give your enamel a healthy shine. It is also vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free. The gel-like nails are shatterproof and contain a durable molecular bond for stronger nails. Many reviewers on Amazon were of the opinion that the price is well-worth the wear.
- 16-free formula
- Highly pigmented
- Contains botanical ingredients and mineral oils
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- No gluten
- Shatter-proof and durable
- It may smudge easily.
12. TOMICCA Kids Nail Polish Set
The TOMICCA Kids Nail Polish Set contains no chemicals and is free from formaldehyde, benzophenone, and heavy metals. This water-based less toxic nail polish is not just eco-friendly, but also virtually odorless, making this a suitable option for children. The easy-to-apply formula can also be removed by simply peeling it off. An ideal gifting option, this non-toxic polish does not contain parabens, and is both cruelty-free and vegan.
- Non-toxic and odorless
- Water-based nail polish
- Easy-to-apply
- Suitable for children
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- May take about 5 minutes to completely dry
"They are easy to use and I have had fun trying out the lovely colors. The coats tend to be thin, so more than one application is often needed. They are odor-free and are easy to peel off, making them safe for kids. I'd recommend the set for a colorful experience."
13. Tenoverten Nail Polish
For chip-resistant color, the Tenoverten Nail Polish is an ideal cruelty-free choice that will give you stronger, healthier and colorful nails. The 5-free non-toxic nail polish will help you combat long-term side effects of chemically-laden products. Without sacrificing the quality of your nails, this lasting lacquer gives you a smooth, saturated, and streak-free color. This natural nail polish is a healthy alternative to chemical polishes, and is not only easy to apply, but also promotes the overall health of your enamel. If you want to find out more about this product and its usage, make sure to check out this review on YouTube to learn about a tester’s experience of using it.
- 5-free formula
- Chip-resistant color
- Promotes strong and healthy nails
- Long-lasting polish
- Streak-free color
- Easy-to-apply
- You may not get the coverage that you expect
14. Cote Toxin Free Nail Polish
The Cote Toxin Free Nail Polish is a vegan and cruelty-free nail polish that works as an effective base and topcoat. For a chip-resistant manicure experience, this non-toxic nail polish does not contain harmful ingredients. Additionally, it is formulated with vitamin B5 and coffee extracts that strengthen your weak or peeling nails. You can trust that this shiny nail polish will not harm your nails and instead give you the bright shine and color that you want.
- Vegan
- Chip-resistant
- Contains vitamin B5 and coffee extracts
- Cruelty-free
- Helps to revitalize nails
- It may not dry quickly.
"The quick-drying, long-lasting properties of this nail polish impressed me. The minimal odor was a plus, and the formula even seemed to encourage nail growth! The stunning hue looks amazing on my nails too. All in all, a worthwhile indulgence."
15. Piggy Paint SOPHi Nail Polish
The Piggy Paint SOPHi Nail Polish is a low-odor formula that is water-based and free from harsh chemicals. This vegan and cruelty-free alternative has a hard and durable finish that lasts longer. The non-toxic nail polish gives your nails the shine and color that you want, without compromising on the health of your tips. Free from formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate, this nail color is also safe enough for pregnant women and nursing mothers. Many reviewers on Amazon liked this product as it goes smooth on nails and remains long-lasting too.
- Low-odor formula
- Water-based nail polish
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Hard and durable
- Suitable for pregnant women
- You may find that the nail polish has a slightly thick consistency.
This was our list of highly-rated nail polishes that help you achieve salon-worthy nails. Also, it is worth noting that all these products are picked after a careful and in-depth analysis of their unbiased reviews online.
Non-toxic nail polishes are free of recognized toxins and allergens, which makes them a safe nail polish alternative for your nail enamel. Picking the best non-toxic polish can be difficult due to the sheer number of choices and formulations available, but our buying guide will assist you in making the best decision.
How To Choose A Non-Toxic Nail Polish
- Ingredients
When choosing a non-toxic nail polish, you may come across 3-free, 5-free, 7-free, and up to 16-free products. These counts indicate the number of chemicals or harmful ingredients that are absent in the formulation. The most common toxic trio is toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate which may cause skin irritations and other long-term effects on your body. Look for acetone-free, formaldehyde-free, phthalate-free, resin-free, ethyl tosylamide-free, xylene-free, and camphor-free nail polishes. This ensures that your nail stays healthy no matter how many times you choose to paint them with color.
- Base
Choose an expertly crafted water-based nail polish. A water-based polish does not give off harmful fumes and is safe for your skin. Solvent-based nail polishes, on the other hand, can give off toxic fumes, which can be dangerous when inhaled. Since nail colors last long on your enamel, you want to choose a base that is safe for you.
- Finish
When looking for non-toxic nail polish, you may also want to consider the final look of the color. You can choose a finish that best suits your taste. Whether you want a matte or creamy finish, there is a non-toxic nail polish available for you. Opt for something that has a glossy finish if you’re looking for a finish that will compliment your outfit on special occasions. Creme and matte nail polishes are more suitable if you want to add a bit of color to your everyday look. Sheer nail polishes are ideal for daily wear, while glitter nail polishes are perfect for night-outs and parties. You can even opt for metallic nail polishes if you wish to try something different, fun, and daring.
- Lasting power
Non-toxic nail polishes are free from harmful chemicals, which may not allow them to last as long as chemical polishes do. Look for products that last up to 7 days without causing any harm. You can also choose from a large variety of colors and look for polishes that are easy to remove. Some nail polishes also come with a peelable option so you don’t have to worry about using a chemical nail polish remover to get rid of the color.
Infographic: 5 Common Irritants Absent In Non-Toxic Nail Polish
Non-toxic nail polishes help you achieve pretty-looking nails without incurring damage from harmful chemicals and ingredients. They avoid the use of common nail polish irritants in their formulatio, and understanding what they are and how they work can help you differentiate toxic from non-toxic nail paint formulas. Check out the infographic below that lists the most common irritants that are avoided in the making of non-toxic nail polishes.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Just like skin care and makeup products, your manicure products can also be non-toxic. It is time to ditch those traditional nail polishes loaded with harsh chemicals that can cause harm to your nails and cuticles. The best non-toxic nail polishes do not contain chemicals like formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate. Instead, they are formulated with natural plant-based ingredients that provide a smooth finish and are biodegradable. The Sally Hansen Good.Kind.Pure. Nail Polish – Elderflower Power comes with plant-based bristles and remains easy to apply while the Karma Hues Organic Nail Polish comes with a strengthening formula, ideal for kids and teens. The Sophi Nail Polish is safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. These are vegan, chip-resistant, and offer long-lasting results. However, some nail polishes require double coats based on the intensity of the color and the celebrity-inspired nail look you want to achieve. Our detailed buying guide will help you choose the best non-toxic nail polish that compliments your skin tone.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Srijita De, is a makeup enthusiast and loves trying out new products before recommending them to users. She understands how various ingredients in nail polishes get absorbed into the body. So she has come up with a list of toxin-free products that provide a long-lasting finish. To back up her expertise, she has also gone through hundreds of reviews posted online to consider users’ experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is non-toxic nail polish safe?
Yes, it is comparatively a safe nail polish to use especially if you are prone to changing your nail colors often.
Does non-toxic nail polish smell bad?
No, they do not. Non-toxic nail polishes, especially ones that are free from camphor are less likely to smell harsh. Most non-toxic nail colors are low-odor formulas.
Is non-toxic nail polish safe for babies?
It is recommended not to use nail polishes for babies, but non-toxic formulas are safe to use for children above the ages of 5.
Is OPI polish non-toxic?
Yes, OPI nail polishes do not have toxins like toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP (Dibutyl phthalate- a plasticizer) which are common toxins in generic nail polishes.
Are nails healthier without polish?
Yes, some ingredients in nail polishes can dry out your nails and the surrounding cuticles. Do not use nail polish for a long time at a stretch and keep your fingers well-moisturized.
Do nail polishes affect your health?
Only toxic nail polishes can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation. They can also increase the risk of cancer, reproductive issues, and respiratory issues.
Are all nail polishes toxic?
No, there are gentle nail polishes available in the market that are made without toxic ingredients. These polishes are generally xylene-free, camphor-free, formaldehyde-free, resin-free, acetone-free, DBP-free, ethyl acetate-free, and toluene-free.
Read full bio of Beth Brown
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