Which nail polish should a pregnant woman choose?

Pregnancy can be a frustrating time for a woman as she sees her range of possible activities diminish over the months. The same goes for cosmetics. Some contain active ingredients that pose a risk during pregnancy. Nail polishes are no exception and their use by pregnant women is often discouraged.

Indeed, most "traditional" nail polishes contain substances that are toxic to the fetus when inhaled. Once these substances are present in the mother's bloodstream, they can easily reach the placenta. It's important to note that blood circulation between the mother and child is established as early as the fourth week of pregnancy.

Among the main substances found in nail polish that are contraindicated for pregnant women, we can mention the formaldehyde. It is classified as a "possible carcinogen for humans" in Europe and is considered a potential endocrine disruptor. As a reminder, an endocrine disruptor is a substance capable of disrupting hormonal function.

We also frequently find toluene in nail polishes. This irritating solvent emits an odor that can exacerbate nausea in pregnant women. Moreover, a recent study has correlated high exposure to toluene during pregnancy with the birth of a baby suffering from hydranencephaly, a severe brain abnormality. While researchers themselves are not entirely sure of the established link between toluene and the disease, it is preferable in such situations to apply the principle of precaution.

phthalates , the formaldehyde , the parabens , the camphor , the benzophenone , the xylene , the styrene and the rosin .