Nail polish has become a regular part of many beauty routines, adding colour and style to everyday looks. But recent claims suggesting that nail polish can cause cancer have raised concerns among users. So, is there really a cancer risk associated with nail polish, or has the issue been exaggerated?
The answer depends largely on the chemicals involved, how often the products are used and the level of exposure.
What Is the ‘Toxic Trio’ in Nail Polish?
Some older and cheaper nail polishes contained three chemicals commonly referred to as the “toxic trio” — formaldehyde, toluene and dibutyl phthalate (DBP).
Formaldehyde is used to help harden nail polish and is classified by the WHO as a Group 1 carcinogen. Toluene helps the polish dry quickly but can affect organs, while DBP helps prevent the polish from chipping and has been linked to possible hormonal effects.
For people who use nail polish occasionally, the risk from these chemicals is considered low. However, salon professionals who handle such products regularly may face greater exposure, making proper ventilation especially important.
Many modern nail products are now marketed as “3-free” or “10-free”, meaning they leave out certain potentially concerning chemicals.
Are Gel Manicure UV Lamps a Cancer Risk?
Gel manicures have also raised questions because the polish is cured under UV lamps. A 2023 study found that UV exposure from these devices caused DNA damage in laboratory cells.
However, laboratory experiments using cells in dishes do not directly represent what happens to human skin during a real manicure. Dermatologists say UV exposure can contribute to skin damage and ageing, but the cancer risk associated with an occasional gel manicure is considered very low. The US FDA also describes these lamps as low-risk devices.
What Do Experts Say About Nail Polish and Cancer?
Doctors say there is no strong evidence that occasional nail polish use directly causes cancer.
For most users, more common problems may include allergic reactions, skin redness or weakened nails rather than cancer. The situation is different for beauticians and salon workers who may come into contact with nail polish chemicals on a daily basis. They should take appropriate precautions to reduce their exposure.
How to Use Nail Polish More Safely
Checking the ingredients before buying nail polish can be a simple way to reduce exposure to certain chemicals. Products labelled “5-free” or “10-free” are options that do not contain some chemicals such as formaldehyde or toluene.
For gel manicures, experts also suggest applying SPF 30+ sunscreen to the hands 15–20 minutes beforehand. Fingerless UV-protection gloves can provide another option.
Keeping the salon or room well ventilated is also important, particularly when nail products are being used regularly. Giving your nails a break from polish from time to time can also help maintain their condition.
Overall, the viral claim that nail polish directly causes cancer does not reflect the available evidence for occasional users. The greater concern is repeated exposure to certain chemicals, particularly for people who work with these products every day.