It's just about time to brake out the sandals for spring, which for many women means getting a pedicure. But do you really know what's in your nail polish?
According to a new study, nail polish contains toxic chemicals that could cause cancer or birth defects.
Every day, tons of people head to the salon to get their nails lacquered. Most folks are in and out, so they're exposed to the chemicals in the nail polish may be minimal. But what about the nail technicians? "Nail salon workers and owners have a right to work in a safe and healthy workplace," said Lisa Fu, of Health Nail Salon Collaborative.
At issue are three chemicals known as the toxic trio. The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) says exposure to these chemicals may cause cancer and birth defects among other health issues. "There's short term health effects such as rashes, watering eyes or coughing and wheezing," Fu said.
Many labels claim to be free of these chemicals, but in testing on a limited number of nail polish brands, the DTSC found not all are telling the truth. Now, the department is recommending that al manufacturers be required to disclose what's in their products. For salon owner Phuoc Dam, that's the only way to solve the problem. He says regardless, he has to provide the brands that his customers demand. "They need to tell us the truth so we can trust in them," Dam said.
As for the nail polish companies, they say the report lacks perspective and balance since it fails to mention that a small amount of these chemicals are allowed in formulations by the Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA).
In a statement, the Nail Manufacturer's Council said no maker should mislead its customers, but points out that nearly all of the nail polish industry voluntarily cut down the amount of toxic chemicals years ago.
Some people are now calling for a ban of these toxic chemicals so consumers won't have to worry about choosing which types of nail polish are less toxic.
Do you think there should be a ban on these chemicals? Do you worry about exposure to toxic polish? Leave your thoughts below.
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Information courtesy of NBC News
