How much nail paint is too much? Here are ALL the side effects of applying too much nail enamel

Nail polish was first used almost 3000 years ago, in China and has since become an obsession among women and girls all over the world. Initially, the colours were made from organic products like beeswax, egg whites, fish-bone powder and naturally available dyes. But with time, chemicals have seeped in and made their way into the coloured paint which we apply on our fingers today. Today, everything from organic polymers and many other synthetic components are added to nail paints which is not the best news for those who love to have their nails done at all times. 

Here are just a few of the thousands of chemicals present in nail polishes and how they could effect you:

DPHP

A group of researchers have found out that applying nail polish introduces a chemical compound Diphenyl Phosphate - DPHP which is highly toxic in nature to the body. This compound is known to disrupt hormones in the bodies of animals. 

Toluene

This is the chemical which helps in the smooth application of the paint all across the nail and is even used in car paints! It ensures the the colours do not separate and remain intact in the bottle. This chemical is known to harm the reproductive system and central nervous system! 

Formaldehyde 

The basic act of this chemical is to disinfect. It is used in medical laboratories on dead bodies and is also known for a cause of cancer when applied directly on the body!

Dibutyl Phthalate 

This is a kind of adhesive which has been banned in multiple countries as it is suspected to harm the endocrine system and reproductive system. It also results in skin irritation, eye injury and causes allergic reactions. It is a substance which is known to give nail paints flexibility. 

These chemicals also come with short term effects which include everything from breathing problems to skin irritations and even headaches! 

While many brands have refrained from using toxic ingredients, they are more expensive in the market. 

But this does not mean you need to cut off from painting your nails for good! The occasional mani-pedi is fine and there is no need to panic. As long as you are not going overboard with usage and not allowing the nail polish to remain on your nails for more than two weeks at a time, significant harm will not be done. 

Ensure you consume foods rich in Vitamin E, zinc and proteins during this time though, to ensure your nails are nourished during these periods. Almond and castor oil is also excellent for nail health.  

Pregnant woman though, should refrain from applying nail polish.