Best Non-Toxic Nail Polish Finds for a Beautiful, Healthy Shine
If you’re the type to check ingredient labels at the store, it might be time to check your nail polishes, too. A fresh manicure can make you feel like you’ve got it all together, but most polishes come with harsh chemicals that aren’t good for you or the planet, like formaldehyde or phthalates.
Luckily, there’s a growing list of non-toxic nail polish brands that give glossy, chip-resistant colors without questionable ingredients. In this guide, we’re letting you in on the best non-toxic nail polish picks for a healthier, more sustainable mani.
What is Non-Toxic Nail Polish, Anyway?
Non-toxic nail polishes are products made with clean, non-toxic ingredients, free from the common toxins found in traditional polishes. They’re usually labeled 3-free, 5-free, or even 10-free (depending on how many bad ingredients they’ve cut out). The higher the number, the cleaner the formula. The good news is that brands are improving their formulas to be both safe and long-lasting.
Common Nail Polish Toxins to Avoid
When shopping for polish, steer clear of these common culprits:
- Formaldehyde: A toxic chemical and carcinogen typically used to harden polish, but also used in embalming
- Toluene: A solvent that has been shown to potentially disrupt and interfere with your nervous system
- Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP): Linked to hormonal and reproductive issues
- Camphor: May cause nausea and dizziness in high doses
- Formaldehyde Resin: A sneaky toxin known to irritate your skin
- Triphenyl Phosphate (TPHP): Potentially disrupts hormones like endocrine
- Xylene: Another ingredient that can trigger headaches and dizziness
Top 5 Non-Toxic Nail Polish Finds: How We Chose
We selected our top picks based on the following factors:
- Ingredient Safety: We only chose nail polish finds that are free from harmful chemicals.
- Performance: A gorgeous manicure is great, but only if it actually lasts – that’s why we looked for polishes that are long-lasting and chip-resistant.
- Color Range: Just one shade won’t do! We looked for brands that offer a nice variety of shades to suit every style.
- Eco-Friendliness: As always, we care about minimizing the harm done to the planet when we shop, which means we prioritize sellers who do the same through sustainable packaging and practices.
Our Picks
All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author and DGHQ editors. However, Do Good HQ may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.
1. ella+mila
| Made Without | formaldehyde, toluene, phthalates, parabens, and more |
| Colors Available | Wide range including neutrals, pastels, darks, and bold hues |
| Price Range | $$ |
Designed with safety and style in mind, polishes from ella+mila are a favorite for both youngins and adults. Their non-toxic nail polishes are vegan and cruelty-free, and they truly go the extra mile to keep toxic formulas out while keeping in vibrant, trendy shades.
Highlights
ella+mila boasts 17-free, non-toxic nail polishes, all PETA-certified. They’re safe for kids, pregnant folks, and those with allergic sensitivities. These polishes are both chip-resistant and quick-drying.
Things to Consider
Users really love their wide collections, but some do note that a few formulas need a top coat for longer wear. Bottles also come slightly smaller than your average polish.
2. Pleasing
| Made Without | 12-free formula, without formaldehyde, toluene, acetone, and more |
| Colors Available | Curated collections, including creams, pearls, and metallics |
| Price Range | $$$ |
Pleasing is more than a celebrity brand. Harry Styles seriously made a stylish option in the non-toxic nail polish world. While it’s more of a luxe pick, you’re getting polish that looks and feels high-end from bottle to brush.
Highlights
We love that when you shop with this brand, each color feels like a mini art piece. The best part, though? All the formulas are 12-free, cruelty-free, and vegan. With gorgeous collectible packaging, you also get unique shades and finishes you won’t find elsewhere.
Things to Consider
Pleasing comes with a premium price tag compared to drugstore brands. It’s also worth noting that their shade selection is limited to seasonal drops and curated sets.
3. Olive & June
| Made Without | 15-free from toxic ingredients, including formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP |
| Colors Available | over 100 shades |
| Price Range | $ |
Olive & June has become a cult classic for good reason. Their non-toxic nail polish is easy to apply, extra glossy, and comes in a range of modern, swoon-worthy shades.
Highlights
We think these are definitely some of the best non-toxic nail polish picks if you’re looking for affordability and performance. Being 15-free and cruelty-free, they’re also beginner-friendly and offer a bunch of mani tools if you want the full salon experience at home.
Things to Consider
With over 100 shades, not everything can turn out perfect. Users do report that some shades may require multiple coats for full opacity.
4. Zoya
| Made Without | 10-free from toxic ingredients |
| Colors Available | Up to 600 colors |
| Price Range | $$ |
Zoya is one of the OGs in the non-toxic nail polish movement, and they’re still leading the pack with vibrant, affordable products. With a massive library of colors and professional-grade performance, Zoya is a go-to for salons and clean beauty fanatics alike.
Highlights
Zoya is doing it all with up to 10-free clean ingredients and a huge color variety for all styles and shades. Whether it’s a sheer nude, a bright neon for summer, or a rich wine red for fall, you’re sure to find something that matches your vibe.
Things to Consider
Certified users report a good week of wear from Zoya’s polishes, but some have noted that certain shades, particularly light or pastel ones, can come out sheer, streaky, or slower to dry.
5. Manucurist
| Made Without | formaldehyde, toluene, animal products, camphor, and more |
| Colors Available | Up to 90 colors |
| Price Range | $$$ |
We would describe Manucurist as a French beauty brand meets green science. It’s one of the most stylish and sustainable non-toxic nail polishes out there. With plant-based and cruelty-free products, they’re kind to nails and our planet.
Highlights
In addition to chic packaging and fashion-forward colors, they are vegan and kind to animals. Formulated with 12-free ingredients, they’re really committed to that eco-conscious lifestyle for those looking for luxury nails.
Things to Consider
Manucurist is definitely on the higher-end of non-toxic nail polishes. Since it’s based in Paris, they may have limited availability in US stores. It’s probably best to shop their products online.
How to Choose the Best Non-Toxic Nail Polish
As you browse the market for the best non-toxic nail polishes, keep reminders like these in mind so you get the best bang for your buck.
- Check the Label: Non-toxic nail polishes are typically formulated with at least 5-free or more ingredients. Make sure your pick fits the bill before you hit “add to cart.”
- Think Performance: Reviews matter. Some clean formulas may last longer than others, and each non-toxic nail polish brand may have different products, some of which might be a better fit for you than others.
- Color Selection: From neutrals to neons, it’s good to find your signature shades. Look for brands that match your aesthetic as well as your sustainability preferences.
You don’t have to sacrifice pretty nails for peace of mind. Whether you’re into minimalist manicures or bold statement shades, there’s a non-toxic nail polish out there with your name on it.
Featured image via Olive & June
