100% Pure Nail Polish – Elderberry

Important Note on Nail Polish

Nail polish is one of those categories where “low-tox” doesn’t mean completely non-toxic. Most formulas still rely on solvents and film-forming ingredients to perform properly. What I focus on here is reducing the most concerning ingredients while choosing options considered safer than conventional formulas.

What I Avoid

When choosing nail polish, I avoid:

  • Toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP)

  • Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives

  • Camphor in higher concentrations

  • Triphenyl phosphate (TPHP)

  • Heavy synthetic fragrance additives

Product Description

This nail polish is designed as a cleaner alternative within the category, formulated without some of the more concerning ingredients typically found in conventional polishes. Like most nail polishes, it still uses solvents and polymers to create a smooth, durable finish, but it aims to reduce the use of higher-risk components.

The formula is built to apply evenly, dry efficiently, and provide a glossy finish while maintaining a more considered ingredient profile. The color comes from a mix of pigments and colorants, allowing for a rich shade while still fitting within a “safer option” range for nail products.

Ingredients

Butyl acetate, ethyl acetate, nitrocellulose, adipic acid/neopentyl glycol/trimellitic anhydride copolymer, acetyl tributyl citrate, isopropyl alcohol, acrylates copolymer, stearalkonium bentonite, n-butyl alcohol, benzophenone-1, silica, alumina, trimethylpentanediyl dibenzoate, polyvinyl butyral, styrene/acrylates copolymer, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer.

May contain: aluminum powder (CI 77000), iron oxides (CI 77499, CI 77491), red 34 lake (CI 15880), red 6 lake (CI 15850), red 7 lake (CI 15850), yellow 5 lake (CI 19140), ferric ammonium ferrocyanide (CI 77510), mica (CI 77019), blue 1 (CI 42090), yellow 11 (CI 47000), titanium dioxide (CI 77891), violet 2 (CI 60725), ultramarines blue (CI 77007).

What I Like

  • Formulated without some of the most concerning traditional nail polish ingredients

  • Provides a smooth, even application that lasts longer than other low-tox options (especially on toes)

  • More considered formulation compared to conventional polishes

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Still contains solvents and synthetic film-formers, which are necessary for performance

  • Not a fully “non-toxic” category, even with cleaner options

  • Best used in well-ventilated areas

  • Contains synthetic colorants depending on the shade