Is Nail Polish safe during pregnancy?
Routine manicures and pedicures have no known increased risks for pregnancy or a breastfed baby. Use good ventilation.
What the sources say
MotherToBaby says the small amounts of solvents (toluene, acetone), formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate absorbed or inhaled during routine nail treatments are not expected to raise risks for a pregnancy or breastfed baby. Good airflow keeps exposure low; take a break if you feel dizzy or nauseated. Nail salon workers have higher exposures and should discuss them with their provider. Some people are allergic to formaldehyde resins in polish.
Also listed as
10-free nail polish, 3-free nail polish, 5-free nail polish, nail enamel, nail lacquer, nail varnish
Sources
- MotherToBaby: Nailing Down the Facts: Nail Treatment Safety in Pregnancy
- MotherToBaby: Working in a Nail Salon
- FDA: Nail Care Products
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.