Looking at the ingredient list on cosmetics can be tricky — it’s often full of long, unfamiliar words that few people actually know the meaning of or whether they’re toxic or not. However, many nail polishes and cosmetics may contain the “toxic trio,” formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DPB), as well as other harmful ingredients that can have damaging effects with prolonged use for anyone, but especially pregnant women and children. While many of these toxic ingredients have been banned in the European Union, many are still allowed in the United States and they may be lurking in your nail polishes and cosmetics.

To ensure you’re safe and protected while painting your nails, it is imperative to exclusively use high-quality products with non-toxic ingredients from reputable brands. Ask in the salon or purchase your own carefully. For example, SNS products are vegan, not tested on animals, don’t contain any of these harmful, toxic ingredients, and are actually formulated with vitamins and nutrients that promote healthier nails with every application. However, regardless of which products you choose to use, you should know what’s in them and what to look for. Luckily, we’ve taken the guesswork out of it for you, and below we highlight ten toxic ingredients you should avoid in your nail products and cosmetics.

1. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a “toxic trio” chemical present in numerous nail products that acts as a preservative and hardener. However, it is considered a carcinogen, and it can cause cancers, allergic reactions, asthma, nausea, and even miscarriages.

2. Toluene

Toluene is another “toxic trio” chemical commonly found in various cosmetics including nail products to promote a smooth, even application. This toxic chemical is a powerful neurotoxin that has the potential to cause neurological damage, hearing loss, impaired breathing, and brain dysfunctions. Toluene is also dangerous for pregnant women breathing it in with the potential to cause birth defects.

3. Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)

DBP is a commonly used ingredient in nail products, and one of the “toxic trio” that’s best to avoid. This harmful chemical is a plasticizer used to improve polish durability and shine. However, DBP can damage the liver, kidneys, and even negatively affect the reproductive system, impairing hormone development or causing early-onset menopause.

4. Parabens

Parabens are often used in many cosmetics as a preservative which prevents mold or bacteria from growing. However, parabens have been linked to breast cancer, as well as hormone dysfunction, and when used in nail polish, it can actually block your nail beds from getting essential vitamins and nutrients from the sun and air.

5. Lead

Many nail products may contain toxic metals such as lead which can be harmful to every organ system in the body and has been linked to various health issues. While the amount may not be immediately harmful, over exposure to nail techs or those who regularly use nail products with lead may be at risk.

6. Synthetic Sulfates

These chemicals are a common ingredient in many cosmetics which are used as a cleaning agent. Synthetic sulfates are known to irritate the eyes, skin, and mucus membranes.

7. Triethanolamine

This ingredient is often used to balance PH in products and may be used as a cleansing base. However, triethanolamine can cause allergic reactions and may be linked to cancers.

8. Triphenylphosphate (TPHP)

This toxic ingredient is another commonly used plasticizer in nail polishes which increases the durability and duration of the product. However, prolonged exposure to this chemical has been proven to be a neurotoxin and endocrine disruptor which can negatively affect reproductive health.

9. Xylene

This ingredient is often used as a solvent in nail products used to thin polishes and prevent it from getting lumpy. However, xylene is a proven common allergen which can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, and skin irritation.

10. Ethyl Tosylamide

This chemical is found in many nail polishes as it can increase durability and adhesion of the product. However, it can cause severe allergic reactions or may even have the potential to cause liver damage in some cases.