Manicure Monday: The Best in Non-Toxic Nails

As I become more conscious of the ingredients in my beloved beauty products, I’m learning to seek out the safest choices wherever I can. However, it’s a challenge to find products that are both environmentally sound and effective, especially when it comes to nail polish.

But it is possible. There are quite a few brands that boast formulas free of the three main carcinogens found in most polishes: formaldehyde, toluene and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). So I’m making it my mission to go as green as possible with my nail colors this fall.

Below, we’ve put together a list of five non-toxic shades that we’re swooning over for Fall.

Kure Bazaar Nail Polish in September

Made from wood pulp, wheat, cotton, potatoes and corn, this French import’s formula is 85% natural.  It’s also free of synthetic camphor — another nasty chemical often found in mainstream polish.

Priti NYC Nail Polish in Oleaster

Priti NYC is an eco-friendly favorite on the runways — designers such as Donna Karan, Rachel Roy, and Proenza Schouler have all used it during their New York Fashion Week presentations.

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Lovely Jubbly

Perhaps one of the best-known 3-free brands, Butter London has had a lock on non-toxic nail care since 2005.  I love their entire fall 2012 line, but this festive, sparking purple is my favorite of the bunch.

Acquarella Nail Polish in Sparkling Cider

Acquarella is great for eco-conscious gals on the go. It dries to the touch in less than three minutes, and there’s also no need for a base coat — the water-based formula hydrates the nail, preventing it from yellowing and peeling.

Scotch Naturals Nail Lacquer in Seething Jealousy

An eco-friendly alternative in more ways than one: The polish is packaged in a recyclable glass bottle and the formula itself is biodegradable.