The 12 Non-Toxic Nail Polish Brands to Try

I’m lucky enough to have explored countless beauty products, from hair care to skincare and everything in between. But one category that has increasingly piqued my interest is nail polish. More specifically, non-toxic nail polish brands. The world of beauty is evolving, and many people, myself included, are paying closer attention to what’s in the products we use. That’s why discovering non-toxic nail polishes has been a total game-changer for me.
If you’re someone who loves having perfectly polished nails but also wants to prioritize health and safety, you’re not alone. Many traditional nail polishes contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to our bodies and the environment. So, in this blog, I’ll share everything you need to know about non-toxic nail polishes, why they’re worth the switch, and a roundup of the best brands to try. Keep scrolling for my honest review and recommendations!
Why Choose Non-Toxic Nail Polish?
Before we dive into specific brands, let’s talk about what makes nail polish non-toxic and why it matters. Conventional nail polishes often contain harmful chemicals like:
Formaldehyde: Used as a hardening agent, this chemical is a known carcinogen.
Toluene: Helps polish apply smoothly but can cause headaches, dizziness, and even damage to the nervous system.
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP): Used to prevent chipping, but it’s been linked to reproductive health issues.
Camphor: While it gives polish a glossy finish, inhaling it in large amounts can be toxic.
Formaldehyde Resin: Similar to formaldehyde, it can trigger skin allergies.
Many non-toxic polishes are marketed as “3-free,” “5-free,” “10-free,” or even “21-free,” depending on the number of harmful chemicals they avoid. Switching to non-toxic nail polish isn’t just better for your health but also better for the planet. These formulas are often vegan, cruelty-free, and made with eco-friendly ingredients.
How to Spot a Great Non-Toxic Brand
When shopping for non-toxic nail polishes, there are a few things to look out for:
Transparency: Look for brands that clearly list ingredients on their packaging or website.
Certifications: Vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly certifications are a bonus.
Performance: Just because it’s non-toxic doesn’t mean it should compromise on color payoff or longevity.
Variety: A great brand should offer a range of shades and finishes to suit every mood and occasion.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into the fun part—exploring the best non-toxic nail polish brands available right now!
12 Non-Toxic Nail Polish Brands to Try
1. Zoya
Zoya is often hailed as the pioneer of non-toxic nail polishes. It’s a 10-free brand, meaning it avoids ten common harmful chemicals found in traditional nail polishes. What I love most about Zoya is its extensive shade range—over 400 colors! From soft pastels to bold, edgy hues, there’s something for everyone.
Why I Love It:
Long-lasting formula that resists chipping.
Free from parabens and formaldehyde.
Vegan and cruelty-free.
2. Olive & June
This brand is all about creating a salon-quality experience at home. Olive & June offers 7-free polishes that are easy to apply, thanks to their innovative wide brush. They also provide complete manicure kits, making it perfect for beginners.
Why I Love It:
The polishes dry quickly and have a glossy finish.
Gorgeous, trend-driven shades.
The brand’s manicure system makes DIY nails effortless.
3. Butter London
Butter London has been a favorite of mine for years. Their 10-free formula is enriched with ingredients like bamboo extract, which helps strengthen nails over time. The brand also offers a variety of finishes, from metallics to creamy mattes.
Why I Love It:
Chip-resistant and long-wearing.
Infused with nail-nourishing ingredients.
Elegant, high-end packaging.
4. Ella + Mila
If you’re looking for adorable packaging and a 17-free formula, Ella + Mila is your brand. It’s particularly great for kids and anyone with sensitive skin, as the formulas are hypoallergenic.
Why I Love It:
Wide range of colors and finishes.
Affordable price point.
Certified by PETA as cruelty-free and vegan.
5. Tenoverten
Minimalists, rejoice! Tenoverten specializes in chic, understated shades that are perfect for everyday wear. Their polishes are 8-free and enriched with vitamins to promote nail health.
Why I Love It:
Subtle, sophisticated color palette.
Strengthens nails over time.
Free from animal-derived ingredients.
6. Sundays
This New York-based brand is known for its 10-free, non-toxic formulas and luxurious feel. Sundays is committed to wellness and self-care, which shows in its calming color palette and simple, elegant branding.
Why I Love It:
Perfect for anyone seeking a minimalist aesthetic.
Long-lasting and chip-resistant.
Free from artificial fragrances and harsh chemicals.
7. Pacifica
Pacifica is a household name in clean beauty, and their nail polishes are no exception. These 7-free polishes come in a variety of trendy and classic shades, and they’re 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
Why I Love It:
Affordable and widely available.
Fun, vibrant colors with excellent opacity.
Free of parabens and phthalates.
8. Kure Bazaar
This luxury nail polish brand combines fashion-forward colors with an eco-friendly formula. Kure Bazaar is 10-free and incorporates up to 85% natural ingredients like wood pulp, wheat, and cotton.
Why I Love It:
Stunning, runway-inspired shades.
Quick-drying and long-lasting.
Made with up to 85% natural ingredients.
9. Piggy Paint
Looking for a kid-friendly option? Piggy Paint is a water-based, non-toxic nail polish that’s safe for children and adults alike. It’s free from harsh chemicals and has minimal odor, making it perfect for little ones.
Why I Love It:
Safe for all ages.
Dries to a hard, durable finish.
Comes in playful, bright colors.
10. Côte
Côte offers a luxurious, 10-free formula that’s perfect for anyone seeking a healthier alternative to traditional nail polish. Their polishes are vegan, cruelty-free, and come in recyclable packaging.
Why I Love It:
Eco-conscious brand with sustainable packaging.
Wide range of shades from neutrals to bold colors.
Smooth, streak-free application.
11. Nailberry
Nailberry is a 12-free, award-winning nail polish brand that focuses on breathable formulas. Their polishes allow air and moisture to pass through, keeping your nails healthy and happy.
Why I Love It:
Breathable formula prevents nail damage.
Long-wearing and highly pigmented.
Winner of multiple beauty awards.
12. Manucurist
This French brand offers a chic, plant-based alternative to traditional nail polish. Manucurist’s polishes are 9-free and made with up to 84% natural ingredients, including potato, corn, and wheat.
Why I Love It:
Plant-based and eco-friendly.
Ultra-glossy finish.
Sleek, modern packaging.
Tips for Using Non-Toxic Nail Polishes
Switching to non-toxic nail polish is a fantastic step, but there are a few tips to ensure you get the best results:
Prep Your Nails: Always start with clean, dry nails. Use a non-toxic nail polish remover to get rid of any residue.
Base Coat Matters: Invest in a good non-toxic base coat to protect your nails and help the polish adhere better.
Thin Layers Are Key: Apply two to three thin layers of polish rather than one thick coat. This helps the polish dry faster and prevents bubbling.
Seal the Deal: Finish with a high-quality topcoat to extend the life of your manicure.
Nourish Your Nails: Keep your nails healthy by using cuticle oil and moisturizing regularly.
Conclusion
Switching to non-toxic nail polish is an easy, impactful way to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals while still enjoying beautiful, polished nails. Whether you’re a nail art enthusiast or prefer a classic nude manicure, there’s a non-toxic brand out there for you, the options are endless.
So, the next time you’re shopping for nail polish, consider trying one of these non-toxic brands. Your nails—and the planet—will thank you!