Our IngredientsUpdated a year ago

At Esmio, providing our customers with a safe beauty routine is extremely important to us. We have perfected our very own high-quality products without any of the known carcinogens and toxins that have been previously associated with gel polish.

"12-free" refers to the absence of 12 specific potentially harmful chemicals that are commonly found in traditional nail polish formulations. These chemicals are excluded from our Esmio nail products to create a safer and less toxic option for our customers. 

What are the 10 chemicals NOT in Esmio's One Step Gel Polish range?

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is most used in gel polish as a hardening agent. As it is a carcinogen, this chemical is know to cause skin irritation, allergic reactions and has been linked to nasal and lung cancers. 

Toluene

You know that nostalgic yet toxic smell that comes from some nail polish, that is the very pungent smell of Toluene. This chemical helps to suspend the colour pigments in the nail polish evenly when applied to create a smooth finish. Toluene has been linked to affecting the nervous system through headaches, nausea, eye irritation, and most severely, birth defects.

Dibutyl Phthalate (DBT)

DBP is used as a plasticiser and solvent which makes nail polish more flexible and less likely to chip. This chemical has been linked to reproductive issues, birth defects and fertility issues when it is absorbed into the skin.

Camphor

Synthetic camphor is used to create that ultra-glossy finish. Over exposure to this chemical can cause nausea, dizziness and headaches. 

Formaldehyde Resin

Formaldehyde Resin is used as a nail hardener. This chemical can cause irritation to the skin and can be toxic to our immune system. 

Xylene

Xylene is used to thin out nail polish so it does not form a clumpy consistency and is most often used in the manufacture of cement and gasoline. As it has a strong fume, over-exposure or skin absorption can harm the renal system, liver and kidneys.

Parabens

Parabens are used widely in the cosmetic industry as a preservative. Due to the estrogen mimicking effects it has been linked to hormonal abnormalities.

Fragrances

Fragrances are used to make polish smell a certain way. However, it is often made of proprietary blends of different ingredients which can cause skin irritations such as redness, itching, hives and eczema flareups.

Phthalates

Phthalates are used to bend products a certain way by giving it flexibility and has been linked to some cancers. 

Ethyl Tosylamide

Ethyl Tosylamide is a chemical used in nail polish as a plasticizer and film-forming agent. It enhances the polish's flexibility and durability, aiding in longer-lasting manicures.

Triphenyl Phosphate (TPHP)

Triphenyl Phosphate is a chemical often found in nail polish as a plasticizer and flame retardant. It can enhance nail polish flexibility but has raised health concerns due to potential side effects.

Our nail products also exclude animal ingredients, setting them apart from others, creating a vegan and cruelty-free polish option.

We emphasise the significance of carefully examining and researching the components in the products we apply to our bodies. If you are using products containing these ingredients, we highly recommend seeking alternatives.