Additional Resources:

Safer Nail Products

A 2012 study conducted by the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) revealed that numerous nail care products sampled in the San Francisco Bay Area displayed toxic-free claims that weren’t supported by laboratory testing. The study provided a snapshot of whether potentially harmful chemicals could be found in available products.

The Safer Consumer Products regulations, which took effect on October 1, 2013, requires manufacturers, or other responsible entities, to seek safer alternatives to harmful chemical ingredients in widely used products. The programs 2015-17 Priority Product Work Plan details the product categories from which the Department will select Priority Products. Beauty, Personal Care, and Hygiene products, and specifically nail care products, are identified as potential candidates in the Work Plan. The Department's 2012 study and recent articles in the New York Times and Los Angeles Times highlight why nail products are one of many beauty and personal care products DTSC will consider when choosing the next products subject to the Safer Consumer Product regulations. These regulations create an opportunity for California to lead the way in producing safer versions of goods already in demand around the world. For more information visit the Safer Consumer Products web page.

Current News Regarding the Nail Salon Industry

Women Exposed to Potential Toxin in Nail Polish
October 21, 2015, WeNews
Study finds toxic chemical in nail polish
October 19, 2015, The Hill
Push Underway To End Hazardous Chemical Use At CA Nail Salons
August 21, 2015, Rosemont Patch
Bay Area Lawmaker Seeks To Remove Hazardous Chemicals From Nail Salons Statewide
August 20, 2015, PTV News
How some nail salons in California are finding a less toxic way to work
June 8, 2015, PRI (Public Radio International)
Should you be worried about your manicure habit?
June 3, 2015, Crain's (Chicago Business)
California DTSC Could Target Salon Beauty Products For Alternative Analyses
May 19, 2015, Pharma & MedTech Business Intelligence
Raphael: Pretty shouldn't stink
May 19, 2015, The San Francisco Examiner
Curb nail salon worker abuse
May 19, 2015, The Sacramento Bee
De Blasio Says New York Will Investigate Nail Industry Practices
May 15, 2015, The New York Times
Report Shines Spotlight on Toxic Chemicals, Worker Abuse Inside Nail Salons
May 12, 2015, ChemInfo
Justice for Nail Salon Workers
May 11, 2015, The New York Times
Perfect Nails, Poisoned Workers
May 8, 2015, The New York Times
Are California nail salons safe for workers?
May 8, 2015, Los Angeles Times

Guidance on Becoming a "Green" Nail Salon

Reduce your use of harmful chemicals to become a greener nail salon! The following checklist can help salons identify work practices to become a healthier, more sustainable business: