Formaldehyde
Preservative
Formaldehyde is a chemical used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in nail polish. It's also used to help the polish dry faster and last longer.
Source: FDA GRAS list
Formaldehyde is considered a high concern due to its potential to cause cancer and respiratory problems, but it's still allowed in nail polish in small amounts.
r/todayilearned
TIL Henry Heinz deliberately put his ketchup in clear glass bottles which was uncommon due to a lack of food safety standards. unethical companies used colored bottles to hide shoddy product and he worked with a chemist who went on to find foods containing gypsum, brick dust, borax, formaldehyde etc
The Toxic Price of Beauty: Impact of Common Nail and Hair Care Products on Indoor Air Quality and Effectiveness of Air Purification.
Grigoryants J, Miller S
2025
Read on PubMedRelated Ingredients
Last updated: May 16, 2026