7 WAYS TO GREEN YOUR NAIL ROUTINE
Taking good care of one’s body, especially mani-pedi, has a cost, which is not only economic. We are also talking about chemicals in nail polish. They pose a serious threat to health and the environment. Let’s find out how to achieve an eco-friendly manicure.
GREEN MANI-PEDI: THE ORIGINS
There is however good news: many sustainable nail salons are springing up in Europe, mainly in the UK. Ama Quashie, co-owner of AMA, believes that “There is an increasing number of brands turning towards green beauty. That is because clients are increasingly aware of what they put in and on their bodies. It’s only a matter of time before the old-school players follow suit with their ‘free-from’ products”.
At this stage we would like to suggest 7 ways to ensure an eco-friendly nail routine.
1. THE RITUAL
This significant ritual lacks precise regulations and licensing laws. This is where Let’s Nail It, a campaign against slavery in salons, comes in. There are warning signs of poor conditions and they teach us how to react. We once again quote Love Quashie who states:
“We try to keep everything natural and organic, from our scrubs, to creams and disinfectants. I don’t want to demonise people for wanting acrylics, it’s just about offering them an alternative. so clients can make informed decisions.”
To do so, Quashie recommends a good dose of jojoba oil: I’s really good for nail growth and for strengthening bent nails.
2. NAIL VARNISH FOR AN ECO-FRIENDLY MANICURE
Charity in this case is a powerful weapon; everything that is not used can be donated to Give and Makeup. Created by skin expert Caroline Hirons, this charity collects toiletries and clothes for women and children in need.
In fact, unwanted cosmetics in good conditions are more than welcome here.
3. INVEST IN NON-TOXIC POLISH
It seems that toxics have come to an end. Thus, many brands choose to forego formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and toluene formulas. This trio is responsible for a smooth texture, along with side effects such as headaches, dizziness, fertility disorders and cancer. Quashie believes that there is no longer a contradiction between beauty and ethics. “Many of the early free-from brands were not up to the standard of normal varnishes in terms of colours and finishes, whereas now they are. We have even had customers say that our gel-free gel lasts longer than their usual product. So you don’t have to sacrifice as it was the case five years ago”.
4. GREEN MANI-PEDI: SOLVENTS
This is where the going gets tough; you cannot just talk about nail polishes and forget chemicals in the solvents. However, there is no trick to saving the economy and the planet at the same time. Fortunately, many companies are working on solvents that will replace harsh acetone for nourishing oils. For example, Kure Bazaar’s s ginger-infused version is refreshing AF and somehow uses only 100% natural ingredients.
5. REPLACING COTTON BALLS
Just think about it: it takes seconds to clean chipped nail polish with a cotton ball, but what’s the environmental impact? In fact, cotton fields require toxic pesticides and dyes, which damage the environment, degrade the soil and destroy habitats. As a solution you can combine natural solvents with Soil Association certified organic cotton balls from Simply Gentle. They may be expensive, but the feel-good factor is worth the extra pennies. For example, Tabitha Eve’s are a one-off investment.
6. GREEN MANI-PEDI: ECOGLITTER
Not all glitter is the same, which is why we recommend being careful. Our recommendation is EcoStardust, which offers a wide selection of such an essential ingredient. Its main component is a compostable film made from eucalyptus trees. Furthermore, the company donates 10% of its profits to environmental charities. The choice is as wide as the different packaging options: recyclable cardboard, biodegradable bags or aluminium cans.
Environmentally safe glitter
7. REUSE, REUSE, REUSE
Pinterest is the go-to social site to find new ideas for reusing your old nail polish. Think, for example, of the marble effect: simple but effective All you need is a large container filled with hot water, some bright nail polish and a cocktail stick to create your design.
As you have seen, the nail care world can be easy, innovative and sustainable: you just need to choose the right products.
