At the forefront of the nail care industry, technicians and businesses must be knowledgeable about all the products and services that come out in the market. Organic and non-toxic nail polishes have been around for a while, but they’re still a mystery for many people. There are a few things to consider before offering them on the service list.
1. Defining Clean Polishes
Nail products have a reputation for containing toxic ingredients. If you hear “non-toxic,” you might think they’re entirely natural. However, that’s not always the case—the USDA states that products must have a minimum of 95% organic ingredients to count as organic. The FDA, which regulates cosmetics, doesn’t have guidelines to define what constitutes non-toxic.
Organic nail products use minimal synthetic ingredients to achieve a smooth look. The application of these products can be much safer for people, especially those with sensitive cuticles and skin.
Nail technicians and professionals should still follow the main safety guidelines when applying nail products. A well-ventilated area is ideal, as low-toxic polishes may still have solvents that you or the clients should not inhale.
2. Assessing Ingredient List
The ingredients in organic nail products vary. Most brands offer 10-free polishes, which indicates that they remove the 10 most common toxic ingredients that are typically in nail polish.
According to Julie K Nail Artelier founder Julie Kandalec, 10-free products exclude ingredients like formaldehyde, toluene and parabens. There are even 15-free or 20-free products that claim to omit even more of those components. However, this claim could be a marketing tactic — products may have less popular yet still toxic ingredients.
It’s best to check the ingredient list before purchasing. You should generally avoid camphor, parabens, acetone and xylene to name a few. Research unfamiliar component names to discover their toxicity levels.
It’s also good to know what organic ingredients offer. For instance, coconut, avocado and jojoba oil are known for moisturizing nails and surrounding skin. Vitamin E is also a popular antioxidant that nourishes and strengthens nails.
3. Reading Brand Reviews
Some organic and non-toxic nail products may underperform as they lack the necessary ingredients to work like paint. It’s worth reading brand reviews before committing to sheer or streaky products. Nail techs and professionals should especially vet their purchases if they buy polishes in bulk.
You could also look up recommendations online or from fellow nail care enthusiasts. Seek authentic experiences rather than sponsored posts to read an unbiased opinion and learn the pros and cons behind a product.
4. Gauging Prices
Organic nail products come at different price points. There are non-toxic regular polishes, gel polishes, dip powder and many other options on the market. Depending on your salon’s specialties, you could invest in multiple forms to have more flexible options.
If you’re introducing low-toxic nail products, choose regular polishes first. Gel nail polish requires extra special nail care equipment like a UV or LED lamp, which requires a bigger investment than your standard ones.
5. Educating Clients
Clients may be curious about the non-toxic nail products you offer. Others may also have initial misconceptions, like whether they’re completely free of synthetics or cheaper than regular nail care products.
Have a detailed and informative discussion with your clients. Explain what ingredients have been omitted and compare it with regular polishes. If they have additional questions, entertain them for a fully informed nail application experience.
It’s also good to discuss the newer ingredients. For example, an organic nail brand will likely replace synthetic fragrances with botanical ones. Some people are sensitive to natural scents that irritate their skin, so you may need alternatives.
6. Handling Organic Nail Products
Nail products with organic ingredients tend to have a shorter shelf life, as they lack some of the preservatives standard ones contain. Thus, proper storage practices for these cosmetics, like keeping them away from sunlight and labeling expiry dates, are necessary.
Organic nail polishes usually act like ordinary products when expired, from drying out and separating. The color and smell may also change. Avoid using them on clients and dispose of them responsibly. Replace as needed.
7. Marketing Non-Toxic Offerings
Non-toxic nail products are marketable. They keep nails, cuticles and skin much healthier, which can be a big selling point. Customers looking for a gentle and safe application may be more inclined to use your services.
There’s also the matter of eco-friendliness. Synthetics can pollute the environment and take too long to dissolve. About 35% of U.S. consumers are seeking personal care products free from harmful chemicals. Around 30% of the same pool are already buying organic products instead of conventionally produced ones.
Go Clean With Nail Products
Get informed about what organic and non-toxic nail products have to offer. Nail technicians and businesses that provide these offerings can gain new customers and enjoy greater loyalty in the long run.
