I want to pamper myself during my pregnancy and get a pedicure, but I’m worried about the toxins in nail polish. What are the alternatives?

Green may be the trend, but girls still just wanna have fun, and sometimes life just demands a little color on the toes. Unfortunately, conventional nail polish is one of the most toxic of toxic beauty supplies. With a nasty mix of phthalates, formaldehyde, and a host of other VOC’s (volatile organic compounds), plus the acetone you need to remove those pretty colors, one might be tempted to sullenly give up the mani/pedi treat. Fortunately, one does not need to get quite so desperate. The last few years have seen the introduction of several non-toxic nail polish companies. Take a look at the list of companies that have signed the Compact for Safe Cosmetics. (Visit Safe Cosmetics for more details on this compact and other related information.)

Though I would still suggest being a little more cautious (having your nails done in a well ventilated room and perhaps a little less frequently) the following companies offer excellent choices. So next time you go to the salon, BYOP (Bring Your Own Polish), ask them to open a window for fresh air, and enjoy!

Honey Bee Gardens offers two choices:
Water based peel off polish with no toluene, xylene, formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, or FD&C colors. When you’re done, you just peel off the polish and wash nails thoroughly with soap and water. It’s a great option for those of you whose hormones are ruling the place right now and thus need to change your mind on a daily basis.

Water based non-peel off polish in 16 fabulous shades and also free of harmful toxins.

Anise nail colors were created to bring women “beautiful nails without harmful chemicals.” A glorious range of colors and no toxins, plus they adhere to a strict policy of no animal testing and no animal by-products - so they’re PETA friendly too.

PeaceKeeper Cause-metics natural mineral based nail polishes are rated one of the safest paint-based nail polishes in the world. Made with Argan Oil, they are rich in Amino Acids that nurture the nails while adding some glam.

Now the biggest question still remains: Will you be able to see your tootsies beneath your tummy? If you’re not there yet, pay heed. It is quite a shocker when one discovers that feet are no longer a visible part of one’s body. But what you get at the end of this wild pregnancy journey is well worth the wild ride!