If you’ve browsed our Go For Zero website, you might have noticed we don’t sell nail polish. And before you gasp and clutch your painted nails, hear us out. It’s not because we’re anti-glossy tips or secretly jealous of your mani, in fact we used to stock a vegan,  “10-free” nail polish in the past to offer a better alternative to a product made from harsh ingredients.

Here’s the lowdown on why you don’t find it in our low-tox store , and what you can do instead to keep your nails looking fab, naturally.

The Hidden Ingredients Nobody Talks About

Nail polish may look cute in the bottle, but under that glossy surface lurks a cocktail of chemicals you wouldn't want on your body, e.g. formaldehyde, resins, toluene, phthalates and more. Formaldehyde, for example, is a preservative that’s been recognised by the U.S. National Toxicology Program as a carcinogen. These sneaky chemicals can irritate your skin, cause contact dermatitis and even trigger headaches. 

Over the years, the popularity of gel manicures has also increased exposure to some of these substances. In fact, the European Union recently banned certain ingredients in gel nail products due to health concerns, highlighting just how seriously regulators are taking this issue. You can read more about that shake-up here.

What about x-free nail polish?

If you’re after colour for a special occasion (we get it), there are brands out there that make “3-free”, “7-free’ and even “10-free” polishes. These formulas avoid some of the nastiest chemicals commonly found in conventional polish. Whilst they are a safer alternative for when you want a pop of polish, it’s important to remember that they won’t be 100% toxin-free. These polishes can still contain other harsh synthetic ingredients, so we always recommend reading the full ingredient list so that you can make an informed choice.

Nail Polish and the Environment

It’s not just your nails that take a hit. Nail polish also contains plasticisers, so when it chips off, those microplastics and toxins end up in the environment.

Even the bottles are problematic. Most nail polishes come in glass with tiny plastic brushes that are hard to recycle. Add chemical residue, and you’ve got a little eco-nightmare that can't be properly recycled, so it ends up in landfill.

Sustainable Self-Care Alternatives 

At Go For Zero, we like our products genuinely clean. Nail polish? Unfortunately, it’s not quite there. So, if we’re skipping the polish aisle, what’s a nail lover to do? 

1. Buff and shine naturally

A simple clean with a nail brush, a file, and a buff can give your nails a glossy finish without touching a chemical bottle. Bonus points: it actually strengthens nails and stimulates blood flow. Think of it as your nails’ own little spa session, leaving them healthy, happy and totally natural. 

2. Oils and hand creams

Nourishing oils like jojoba oil and natural hand creams do more than just moisturise, they help keep your natural nails strong, healthy, and resilient by deeply hydrating your skin and cuticles. Regular use of a moisturiser will support nail growth, prevent brittleness leaving your nails and hands feeling soft and naturally radiant.

3. Other ways to treat yourself

For many, manicures and pedicures are a way to treat themselves to a bit of pamper time. You can extend that to your whole body with sustainable and non-toxic products. Think relaxing bath soaks, natural skin care, naturopathically formulated balms and magnesium oils. Explore our sustainable self-care range from some of your favourite brands.

Healthy Nails, Happy Planet

Skipping traditional nail polish may seem like a tiny change, but it makes a real difference. Fewer chemicals in your body, less plastic in the environment, and nails that are genuinely healthier. Next time you reach for a bottle, consider buffing, moisturising and rocking your natural nails instead.

Small swaps like this add up, your nails and the planet will thank you.

With Love, 
Ellie