Are Kids’ Nail Polishes Really Safe? The Facts Parents Need to Know

With little ones wanting to be pampered from a young age, mini beauty rituals are on the rise. But you may be wondering,“Are kids’ nail polishes safe?”. While painting nails can be a fun activity, safety should always be a priority. That’s why it’s important to look at the ingredients inside those bottles of nail polish. Piggy Paint is a fantastic choice, offering non-toxic, water-based formulas that let kids enjoy the fun of painted nails without compromising safety. 

Why kids aren’t just “small adults”

When it comes to painting nails, it may be tempting to hand over your own nail polish for a quiet afternoon. However, adult formulas often contain harsh chemicals that can be far more harmful to children than they are to us. That's why it is essential to choose products specifically made for kids, like Piggy Paint. Children’s skin and nails aren’t just smaller versions of ours – they're still developing, and that makes them far more sensitive to the ingredients often found in kids nail polish. 

Paediatric dermatology research from the national library of medicine shows that children’s skin is around 20% thinner than adult skin, making it more reactive to external substances. Their nails are also softer and more porous, which means they can absorb chemicals more easily. Solvent-based nail polish contains lots of chemicals. As children’s detox systems aren’t as efficient as adults’, even small amounts of chemicals can have a big impact. Hence, it is important to choose non-toxic, water-based nail polish made specifically for kids. 

The chemistry of kids’ nail polish

Most conventional nail polishes rely on chemicals such as toluene, phthalates and formaldehyde. These ingredients help the polish spread smoothly, dry quickly and last longer. However, these chemicals come with risks which are not great for kids. Toluene is a solvent linked to headaches, whilst phthalates can disrupt hormones, and formaldehyde can act as a skin irritant and potential allergen. While adults can tolerate limited exposure, children’s thinner skin and softer nails make them more vulnerable. That's why water-based, non-toxic formulas are a better choice, allowing kids to enjoy painting their nails without putting them at unnecessary risks. 

Beyond ingredients: the hidden risks

When setting up a child-friendly “mini salon” at home, it’s not just the polish ingredients you need to think about. Fumes from nail products can quickly build up in small rooms, meaning when children are painting their nails, they may inhale these toxic fumes. Strong, acetone-based removers are another hidden risk – breathing in high levels of acetone has been reported by the NHS to be linked to throat and lung irritation. Therefore, it’s best to swap them for a gentler, kid-safe alternative. Bottles of polish and remover should be kept well out of reach of children, given that they can easily spill or even ingest them. 

Despite this, there are steps that can be taken to enable painting nails at home to be fun and safe. Choose non-toxic, water-based formulas, use a well-ventilated room to avoid a build-up of fumes, and always keep an eye on your children to ensure they do not ingest the product. This way, your mini salon will be a safe, joyful bonding moment for your kids to enjoy. 

Water-based vs solvent-based: what parents should know

Not all nail polishes work in the same way. Traditional solvent-based formulas rely on strong chemicals to dissolve pigments and create a glossy finish. However, these solvents release harsh fumes, can dry out nails, and usually need acetone or other removers to take it off. In contrast, water-based polishes bond differently. Instead of harsh solvents, they suspend colour in water, which means they smell less, can be removed more gently, and are better for sensitive skin and nails. 

Eco-friendly and ethical choices

Choosing non-toxic nail polish isn’t just about keeping little hands safe – it's also about caring for the planet. Regular polishes are often full of harsh chemicals that don’t just smell strong, but can also end up lingering in the environment. However, many kid-friendly brands, such as Piggy Paint, are also eco-friendly, using biodegradable ingredients and cruelty-free testing. As parents, most of us are looking for ways to make small, sustainable choices, and something even as simple as nail polish can be a part of that. By choosing non-toxic, cruelty-free options, we are taking the steps to make a positive impact on our environment. 

The UK regulations gap

There are strict safety regulations that cosmetic products, such as nail polishes, must meet before they are sold in the EU and UK. Hence, certain toxic ingredients are banned or heavily restricted. This provides some reassurance for parents, although just because a product is being sold, doesn’t always mean it’s the safest choice for children. “Child-friendly” labelled products can be misleading as these are not tightly regulated, so despite multiple polishes being labelled as this, one polish may still be more suitable than the other. That’s why it is worthwhile reading the ingredients list to differentiate between these “child-friendly” labelled products.

Piggy Paint is a fantastic choice for children’s nail polish as it does not just meet the minimum legal standards, but rather, exceeds them. With water-based, non-toxic formulas and a focus on child safety, it acts as a “stand out” brand that parents can genuinely trust. 

Mini-me beauty or meaningful bonding?

Children love to copy what they see, and beauty routines are no exception. Through imitation, kids learn, explore identity, and build confidence. Therefore, when children want to paint their nails like their mum, it’s a way for them to build a connection. By choosing non-toxic, water-based polishes, parents can turn a simple task into a fun bonding activity. Instead of worrying about any risks, you can enjoy the laughter and moment of connection. This makes nail painting more than a vain trend – it's a parent-child ritual filled with good memories and increased confidence. 

What the world is doing differently

Children's nail polish is becoming a trend worldwide, not just here in the UK. In the US, the use of non-toxic, water-based polishes is on the rise, with bright colours and even character-themed sets often being sold. In Australia, parents prefer softer, pastel shades and peel-off formulas that are practical as well as playful. Japan has its own unique style, with a love for delicate designs and minimalism, even for kids’ nails. They also have a big focus on safety and gentle formulas. 

Here in the UK, parents are starting to follow suit. Social media has a big factor to play in this as it showcases global trends and growing awareness about toxins. There is an increasing demand for safer, eco-friendly polishes that don’t compromise on fun. 

Quick tips for parents

If you’re planning on a nail-painting session with your little one, make sure to follow a few simple steps to ensure things are safe. First, always choose water-based, non-toxic brands designed for children as these are much gentler on young skin and nails. Next, ensure to apply the polish in a well-ventilated space to avoid a build-up of toxic fumes. Finally, supervision and safe storage is key. Be present while nails are being painted, and make sure bottles, removers, and tools are stored safely out of reach when you are done. These precautions make sure to turn a mini beauty ritual into a worry-free bonding experience.

Conclusion

Despite some of the risks discussed in this blog, with the right choices, kids can enjoy nail polish safely. Make sure to take all the precautions listed above, and you will have an enjoyable bonding experience. Explore our collection of non-toxic, water-based kids’ nail polishes.