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Health Safety

Toluene (chemical) :

Toluene is a common ingredient in many nail products. You can find out if the products you are using contain toluene by looking at the ingredient labels or material safety data sheets (MSDS). If possible, supply your salon with toluene-free products or products labeled "3-free."

Hazard

Found in: Nail Polish, Nail Hardeners, Polish Removers, Nail Glues

Common Exposure Routes: Skin Contact, Inhalation

Effects

Dry or cracked skin
Eye, nose, and throat irritation
Headache

Dizziness
Harm to pregnant women and fetuses
Trouble with memory or concentration

Safety Tips

Run exhaust or
HVAC systems
Wash hands after working

Wear nitrile gloves
If possible, choose toluene-free products
Keep windows and doors open

Protecting Yourself from Nail Infections

Nail salon workers interact closely with the nails of many clients, putting salon workers at risk of nail infections. Infections can happen either from direct contact with an infected individual or by touching a surface that an infected individual has come into contact with.

Signs of Infection

Nail discoloration (yellow or white is common)
Crumbling or splitting nails
Chalky powder on nails
Separation of nail from nailbed

Safety and Prevention

Do not reuse single-use products like cotton balls, orange sticks, or toe separators
Always clean and sterilize multi-use equipment between clients
Wear disposable gloves when working with clients and change gloves in between clients

Chemical Safety

The Toxic Trio:

The Toxic Trio is a combination of ingredients commonly used in nail polish formulation. These ingredients have been linked to a number of harmful health effects. To avoid the Toxic Trio, look for nail polishes labeled "3-Free."

Toluene

Used to smooth the application of polish. Can cause dizziness, headaches, and eye irritation

Dibutyl Phthalate

Used to prevent polish from cracking. Can cause harm to fetuses and impair fertility

Formaldehyde

Used to harden nail polish. Can cause cancer, eye and respiratory irritation, skin irritation, and nausea

Safe Salon Practice

Improving Ergonomics

Many nail salon workers commonly experience aches and pains. This happens from leaning over work tables for a long time, doing repetitive motions like buffing and filing, and resting wrists and forearms on hard surfaces or sharp table edges. Small alterations to work stations combined with gentle stretching can help to alleviate muscle aches and pains.

Common Symptoms

Neck pain
Back pain
Wrist/forearm soreness
Carpal tunnel
Tension in the shoulders

Safety & Prevention

Use an adjustable chair with back support
Adjust lighting to see work without bending over
Use a cushion or towel to raise the client's hand or foot
Put a towel or foam pad on table edges
Take breaks to stretch and change positions

Routes of Exposure

Do you know the 3 routes of exposure? Dermal, inhalation, and ingestion are the ways by which harmful substances can get into your body and affect your health. Check out this infographic for examples specific to salon work and measures you can take to protect yourself.

Understanding Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)

Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) contain essential info that can help you better understand the hazards of a given nail salon product and how to use the product in the safest way possible. These sheets are required to be made available to salon workers, and they can often be found in break room areas or by requesting them from the salon owner.

Manufacturers are required to provide SDSs for potentially hazardous salon products.

← View the infographic to see what you can find using SDSs

Salon Ventilation Myths

Salon ventilation can be a complicated topic to understand! At the most basic level, your salon should have a ventilation system in place that filters out both particulates (like nail dust) and vapors. General HVAC systems for nonindustrial settings are not adequate for keeping the potentially hazardous substances of a nail salon at safe levels, so your salon should work with a professional to design and install a ventilation system that works for your space.

Myth #1

Ventilation is used to control odors in the salon.

Fact

Ventilation should be used to control vapors and dusts.

Myth #2

If something has an unpleasant odor, it is harmful to breathe.

Fact

Even if you cannot smell anything, vapors may still be present at harmful levels, and vice versa.

Safe Product Storage

Safe storage of products is essential for preventing accidents and injuries in the salon. Not only does safe, proper storage keep you and your customers safe, but it also helps to make sure your products stay in their best shape for as long as possible. Does your salon meet the safe product storage checklist?

Separate from eating/breakroom area

Clearly labeled containers

Containers tightly closed when not in use

SDSs accessible for easy access to safety info

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