Fancy kek painted nails without putting unnecessary strain on the planet? Good news! There are more and more eco-friendly (re?) nail polish options on the market. These polishes contain less harmful chemicals than ‘oldschool’ nail polish, and are often also animal-tested and vegan. But how do you choose the best sustainable nail polish? We help you on your way with a few handy tips for a green(er) choice, even if you love bright red or soft pink.
What makes nail polish eco-friendly(er)?
Many nail polishes contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), microplastics and chemical solvents. Not exactly good stuff for you, nor for the planet. Fortunately, there are brands that take a different approach: with less harmful substances, more conscious packaging, vegan formulas and animal-test-free production. Some are even water-based! In this article, we share practical tips for choosing a green(er) lacquer. Want to know more about the contents of a jar of nail polish? Then check out our background article: sustainable nail polish, does it even exist?
Fortunately, there is more and more choice, not only in colours, but also in eco-friendly nail polishes.
These are our favourite eco-friendly nail polishes
There are now many brands that promise a greener colour on your nails. We found out which polishes are really a step more sustainable: from ingredients to packaging. Below are our favourite brands: nail polishes that are just a little bit kinder to you and to the world around you.
Gitti
These cheerful German-made lacquers are a favourite of the editors. Gitti has two lines: one plant-based that lasts, and one water-based that is fragrance-free, nice for those sensitive to strong odours. Plus points for the caring ingredients (such as vitamins C and E) as well as the sustainable packaging. Find out more about gitti.
Nailberry
A French gem with a ’10-free’ formula, meaning the lacquer is free of ten commonly used chemicals. Nailberry is vegan, halal and certified with COSMOS Natural. The colours are beautifully deep and long-lasting, chic and greener go hand in hand here. Find out more about Nailberry.
Kia Charlotta
These mini bottles (5 ml) are handy because you use them up more often. So less waste! The lacquer is 15-free, vegan, microplastic-free and PFAS-free. Find out more about Kia Charlotta.
Manucurist
This French brand's ‘Green’ and ‘Green Flash’ lines contain up to 84% natural ingredients. Green Flash is the first ‘clean’ gel nail polish that you just use at home. They are also firmly committed to reducing their carbon footprint. Find out more about Manucurist.
SO'BiO étic
Affordable AND natural: their nail polish is up to 87% of natural origin, Cosmebio/Ecocert-certified, PFAS-free and vegan. And deliciously local too: simply available in French supermarkets as well as online. Find out more about SO'BiO étic.
Nail polish by Avril & Benecos
These budget-friendly brands cost only about four euros per bottle and are still a lot greener than the average drugstore lacquer. They are vegan and contain natural ingredients. Find out more about Avril and here you can find More about Benecos.
Nail polishes from Rimmel, Max Factor, Etos and co.
You will also find more and more sustainable options in the drugstore. Think of Rimmel's ‘KIND & FREE’ line or Etos‘ ’Pure' lacquer. They are often vegan and partly natural. Not a 100% green choice, but a nice step forward if you want to try something greener easily and affordably.
Eco-friendly nail polish: which is your favourite?
Greener lacquering starts with choosing more consciously. Check the ingredients, choose brands that are transparent about their formulas and also think about your remover (acetone-free is nicer for you and the planet). Which varnishes are your favourite? Let us know! We are always looking for new sustainable gems! Are you more the type who goes to a salon for gel nails? Then you'll probably want to read this about gel nails. Painting yourself is not so crazy.
More beauty tips
- Also see: All about storing your beauty products.
- Also see how you can further green your beauty ritual with this list better make-up and skincare brands.
Photo credits: main image: left: Sour Moha (Unsplash), right: Annie Spratt (Unsplash), nail polish: Karolina Grabowska (Pexels), jars of (eco-friendly) nail polish: H&CO (Unsplash).
