Is finger nail polish remover safe during pregnancy?
On One Hand: Potential for DangerThe March of Dimes recommends against using nail polish and nail polish remover during pregnancy, and especially avoiding salons where the fumes from these products fill the air. Acetone, toluene, methyl methacrylate, acetonitrile, and ethyl acetate are the common ingredients in polish remover that cause concern. Breathing in the fumes or absorbing the chemicals through your skin may cause birth defects.On the Other: Small Amounts and Safe ProductsNo scientific studies show a direct correlation between using nail polish remover during pregnancy and having a child with birth defects, although acetronitrile breaks down into cyanide in the body when swallowed. Still, many expectant mothers do use polish remover, and it may be that it poses no danger with limited exposure. Also, polish and polish remover products exist that do not contain the worrisome chemicals, and these may be safer choices.Bottom LineThough concrete research is slim, it’s a good idea wh
