Having fast-growing nails during pregnancy sounds like a good chance to have them painted with fun colors! But is it safe?

There is evidence that chemicals like dibutyl phthalate, toluene, formaldehyde have devastating effects to an unborn baby at high levels. These are found in some brands of nail polish.

These chemicals can cause fetal harm at high levels of exposure. But such chemicals are present in small amounts and in some brands only, and it is unlikely that they will pass through the placenta just by painting your nails.

To be on the safe side, however, you may want to stick to nail polish that is free from these chemicals. Make it a habit to read the ingredients. Get your nails done in a well-ventilated room, too, so you don’t inhale the strong odor. The same rule is for acrylic nail chemicals, an acrylic-fingernail remover, and a nail polish remover.

If you develop skin problems or other unusualities while pregnant, it is best to avoid any kind of nail polish.