What does 10-Free Nail Polish Mean?

10-free nail polish is exactly what it sounds like—nail polish formulated without 10 harmful chemicals found in traditional formulas. Here's what those chemicals are, why they matter, and why at Gelous, cutting them out is non-negotiable.

What is the difference between 3-Free, 5-Free & 10-Free Nail Polish?

Nail polish brands use "free" ratings to indicate which harmful chemicals their formula excludes. 3-free removes the original toxic trio: Formaldehyde, Dibutyl Phthalate, and Toluene. 5-free adds Formaldehyde Resin and Camphor. 10-free goes further, cutting out all ten: Formaldehyde Resin, Camphor, Parabens, Ethyl Tosylamide, Xylene, Triphenyl Phosphate, Tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide, plus the toxic trio. This makes it the cleanest, safest option available.

You may also see brands claiming 15-free, 17-free, or even 18-free. These higher numbers simply mean additional chemicals have been removed beyond the standard 10. However, there's no universal industry standard for what each number includes. At Gelous, we're transparent about exactly what's in our formula, so you always know what you're putting on your nails."

What chemicals are excluded from 10-Free Gel Nail Polish?

Free from the 'Toxic Trio':

Formaldehyde: A strong-smelling, colourless gas used as a preservative. It can cause skin irritation, nausea, and allergic reactions including dermatitis—and is linked to certain cancers.

Dibutyl Phthalate: Used as a solvent and plasticiser for a shiny finish. Side effects range from skin, eye, nose, and throat irritation to headaches, dizziness, nausea, and seizures. There is also evidence linking it to liver and kidney damage.

Toluene: A petroleum-derived solvent that helps create a smooth finish. Prolonged use can dry out and crack the skin, while inhalation can cause headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, vomiting, respiratory depression, and hallucinations.

Also free from:

Formaldehyde Resin: A polymer widely used in nail enamel for its film-forming properties. Despite its common use, it's known to cause dermatitis and other skin irritations.

Camphor: A waxy solid used as a synthetic plasticiser to add shine and elasticity. Camphor is highly toxic and associated with nausea, headaches, dizziness, and disorientation.

Parabens: A common preservative used to extend shelf life and prevent mould and bacteria. Parabens have been linked to an increased risk of breast and skin cancer.

Ethyl Tosylamide: A plasticiser used to boost the longevity and durability of nail polish. It can cause mild to severe allergic reactions and is linked to hormone disruption.

Xylene: A solvent used to keep nail polish formulas from going lumpy. Known side effects include skin and eye irritation, nausea, headaches, and dizziness.

Triphenyl Phosphate: A plasticiser added for durability and flexibility. It is associated with hormonal effects—particularly on reproductive health.

Tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide: Used in the oxidation process during nail polish production. It can be toxic to the blood, liver, and lungs, and may negatively affect the respiratory and central nervous systems.

Vegan and cruelty-free:

While some brands still use ingredients such as Carmine (crushed insect shells), Guanine (fish scales), and Oleic Acid (animal fats), Gelous Gel Nail Polish is 100% vegan and completely free from animal-derived ingredients. We're also proudly cruelty-free with no animal testing, ever.

Is 10-Free Gel Nail Polish completely safe?

While our Gel Nail Polish is 10-free, improper use can still pose risks. Gel and regular nail polishes both contain chemicals, so care during application and removal is essential to avoid skin irritation or nail damage. Always apply in a well-ventilated area, follow our Application Guide, and keep polish away from the skin. If any gets on skin before curing, remove it immediately using an Orangewood Cuticle Stick, Nail Art Brush, or Nail Polish Remover Pen dipped in Nail Polish Remover.

10-free Nail Polish is also a popular choice during pregnancy, as it excludes the chemicals most commonly flagged as harmful to expectant mothers—particularly Formaldehyde, Dibutyl Phthalate, Toluene, and Camphor. That said, we always recommend consulting your doctor or midwife before using any Nail Polish products during pregnancy.