Cleaner, non-toxic nail care

Boulder cares about what goes on and in the body, and nail care is no exception. But the labels get confusing fast. Here is a straight guide to what cleaner, non-toxic nail care actually means, so you can ask for what you want.

What the numbers mean

You will see polishes labeled "5-free," "7-free," "10-free" and so on. The number refers to how many potentially harmful ingredients the formula leaves out, things like formaldehyde, toluene and DBP. Higher is generally cleaner, though the exact list varies by brand. Vegan and cruelty-free are separate claims about ingredients and testing, not toxicity.

It is not just the polish

Cleaner nail care is also about air and hygiene. Good ventilation matters, especially with enhancements. So does real sanitation, fresh files and single-use kits per guest, a new liner in every pedicure bowl, and properly disinfected tools. A "clean" polish in a poorly run shop misses half the point.

What to ask for

Tell us you want cleaner options and we will talk through what we can offer, from lower-toxicity polishes to gentler removal. If you are pregnant, sensitive to fumes, or just prefer to minimize exposure, say so, it helps us take care of you well.

Cleaner does not mean less pretty

The cleaner polish world has caught up on color and wear. You can have a beautiful manicure or long-wear finish and still feel good about what is in it. Ask us when you book.