Cancer risks put ugly sheen on nail polish

Stacy Shi

Some 70 percent of gel nail polish sold in Hong Kong have been found to contain cancer-causing substances banned by the European Union, according to the Consumer Council .

The watchdog tested 25 different models of "soak off gel" nail polish, and found that almost 70 percent or 17 models, contained at least one of the carcinogens: benzene, formaldehyde and PAHs - polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

The tests were conducted with reference to the EU Cosmetics Directive, which stipulates that CMR - or carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction - substances are chemicals classified as carcinogenic.

The tests focused on benzene, toluene and xylene, three organic solvents commonly found in nail polish, that are classified as CMR substances.

A Madam Glam product contains 0.26 micrograms per kilogram of benzene, which is banned in the mainland for use in cosmetics.

People are recommended to avoid products containing benzene as it can cause headaches, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, increase cancer risks and damage the nervous and immune system in the long run.

All samples were also found to contain toluene, with amounts ranging from 1.6 to 47 mcg/kg. Although they complied with the EU's upper limit, toluene could harm the eyes, skin, liver and nervous system.

"Mothers-to-be and breastfeeding mothers should refrain from using products with toluene as it can pose greater health risks to children and fetuses," said Siu King-wai, head of publicity and community relations.

Xylene was detected in 12 products with levels ranging from 0.99 to 120mcg/kg.

Additionally, 16 products contained PAHs, while naphthalene, prohibited by the EU, was found in 13 models ranging from 0.01 to 0.2mcg/kg.

For products with no banned substances, five got the highest rating, including Bio Seaweed Gel, Behold, Presto Ledgel, Sweet Candy and Essie.

The results have been forwarded to the Customs and Excise Department for follow-up action.

The council also tested mouthwash products and warned people to be aware of the possibility of stained teeth from long-term use.

Of 32 mouthwash products, 17 models failed to provide complete user instructions.

Surveys revealed prolonged use of mouthwash containing cetylpyridinium chloride or chlorhexidine, which have bactericidal functions but might stain teeth and temporarily affect the sense of taste for some.

Siu added that mouthwash cannot replace toothpaste, as "the best and most effective way to clean teeth is to brush correctly, and to use floss and a toothbrush together."