Nail cosmetics as a source of toxic substancesMarek Chyc, Żaneta Pradel Wydział Matematyczno-Przyrodniczy, Państwowa Wyższa Szkoła Zawodowa w Tarnowie Summary Introduction. Nail polishes are a group of cosmetics with a very diverse chemical composition. Unfortunately, these products often contain chemical substances with harmful and even toxic properties. Aim. The aim of the paper is to draw attention to the presence of toxic substances in nail cosmetics and to test which volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are present in the composition of the cosmetic and whether they have been shown on the product label. Methods. Infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), gas chromatography (GC) were applied to test a sample of nail polish. VOC composition given by the producer on the label was compared with the results of chromatographic analysis. Results. The VOC composition included by the manufacturer on the label was compared with the results of chromatographic analysis. As a result of this comparison, some inaccuracies and even inconsistencies were found. The spectrum in the field of infrared spectroscopy raises no objections to the manufacturer´s declaration regarding the coating-forming components used. Conclusions. Nail polishes are a source of dangerous substances, therefore special care should be taken in their use, especially for people for whom they are a factor of occupational exposure, as is the case with beauticians. Key words: cosmetics, solvents, esters, VOC, nail polish |