Is Your Nail Polish Making You Fat?

Could your love of a mani be causing you to gain weight? Photo: ThinkStock

If you're wondering why you can't seem to shake those pesky last few kilos—but your mani is *always* on point—then listen up.

Researchers at Duke University and the Environmental Working Group (EWG) have found a link between a common ingredient found in nail polish and weight gain.

The study, published in the Environment International, found that Triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), a suspected endocrine-disrupting chemical which is also used in plastics manufacturing and as a fire retardant in foam furniture, can interfere with hormone function.

TPHP, which is used to give the polish more flexibility and durability, was initially introduced into to replace phthalates, which previous studies found was linked to reproductive issues.

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Researchers tested the urine of 26 participants before and after painting their nails with polish that contained TPHP.

In a period of 2-6 hours after painting their nails, 24 of the participants had slightly elevated levels of diphenyl phosphate, (DPHP, which is a chemical that indicates TPHP has been processed in the body).

The participants were then tested again 10-14 hours after painting their nails and all 26 had an increase in DPHP levels by nearly seven times.

The study looked at over 3,000 nail polishes and found that the chemical was present in 49%, which included some brands that did not list it.

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Senior scientist with EWG Johanna Congleton revealed the Yahoo that their findings showed levels of TPHP may be higher in clear polishes than coloured.

"As clear nail polishes are often used as a base coat or top coat, some individuals may be simultaneously exposed to TPHP in both coloured polish and clear polish," she said.

Due to the small sample size of this study however, the researchers are urging people not to panic just yet, however the EWG have launched a petition calling for nail polish manufacturers to remove TPHP from its products.

The study's co-author Kate Hoffman advises that if you cannot give up your mani/pedi, you should try and avoid getting it on your skin as this enables it to absorb into your bloodstream - and definitely don't bite your nails!

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