Solution: What To Do When You’re Allergic To Nail Polish (Other Than Not Wearing It!)

A friend of mine recently discovered she was allergic to a specific brand of nail polish after she started developing a rash around her eyes! It took four manicures and a trip to the dermatologist to put it all together, but apparently wherever the polish touched sensitive skin— like when she rubbed her eyes— it would cause an allergic reaction.

But never fear, she can still wear nail polish because there are tons of hypoallergenic brands out there.

 
Start with Essie’s Sensitivity Basecoat ($7.40), which is hypoallergenic and formulated for sensitive skin.

Then apply Refreshingly Free Nail Polish ($5.25), which comes in almost 40 colors and is formaldehyde, toluene, phthalate, and acetone free (some of the common irritants). While it takes longer to dry and is more difficult to remove, you’ll have a long-lasting, chip resistant manicure without the hives!