Padawan asks…Something I’ve been curious about lately is the risk of toluene in Seche Vite top coat, and I was wondering if you could elaborate on it…At what concentrations/volumes does toluene become toxic? Could the amount in SV be dangerous? Is it true toluene cannot be absorbed through the skin as it is non-polar?
Alchemist answers:
1. Most of the data on Toluene has been conducted on inhalation exposure, as this had been the major exposure route (was used extensively as a solvent in the printing industry for many years). Authorities most countries around the world have set an atmospheric concentration of 100ppm. This limit is based on very long exposures in the work place. Safety limits are set by finding the highest level no effect is seen and then applying a safety factor to this.
2. If the product is not used correctly or abused, there certainly could be enough in there to present a hazard. Don’t go around sniffing the stuff.
3. Toluene can be absorbed through the skin, but very very slowly slowly. Absorption through the nails would be even lower, probably negligable.
The Beauty Brains bottom line
If you use this product occasionally and use it in a well ventilated area, it appears unlikely that it poses much of a health hazard. If you’re are constantly exposed to high concentrations of its fumes, that’s a different story. Thanks to Forum member Alchemist for the analysis!
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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
I have used Seche Vite topcoat for years and have had no ill effects whatsoever. In is the BEST topcoat and always gives a wonderful slick shine that lasts.
Man, you guys are really reading my mind lately. I’ve been using the Seche Vite top coat for a couple of months now, and love the results but worry about its safety profile. My husband makes me use it exclusively in the bathroom with the fan on and the window open, and is convinced it’s going to kill me. Glad to know it’s not totally evil (though I might still be on the lookout for a 3-free equivalent product).
I stopped using Seche this year… the fact that you can’t use it while pregnant and that it’s considered Haz Waste really gave me the heeby jeebies. There are a lot of great non-tox alternatives like Mint Polish or Rescue Beauty, I honestly don’t miss it.
sally hansen quick dri line has great base and top coats for those who are looking for alternatives
I use loads of toluene at work (I work in an analytical chem lab), so I’m not really afraid of it. Tons of chemicals used in everyday products have chemicals that are sonsidered RCRA hazardous and need to be properly disposed of. Toluene is pretty dang volatile, which allows Seche Vite to dry so fast.
I can’t imagine that using Seche Vite during pregnancy would have any effect on the fetus. You just have to use it in a well ventilated area (which you should be doing anyway) and not, you know, drink it. I personally do not worry about whether my nail polish is 3 free because I use it on my nails, not my skin, and I don’t eat it, brush my teeth with it, or use it on my junk. I’d be more worried about the lead in my shower curtain.