A new study shows a potentially toxic chemical in nail polish.
A new study that Duke University and the Environmental Working Group conducted found that many nail polishes contain a potentially toxic chemical, triphenyl phosphate or TPHP.
Researchers detected the chemical in the bodies of women who painted their nails.
In animal testing, TPHP has been shown to interfere with normal hormone function and cause obesity and developmental problems.
"We need to take a closer look at whether or not there are health effects associated with women specifically women with weight gain and obesity," Johanna Congleton, with the Environmental Working Group, said.
The chemical is commonly used to make furniture less flammable.
Nail polish makers likely add it to make polishes more durable.
Manufacturers began using TPHP as a replacement for other chemicals that scientific studies found were harmful.
The Environmental Working Group said Congress should do a better job at regulating nail polish and other cosmetics to make sure what's in them is actually safe.
"We can't swap out ingredients that have health concerns, and the public has growing concerns about ... ingredients that have either no safety information or very little information on their toxicity," Jacqueline Fell in Washington said.
The study also says some nail polishes on sale right now don't disclose they contain TPHP.
WSBTV
