 [ Symptoms ] is it safe to use nail polish while pregnant [ Disease ] phthalates which are found in many nail polishes have been studied for a potential risk of causing birth defects however evidence does not currently suggest a connection between phthalates and birth defects in humans but studies in animals have shown these substances interfere with male sexual development so caution may be warranted to be on the safe side you can use phthalate free nail polish or polish your nails in a well ventilated area to limit your exposure once the polish dries there is little risk to your baby since chemicals are not absorbed through the nails here is a great article on pregnancy proofing your beauty regimen i personally avoided most nail polish when i was pregnant the story below says to avoid polish with phthalates which have been linked to birth defects look at the ingredients list on your polish to be sure if you go to a salon and are not sure if they carry phthlate free brands take your own some brands said to be free of phthlates include essie revlon and loreal but remember to check the label as they come out with new types all the time none of these links are definitely proven of course but why not play it safe until we know for sure <link>