The Environmental Impact of Acrylic Nails: Are There Sustainable Alternatives? at Nail Salon Malvern in Radnor

For a long time, acrylic nails have been a go-to for those who are looking for something that is tough and lasts long. Women use them for their durability, their ability to be shaped in different ways, or even just for how they look. To some, acrylic nails give a sophisticated finish. However, with the increase in awareness regarding preserving the environment, one question that is being asked by many is; what are the ecological effects of acrylic nails and do there exist ways, which are less harmful to the environment?

In this article, we will begin by discussing the impact acrylic nails have on the environment starting with the manufacturing process and ending with disposal of the nails. We’ll also consider other practices and products within the nail care space that are more likely to be sustainable and, therefore, provide better choices for consumers. It does not matter if you frequently put on acrylic nails or are just beginning to see the impact of beauty products on the environment, this article will give you some great takes. In addition to this, we will also see how an acrylic nails Dublin based salon tries to solve these problems by encouraging a greener approach to nail care.

What Are the Uses of Acrylic Nails and The History Behind Their Origin?

Acrylic nails are enhancements placed on the natural nail with the intent of increasing its length and strength. They are created by combining a liquid monomer with a powdered polymer which will harden in contact with air. It includes the application of an acrylic mixture and its bonding to the nail giving a protective coat.

Although acrylic nails can be applied for as long as a few weeks, the application and preparation of such nails involves a variety of synthetic chemicals which have considerable consequences on the environment. Acrylic nails are a form of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) which is a form of plastic polymer that is made from petrochemicals. Pollution is caused during the creation and the ending of these materials in use hence the nails tend to completely destroy the environment due to their non-bio degradable properties.



Environmental Issues Concerning Acrylic Nails

Virgin materials used to create acrylic nails and already used nails that are to be thrown away lead to different environmental consequences this highlights the root problem formulated about the environment and acrylic nails. To understand how acrylic nails affect the environment chances we need to look at the life cycle of acrylic nails and its affects influencing the environment.

Synthesis Of Acrylic Materials For The Production Of Acrylic Nails

The process of creating acrylic nails first starts with the architecture of acrylic resin. It is worthy to note that acrylic nails principally consist of methacrylate derivatives which are quite disastrous as they are byproducts of crude oil petrochemistry. Not only are these materials harmful to the environment, but they also require finite materials such as natural gas and oil in their constituent processes.

There is an enormous energy requirement to perform the chemical process involved in the manufacture of acrylic material. This energy requirement further compounds the greenhouse gases emitted. In addition, simply the extraction of the raw petrochemicals itself to manufacture the acrylics leads to habitat destruction and pollution among other harsh impacts to the environment.

Application Process In The Salon

The application of acrylic nails can negatively affect the human and environmental life as substances such as acetone and other solvents are used during the application. Such chemical substances are used during the removal as well as the cleaning of the acrylics in the process of the nail services that may cause potential risks to contamination of the water sources and soil when improperly disposed of.

In addition, most nail salons using acrylic nails apply a number of disposables including plastic liners that go beyond the environmental protection efforts. Most of these disposable equipment’s are single-use and typically made from non-biodegradable materials which are posing serious problems in relation to plastic pollution.

Waste and Disposal

The removal acrylic nails does not guarantee that the items can be put to some further use or recycling. Given that acrylic is a synthetic plastic derivative, they are non-biodegradable and cannot be simply removed from the land space. This further exacerbates the problem of increasing deforestation and hunger. In addition, removing acrylic nails using acetone or other solvents means that some of the chemicals contained in the latter would leak into the environment where they would invariably contribute towards pollution.

When acrylic nails are thrown away in the fabrication trash and were supposed to be removed, they help further the problem of micro-plastic pollution. These minute anthropogenic particles have now become one of the key reasons for degrading seawater and ocean regions. Seas and oceans are the primary habitat for marine species. When acrylic nails are thrown away carelessly, it breaks into small pieces, and they get eaten by sea creatures which increases the problem of micro-particles.

Transportation and Packaging



The use of acrylic nails is however growing due to their ease of application, but one must understand that transport and acquisition of commodities required for their fitting translates into high carbon footprints. The resins that are used while applying and soothing acrylic nails have to be fetched long distances, thus resulting in carbon emissions. Moreover, these products are usually contained in plastic cases that are non-degradable and when these products are dumped without any consideration towards the surrounding environment contribute towards environmental degradation.

Sustainable Options for Acrylic Nails

Even though acrylic nails are the most popular option, they are definitely not the most sustainable. But there are a couple of different nail care options that can be less damaging, For the focus of this section, we will try to look at more environmentally friendly alternatives which you could use so as to lessen the effect your nail care has on the environment.

Synthetic Nails

An increasingly popular substitute for artificial nails has become acrylic nails. They are fairly competitive when it comes to the longevity and look of an individuals nail but rather manufactured with a gel based formula that cures under ultraviolet light. Gel nails on the other hand are not made from acrylic plastic which comes from petchem and are relatively more fossil free and less poisonous to the human body and nature.

Perhaps the most obvious benefit of gel nails is that they are easier and require less effort to dissolve in water than acrylics. Since extreme chemicals are not used to formulate gel nail amendments, the absorbing ability of the applied materials into the disintegrating environment is relatively higher. This makes gel nails a better and more sustaining option than acrylic nails.

Nevertheless, energy is consumed in curing gel nails using UV lamps. Accordingly, try to find salons that use energy-efficient facilities and provide eco gel items such as Nailsalon Malvern in Radnor to ensure that they are environmentally friendly.

Taking Care of Natural Nails

If fake nails are not your cup of tea, then natural nail care is the most sustainable option. This involves working on your nails so that they’re strong, healthy, and good looking without the use of synthetic materials.

Some suggestions for maintaining natural nails include:

• Use of eco-friendly natural oils for regular moisturization.
• Refraining from the use of strong removers such as acetone and choosing safe alternatives instead.
• Application of natural biotin supplements and oils in order to strengthen the nails.
• Regular neat trimming and filing of the nails to encourage faster growth.

Natural nail care is the best option as it does not require the use of enhancers such as acrylics and gels which serve to increase one’s carbon footprints. It’s definitely a more responsible option for sustainable nail art lovers.

Organic Nail Products that Decompose

More people want to have safe nail product selection which is safe for the environment. While some companies have began selling nail paints, removers and other items without hazardous substances like toluene, formaldehyde and phthalates which are eco friendly. The use of Plant based ingredients free of toxic components, and eco friendly, bio friendly packaging is used in these products.

Natural pigments and renewable resources nail polishes are ideal to consider. There are also a number of brands that have shifted from using plastic containers and opted for glass or aluminum which are more environmentally friendly and easier to recycle.

If you go to a place such as The Nailsalon Malvern in Radnor, ask about the products they provide. In case you are looking for more eco friendly choices, you can choose water based, non- toxic or even cruelty- free nail polish that a lot of salons have started to offer.

Instant Artificial Nails

Nails that snap on are one such choice that is environmentally friendly along with being an alternative to Acrylics. These nails are artificial and do not require glue or strong chemicals since they can be applied directly to the natural nails. These nails can be reused over and over again before they are discarded as they are if press on nails.

Moreover, press-on nails do not require the use of toxic substances or harsh chemicals such as acrylic to remain sturdy, which is why they are of various designs and shapes. Additionally, the use of wooden pulp or biodegradable plastic in many press-on nails makes them a more environmentally friendly option.

Water-Based or Non-Toxic Nail Polish

Water-based nail polish or non-toxic polishes can be a sustainable alternative for anyone who is fond of applying nail polish instead of sticking to eco-friendly solutions. Such products are less harmful due to less malign products and elements and chemicals combining during processing, aiming to attempt at one’s health as well as the bigger picture i.e. the surroundings. Furthermore, they are easy on the environment because they do not require solvents such as acetone or formaldehyde during the manufacturing process.



How is Sustainable Development Practiced in Nail Salons: Nailsalon Malvern located in Radnor

When selecting a spa to help you with your nails, it is critical to pick one that seeks to be more sustainable.Nai salons such as Nailsalon Malvern in Radnor, among many others, are trying their best not to leave a carbon footprint behind as they employ waste-free strategies.

Products Selection

The management at Nailsalon Malvern is committed to using non-toxic, cruelty-free and eco-friendly alternatives as much as possible. They aim to provide eco-friendly options from water enforced nail paint, nail care tools and other materials that truly respect the environment.

Green Building Strategy

Nailsalon Malvern for instance is among many modern salons that have decided to replace some of their tools such as lighting, uv lamps and other equipment with energy saving devices. Incorporating LED lights and low energy appliances assist these salons reduce the energy they consume as a whole.

Waste Management System

Radnor's Nailsalon Malvern is among other beauty salons that have started waste management systems. This encompasses recycling of packages, collaborations on new materials for re-use, and reducing the use of ‘one use’ plastic. Also, to prevent further environmental pollution some salons don’t use capped tools and instead use metal cuticle pushers and stainless steel nail files.

Alternative Aesthetics

Nailsalon Malvern is one of the salons where, as a client, you will be glad to find products packaged in glass or aluminum and not plastic. Many salons are now becoming aware of ecologically friendly materials and deciding to introduce other that have a wide selection of environmentally friendly containers.

Conclusion: Being Responsible with Your Choice of Nail Care Products

The use of acrylic nails has adverse caused with worrying environment issues, this sorrow is felt more now as there is a gradual shift in view towards the chemical make up and material used in its wearing and disposal. On the other hand, there still gels, natural nail care, press-on nails, and eco-friendly nail products that solve the issue of nail care without harming the global ecosystem.

Choosing a nail salon that practices good eco-friendly practices for example Nailsalon Malvern in Radnor makes an enormous difference in mitigating nail care hazards. With the increasing eco-friendly nail care practices, the beauty of having well-shaped and manicured nails is ever possible while still maintaining a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

There are several eco-friendly and sustainable options as well as practices available today, which clearly makes it simple to pick more environmentally preferable options in your beauty regime . If you are someone who has been using acrylic for years or are just planning to use it, the style and beauty of nails can still be achieved without having an internal struggle with your conscience.