Let's get one thing straight... your nails deserve better!

If you’ve ever popped open a fresh bottle of nail polish and got hit with a chemical cloud strong enough to transport you to another dimension, you’re not alone. Traditional nail polishes? A whole toxic mess. But here’s the good news, not all polish is out to get you.

At Function of Vex, we believe in giving you everything you need and none of the junk you don’t—especially if it’s toxic, cruel, or just straight-up unnecessary. That’s why all our polishes are 10-free, non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free. Because you should be able to express yourself without inhaling questionable fumes or supporting sketchy industry practices.

So, what’s the deal with 10-free nail polish, and why should you care?

Let’s break it down.

What Does "10-Free" Even Mean?

Short version: It means our nail polishes don’t contain ten of the worst chemicals that the beauty industry has somehow decided are acceptable (spoiler: they’re not).

Long version: Here’s the full lineup of what you’re avoiding by going 10-free:

• Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP): Often used to soften plastics. In nail products, it has the effect of preventing cracks, chips, and other imperfections. While still approved in the United States, our products keep out DPBs because they've been tested to be carcinogens and lead to reproductive issues.  Yeah, we’ll pass.
• Toluene: That headache-inducing smell? Probably this. Enter... another ingredient permitted in the United States despite its link to issues including dizziness, nausea, eye irritation, and birth defects in women during pregnancy. 
  
• Formaldehyde: Formerly used as a nail hardener but research and testing by the International Agency for Research on Cancer shows that it can lead to nasal and lung cancers. No. Thankyou.
• Camphor: A little glossy magic? Sure. But in large doses, it can be very toxic. Inhalation or ingestion can lead to accelerated heartbeat, skin vasodilation, slowed breathing, and seizures. 
• Parabens: Bad for the environment, bad for your hormones. Why is this still a thing?
• Formaldehyde Resin: Can cause skin irritation, discoloration, and nerve damage. Not exactly the “salon-quality” experience we’re going for.
• Xylene: Another one that messes with your skin, nose, and throat. Inhalation can even lead to dizziness and loss of muscle coordination, and worse. Yikes.
• Triphenyl Phosphate (TPHP):  Acts as a flame retardant in nail products but has been shown to disrupt endocrine functions and reproductive health such as hormone imbalance and decreased sperm count.
• Tosylamide: Can trigger allergic reactions, especially around sensitive areas like the eyelids, mouth, neck, and genitals. Not Cute.
• Gluten: Sounds strange, but for nail biters with celiac disease, this one’s a big deal.

 

Is 10-Free Nail Polish Actually Safer?

Let’s be real... even non-toxic nail polish isn’t a magical cure. But 10-free formulas are the cleanest, safest option available, especially when compared to traditional lacquers that still contain these harsh chemicals.

Plus, if entire countries have banned some of these ingredients, there’s probably a reason! 

And it’s not just about personal safety—it’s also about ethics. Buying from brands that commit to 10-free formulas means supporting manufacturers where employees aren’t exposed to harmful chemicals daily. ✨ We love a little beauty activism. ✨

 

The Rise of Vegan and Cruelty-Free Nail Polishes

Beyond the 10-free movement, there's a growing demand for vegan and cruelty-free nail polishes. But what do these terms mean?

• Vegan Nail Polish: Formulas free from any weird, unnecessary animal-derived ingredients. Surprisingly, some traditional polishes use components like guanine (fish scales) for shimmer or carmine (crushed beetles) for color.
• Cruelty-Free Nail Polish: Products developed without any form of animal testing. This ethical stance ensures that no animals were harmed during the creation and testing phases.

Function of Vex

Because You Shouldn’t Have to Risk Your Health for Nail Art

We make nail polish that works with your creative energy, not against it. Our entire lineup is 10-free, vegan, non-toxic, and cruelty-free, because:

• No one should have to choose between self-expression and safety.
• Nail art should be fun, not full of health risks.
• Supporting ethical, clean beauty is the future.

So whether you're a seasoned nail tech or just someone who loves a good DIY mani, you deserve products that let you create without compromise.

 

Are Vegan Nail Polishes Weaker?

Nope. If anything, it’s the opposite. Our formulas have just the right consistency, and when properly maintained, deliver long-lasting results. We don’t rely on ingredients that break down over time. Every pigment, gel, and formula is tested (on humans, obviously) to make sure it actually does what it should.

What’s Actually in Our Products?

Glad you asked. Instead of the typical animal-based ingredients, we use:

• Plant-based bonding agents for super solid durability.
• High-quality synthetic alternatives that are more convenient and safer than traditional formulas.
• Non-toxic, low-allergen ingredients to reduce chances of sensitivities and irritation.

How to Spot High-Quality Non-Toxic Nail Polish

There’s a lot of marketing fluff out there, so here’s how to tell if a brand is actually non-toxic:

✅ Look for the “10-Free” Label. If they’re not shouting about it, they’re probably not doing it.

✅ Check for Vegan & Cruelty-Free Labels. Not all non-toxic polishes are animal-friendly, so double-check.

✅ Read Ingredient Lists. If you see “formaldehyde” or “toluene” anywhere, runnnn.

✅ Trust Your Nose. Overpowering chemical smell? Not a great sign.

Ready to Make the Switch? Let’s Go.

If you’re still using toxic nail polish, consider this your sign to upgrade.

When you ditch these ten, you’re not just avoiding the bad stuff—you’re choosing a formula that’s better for you, better for the planet, and better for the people who make it.

Function of Vex is here to help you create without caution—all while keeping things bold, expressive, and unapologetically you.