I've never given much thought to the nasty stuff that lurks in nail polish and I have no idea why. It's clearly the most chemical-laden of all cosmetics, and it only takes one sniff of the stuff to know what's inside probably isn't doing you any favours. So when I was introduced to Jacava London, the world's first '8 free' nail polish I knew they were onto a winner- their polishes are free of eight toxins that most brands contain including the formidable 'toxic trio.'
Why 8-Free Matters
“8-free” means the nail polish is made without eight of the most common and potentially harmful chemicals found in standard formulas. These include the well known “toxic trio” (DBP, formaldehyde, and toluene) plus other additives that can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, or environmental damage. Choosing an 8-free polish helps reduce your exposure to these chemicals while still giving you the colour, shine, and performance you want. A bit of research told me that a few brands have already started phasing these chemicals out, but for the most part they're still widely used. Jacava London has gone one better, and removed five other harmful ingredients in their gorgeous luxury nail polish.
“8-free” means the nail polish is made without eight of the most common and potentially harmful chemicals found in standard formulas. These include the well known “toxic trio” (DBP, formaldehyde, and toluene) plus other additives that can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, or environmental damage. Choosing an 8-free polish helps reduce your exposure to these chemicals while still giving you the colour, shine, and performance you want. A bit of research told me that a few brands have already started phasing these chemicals out, but for the most part they're still widely used. Jacava London has gone one better, and removed five other harmful ingredients in their gorgeous luxury nail polish.
Blueberry Muffin is a creme lilac shade, it contains no shimmer and has a high-gloss super shiny finish. I've mentioned in previous nail posts that lilac is my favourite colour to wear on my nails, this is a bit deeper than the other pastel-y lilacs that I own which I think will make it perfect for over the autumn and winter.
Knightsbridge is a bright fuschia pink containing loads of really fine purple shimmer, it gives off an almost duochrome finish and is undeniably gorgeous. I don't care how old I get, I think pink sparkly things will always do it for me.
Both of the two coloured polishes are opaque in one coat- I'm not talking streaky, 'kind of opaque but needs a second coat' either. While these are on the pricey side for nail polish, the fact that you only need one coat and that the long brush reaches right to the bottom of the bottle does mean that you're getting your moneys worth. The formula is incredible, exactly what you'd expect of a higher end nail polish; smooth, easy to apply and perfect in consistency- not too thick but not at all watery either. The top coat is my new favourite, it dries so quickly and gives such a glossy effect to the nails; the UV inhibitor keeps white nail polish looking white for longer too. Perfect for keeping your French manicure from looking manky after a couple of days.
Jacava London polishes are available from their website here, Amazon and Feel Unique are also their official retailers. They don't have the hugest shade selection in the world but there's definitely something to cover all bases from neutrals to pastels to brights. If you're iffy about all of the chemicals that go into regular nail polish and are looking to try something non-toxic, or just feel like treating yourself to a lovely high end nail polish this brand comes highly recommended from me!
Jacava London polishes are available from their website here, Amazon and Feel Unique are also their official retailers. They don't have the hugest shade selection in the world but there's definitely something to cover all bases from neutrals to pastels to brights. If you're iffy about all of the chemicals that go into regular nail polish and are looking to try something non-toxic, or just feel like treating yourself to a lovely high end nail polish this brand comes highly recommended from me!
2025 Update
Jacava London is still going strong, with their 8-free luxury polishes available directly from their website as well as on Amazon and Feelunique. If you’re looking for other non-toxic or vegan nail polish options, you might also want to check out:
Nails Inc Plant Power – vegan, 21-free, with a wide shade range
Barry M Gelly Hi Shine – budget-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free
Kure Bazaar – luxury, eco friendly formulas made with up to 90% natural ingredients
Essie Gel Couture – salon quality finish and 8-free
Have you ever tried Jacava London polishes?
