Teaching green chemistry, sustainability ethics, and toxicity using nail polish removers

Ingredients in nail polish and polish removers are the primary causes of occupational health problems manicurists frequently face. Several key concepts of green chemistry can be taught to an undergraduate audience using nail polish removers as a case study. Students generated green profiles of various nail polish removers available on the market based on the 12 principles of green chemistry. This study also quantified the concentration of active ingredients in each nail polish remover using a greener analytical technique: the standard addition NMR method. The amount of nail polish remover needed for lethality in manicurists was calculated. It was determined that lethality is not the only factor to be considered in toxicology but routes of exposure are equally if not more important. Finally, a discussion of ethics and economics of the nail industry was included to create a holistic approach to the analysis and understanding of a consumer issue.