March 21, 2025

The Truth About "Free-From" Nail Polish: Why 12-Free is the Gold Standard

By Isabella Laurent

When Adesse New York launched a decade ago, the concept of "clean beauty for nails" was virtually nonexistent. Traditional nail polishes contained a host of harmful chemicals linked to allergies, skin irritation, and even long-term health concerns.

As pioneers in the industry, Adesse New York introduced the 12-Free standard—formulating nail products without the 12 most toxic ingredients commonly found in conventional polishes.

Over the years, the term "free-from" has evolved, with brands now touting 15-Free, 17-Free, 21-Free, and beyond. But the reality is, these claims are often misleading. There are only 12 distinct ingredients that are relevant to nail polish formulations, and once those are removed, any additional "free-from" claims tend to include substances that were never used in nail products to begin with.

What Does 12-Free Really Mean?

12-Free is the industry gold standard in clean nail care. It means that Adesse New York's formulas are made without the 12 most harmful ingredients:

Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde Resin
Toluene
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)
Camphor
Triclosan
Sulfates
Xylene
Phosphates
Parabens
GMOs
Triphenyl Phosphate (TPHP)

These chemicals have been linked to respiratory issues, skin irritation, hormone disruption, and environmental damage. By removing them, Adesse New York has ensured that its formulas are not only safer for consumers but also healthier for the planet.

The Myth of 21-Free and Beyond

As clean beauty has gained popularity, some brands have started marketing 15-Free, 17-Free, or even 21-Free nail polishes. However, these claims often rely on fear-based marketing rather than scientific formulation improvements. Many of the additional ingredients they claim to exclude were never present in nail polishes in the first place, making these claims more of a marketing tactic than a meaningful advancement in clean beauty.

Furthermore, terms like "nontoxic" remain largely unregulated, meaning brands can define them however they choose. Without industry-wide standards, these labels can be misleading and do not necessarily indicate a safer product.

Beyond Free-From: Why Ingredients Matter

At Adesse New York, clean beauty is NOT just a buzzword. Our formulations not only remove harmful chemicals but also infuse nails with organic botanical extracts, strengthening peptides, and plant-based ingredients that nourish and protect. Unlike conventional polishes that strip nails of moisture and resilience, Adesse New York's products promote healthier, stronger nails with every use.

Additionally, our commitment to vegan and cruelty-free beauty ensures that our formulas are never tested on animals and contain no animal-derived ingredients. Certifications from organizations like PETA and Leaping Bunny guarantee this commitment.

Why Choosing Clean Nail Polish Matters

The reality is, certain chemicals in nail polish can pose real risks. The combination of inhalation exposure and absorption through the nail bed can contribute to irritation, allergic reactions, and, over time, more serious health concerns. By choosing a trusted, science-backed clean beauty brand like Adesse New York, consumers can enjoy luxurious, high-performance nail care without compromise.

As the original pioneers of 12-Free nail care, Adesse New York remains dedicated to transparency, safety, and innovation in the beauty industry. While trends may come and go, one thing remains constant: when it comes to clean nail care, 12-Free is—and always will be—the gold standard.

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