Nitrocellulose
The main film former in nail polish. It builds a strong glossy film that stays on the nail. It does not affect skin in the finished polish.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Nitrocellulose (INCI same) is the main film-former in nail polish. It creates a hard, glossy film that adheres and holds up on the nail. It is the base that gives structure to most classic lacquers. On efficacy: this is a purely functional ingredient, not a skincare active. Its value lies in the hardness, shine and adhesion of the polish. At that task it is one of the pillars of polish formulation. It is applied on the nail and not meaningfully absorbed through it. In the dried polish it barely contacts skin. It can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is high: low irritation and allergy potential. Apply in a ventilated spot because of the solvents that accompany the formula while drying, but the polymer itself is well tolerated.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nitrocellulose safe during pregnancy?
Nitrocellulose is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Nitrocellulose for?
Nitrocellulose suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Nitrocellulose and what does it do in cosmetics?
The main film former in nail polish.
What's the INCI name for Nitrocellulose?
The INCI name is Nitrocellulose.
See Nitrocellulose in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Nitrogen, Nylon-12, o-Cymen-5-ol, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Oil, Polyquaternium-37, Stearalkonium Hectorite, C13-15 Alkane, Disodium Succinate
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