Toluene
A nail-polish solvent that gives a smooth application and holds pigment. Its vapors are neurotoxic when inhaled, with a separate concern over reproductive toxicity. The EU caps its concentration in polish and requires a keep-away-from-children warning.
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
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Avoid
- Suitable for
- Normal
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
Frequently asked questions
Is Toluene safe during pregnancy?
Toluene is not recommended during pregnancy. Consider an alternative from the same category.
What skin types is Toluene for?
Toluene suits: normal. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Can Toluene irritate the skin?
Toluene has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
What is Toluene and what does it do in cosmetics?
A nail-polish solvent that gives a smooth application and holds pigment.
What's the INCI name for Toluene?
The INCI name is Toluene. It may also appear as: Methylbenzene.
See Toluene 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
Toluene Sulfonic Acid, Triacetin, Triacontanyl PVP, Tribehenin, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood) Oil, Glyceryl Stearate SE, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Trioleate, Propylene Carbonate
Published: · updated: