Healthy Nail Salon Reward Program

Healthy Nail Salon Program Overview:

San Mateo County’s Healthy Nail Salon Program promotes nail salons that are healthier for customers, employees, and the planet. The Program supports local businesses by: 

• Certifying salons committed to using less toxic products, safer practices, and better ventilation.
• Providing incentives to San Mateo County residents who are customers of certified nail salons.

The Program was launched in 2013 due to health concerns for nail technicians and customers exposed to hazardous chemicals found in nail salon products. Health impacts linked to nail salon chemicals include cancer, birth defects, asthma, rashes, and more. 

The next time you get your nails done, choose a Healthy Nail Salon, because “Pretty Shouldn’t Stink.”

What Makes a Nail Salon Healthy? 

Safer Products 

• Nail polishes without the toxic trio (toluene, dibutyl phthalate, and formaldehyde) which may cause cancer.
• Nail polish thinners without toluene and methyl ethyl ketone.
• Nail polish removers without ethyl acetate and butyl acetate, which irritate eyes and skin.
• Artificial nails without methyl methacrylate (MMA), which can cause birth defects and rashes.

Safer Practices

• Employees wear gloves when working with chemicals.
• Technicians use ventilation units when providing artificial nail services to remove harmful fumes and dust from the air.

The California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology regulates other health aspects of nail salons, such as inspecting them for cleanliness. To make a sanitation complaint, click here. 

Certified Healthy Nail Salons in San Mateo County

Other Healthy Nail Salon Programs