High concernSolvent
Toluene
Possible neurotoxinReproductive toxicantSkin irritant
What it is
An aromatic hydrocarbon solvent derived from petroleum and coal tar.
What it does
Solvent in nail polish, paint thinners, and some adhesives.
Why it’s a concern
Well-documented neurotoxin at occupational exposures; chronic inhalation causes cognitive impairment and hearing loss (NIOSH and ATSDR reviews). Pregnancy exposure associated with fetal solvent syndrome. Largely removed from reformulated “5-free” and “10-free” nail polishes.
Also known as
methylbenzenetoluolphenylmethane
CAS numbers
108-88-3
Commonly found in
nail polishpaint thinneradhesives
Safer alternatives
- water-based nail polish
- 3-free or 10-free polish
Related chemical families
Sources
- ATSDR Toxicological Profile for Toluene