My Baby Ate Nail Polish | Illinois Poison Center

What It Is: Nail polish is a lacquer applied to finger or toe nails as a cosmetic. There are several different formulations such as base coat, color coat and top coat. There are many brands of nail polish including OPI, Revlon, Essie, Orly, Sally Hansen, etc.

Toxicity: Nail polish is considered to be minimally toxic in a taste/lick amount and is considered to be a mild irritant to the stomach or intestines.

Toxicity Level: Minimally toxic in small amounts such as a taste or lick.

Possible Symptoms of o\Overdose or Poisoning: Mild mouth or throat irritation, or one episode of vomiting may occur.

This information applies to children who have unintentionally swallowed a small amount. If the child swallowed more than one mouthful, is having symptoms, or if you are not positive of the exact substance or amount swallowed, call your local Poison Center immediately 1-800-222-1222 to speak to a nurse, pharmacist or physician for recommendations specific to your situation. The call is free and confidential.

The Illinois Poison Center is dedicated to reducing the incidence and injury of poisoning in our communities through immediate expert telephone treatment recommendations, innovative public and healthcare professional education, and focused research.

The IPC serves as the state's leading source of advanced toxicology training and consultation for healthcare professionals. Working closely with colleges and universities in Illinois, the IPC provides curriculum for nursing, pharmacy and medical students to further their knowledge of toxicology.
The IPC engages volunteers within Illinois communities to help provide the general public with outreach education on poison prevention information on potentially harmful substances. The IPC also partners with public health agencies, such as the CDC, to monitor related hazardous threats.