Frequently Asked Questions

Unlearning whole hand - green polish with tapestry in background | Boldly Nail Polish

The 21-Free Standard

Many nail polish brands stop at 8-Free or 10-Free.

Boldly goes further.

Our 21-Free, acrylate-free suspension base is formulated without many of the common sensitizers found in traditional polish and gel systems — including HEMA and other acrylate monomers linked to contact dermatitis.

We created Boldly for those who:

  • Have experienced gel polish reactions

  • Want a safer alternative without UV lamps

  • Care about ingredient transparency

  • Refuse to compromise on performance

This FAQ explains how our formula works, what we avoid, and why it matters.

  • Boldly was created specifically for people who have experienced irritation from traditional nail polish or gel products.

    Our 21-Free suspension base is formulated without many of the most common nail allergens — including acrylates and HEMA monomers — which are frequently linked to contact dermatitis and gel polish sensitivities.

    If you have experienced:

    • Itching or redness around the cuticle

    • Burning during or after gel manicures

    • Peeling or lifting after polish wear

    • Sensitivity to UV-cured systems

    Boldly was formulated with you in mind.

    While no cosmetic product can guarantee zero allergic reaction for every person, our formula is intentionally designed to reduce exposure to common sensitizers.

  • “21-Free” means our formula is developed without 21 commonly questioned or sensitizing chemicals found in traditional nail products.

    Many “clean” brands are 8-Free, 10-Free, or 12-Free.

    Boldly goes further.

    Our 21-Free base avoids:

    • Toluene

    • Formaldehyde

    • DBP (dibutyl phthalate)

    • Camphor

    • Triphenyl phosphate (TPHP)

    • Ethyl tosylamide

    • Xylene

    • Parabens

    • And critically — acrylate and HEMA monomers

    That last distinction is important.

    Many gel alternatives and hybrid systems still contain acrylates or photoinitiators. Boldly does not.

  • No.

    Boldly is a high-performance, solvent-evaporation lacquer.

    It delivers a gel-like finish and durability without:

    • UV lamps

    • LED curing

    • Photoinitiators

    • HEMA or acrylate monomers

    Our formula cures through air evaporation, not polymerization under light.

    This reduces the risk of sensitization associated with repeated UV gel exposure.

  • Acrylate monomers (including HEMA) are among the leading causes of nail cosmetic allergies and contact dermatitis.

    They are commonly found in:

    • Gel polish systems

    • Builder gels

    • Some “gel-like” hybrids

    Once someone develops an acrylate allergy, it can limit their ability to receive certain dental or medical procedures in the future due to cross-reactivity.

    Boldly’s suspension base eliminates these monomers entirely.

    This makes it a safer alternative for individuals who:

    • Have known acrylate sensitivity

    • Have experienced gel polish reactions

    • Prefer to avoid UV-cured systems

  • The term “non-toxic” is not regulated in cosmetics and is often used loosely.

    Boldly focuses on evidence-based formulation rather than marketing buzzwords.

    Our formula:

    • Meets modern cosmetic safety standards

    • Avoids common high-risk solvents and plasticizers

    • Is designed for performance without unnecessary irritants

    We prioritize ingredient transparency and chemical safety over trend-driven claims.

  • Boldly was inspired by personal nail health challenges and a desire for safer alternatives .

    Our ideal customer often:

    • Has experienced irritation from traditional polish

    • Wants to enjoy nail care without discomfort

    • Values ingredient awareness

    While we always recommend reviewing the full ingredient list if you have specific allergies, Boldly is intentionally formulated for those seeking a gentler option.

  • Yes.

    Boldly does not test on animals and does not use animal-derived ingredients.

  • When applied properly:

    1. Clean, dry nail plate

    2. Thin base layer

    3. 2–4 thin color coats

    4. Quality top coat

    Most customers experience strong wear with minimal chipping.

    Because our formula is solvent-based rather than UV-cured, removal is simple and does not require soaking or scraping.

  • Many brands market themselves as:

    • 8-Free

    • 10-Free

    • 12-Free

    Boldly’s 21-Free, acrylate-free system places it at the higher end of ingredient exclusion.

    We focus on:

    • Allergy-aware formulation

    • Gel-like performance without UV

    • Ingredient transparency

    • Empowerment through self-expression

    Our tone is confident, warm, and grounded — not trend-chasing

  • Boldly is for people who:

    • Want clean nail polish without compromising performance

    • Have experienced gel polish sensitivity

    • Prefer acrylate-free formulas

    • Care about what goes on their body

    • Love expressive, intentional color

    Bold can mean loud.

    Bold can mean quiet.

    Bold can mean safe.

    We let you define it.