[HANASHIR:13065] Re: Finger picking

[Gayle Joseph <gaylejoseph...>]

I would be remiss in not sending out my 2 cents on this one...  I studied 
Holistic Nutrition and Health for a few years and would never recommend anyone 
using nail polish or getting acrylic nails put on - especially on a regular 
basis.  Particularly, if you are having acrylic nails done, PLEASE make sure 
they are not using an adhesive with Methyl Methacrylate in it.  It is VERY 
toxic.  READ THE LABEL - EVEN AT YOUR MANICURIST - INSIST ON SEEING IT!

For any women who have their nails polished or use acrylics PLEASE know that 
both have been shown to cause some forms of infertility and birth defects 
(especially in male babies).  If you are considering getting pregnant or are 
pregnant, please do not use nail polishes or acrylic nails.  Read all of your 
cosmetic labels (polish, lotions, make-up, etc.).  If any of them contain 
Phthalates, consider throwing them away.  

I certainly don't want to alarm any of you, but I certainly don't want to stand 
by this thread and not let you know that you might be doing something that may 
be of harm to you or your unborn children.

Noah's recommendation of a natural strengthener is a VERY good one.  The 
product he cited works well and there are lots of others out there.  Good ol' 
knox gelatin is a good one, as is any seaweed product (which vegetarian 
gelatins are derived from).  If you want more info, send me a note off line and 
I'll dig through my old files on this subject and also see if I can find the 
latest research on Phthalates and other such chemicals used in these products 
as well as natural alternatives.

Only the best to you all,
Gayle Joseph
gaylejoseph (at) attbi(dot)com