Base Coat

We believe in high-performance formulas without compromise. Our nail polish is proudly 16-free, which means it’s made without the most common toxic or irritating ingredients found in traditional formulas. No formaldehyde. No parabens. No animal-derived ingredients. Just clean, conscious colour.

This gel polish does not contain:

• Formaldehyde – A potent preservative and nail hardener, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can cause skin and respiratory irritation.

• Formaldehyde resin – Derived from formaldehyde, this ingredient is associated with allergic reactions and can sensitize the skin around the nails.
  

• Toluene – A solvent that may cause dizziness, headaches, and skin irritation — often linked to nervous system effects when inhaled.

• Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) – Used to improve flexibility in polish, DBP is banned in the EU due to its link to hormonal disruption and reproductive toxicity.

• Camphor – Once used to give polish a glossy finish, camphor may cause nausea and dizziness and has been linked to nail discoloration.

• Xylene – A solvent that can trigger headaches and skin irritation and has been flagged for its potential systemic toxicity.

• Parabens – Common preservatives known to mimic estrogen in the body and raise concerns about hormonal interference.

• Triphenyl phosphate (TPHP)  – A plasticizer that improves polish durability, but studies suggest it may interfere with hormone function.

• Ethyl tosylamide – Banned in Europe, this plasticizer has been linked to antibiotic resistance and is not permitted in clean formulas.

• Phthalates – This group of chemicals has been associated with hormone disruption and developmental risks.

• Fragrance – Used to mask chemical odors, “fragrance” can contain undisclosed allergens and is a common trigger for irritation.

• Animal-derived ingredients – Our formula is vegan and cruelty-free — no animal byproducts, and never tested on animals.

• Benzophenone-1 – A UV filter used to prevent discolouration, but flagged for potential hormone disruption and carcinogenic concerns.

• Benzophenone-3 (oxybenzone) – Another UV absorber, with similar concerns around endocrine disruption and skin sensitivity.

• Styrene – Used in shimmery or glitter formulas, styrene has been classified as a possible carcinogen and may irritate skin and eyes.

16-Free
Non-GMO
Vegan
Not Tested on Animals
Developed by Nail Artists
Designed in Canada
Made in USA

We’re Gelcare, a nail care brand, and it’s time to become your own nail artist. Our mission is to elevate the at-home experiences, focusing on providing beauty lovers with a refined approach to nail care.

Gelcare is stocked exclusively at Gelcare’s flagship salon and store, Le Manoir. Founded in 2012 and based in Montreal, Le Manoir is recognized as one of the top nail salons in Canada. It is our founder’s signature manicure techniques and unparallelled standard of service, that have established her and her team as best in class. Le Manoir artists are renowned for their impeccable artistry and unprecedented ability to grow and strengthen their customers’ natural nails. Through Gelcare, our goal is to pass along this expertise to you.