There’s more to bringing the beauty industry and green scientists together, all at one table, then might first meet the eye. By the time I presented our panel of beauty experts, moderated by Rachelle Carson Begley, last weekend in my Greening Hollywood: Guild by Guild seminar and workshop, I had learned a lot. I had learned more than just that Tarte has come out with a game-changing mascara called Lights, Camera, Lashes! and that O.P.I. had removed all three of the most harmful chemicals in their nail polish, and that Suki Pure has re-defined how to be profitable and committed to pure ingredients in the cosmetic industry.

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Many nail polishes contain the chemical dibutyl phthalate, a plasticizing ingredient used to increase flexibility. Phthalates (pronounced FAL-lates) are known endocrine disruptors, which means the chemical interferes with the hormone system affecting growth, development and maturation. The thing is, companies aren't required to list the presence of this chemical on products that contain it.

While it is not proven that such small quantities of phthalates found in things like nail polish can cause harm in humans, it also wouldn't hurt to stay away from them if you can.

Nail polish manufacturers Sally Hansen and OPI have recently removed dibutyl phthalate from their products.

The ladies over at Ideal Bite have also suggested a few brands that steer clear of the chemical.

• Sante Kosmetics line of phthalate free polish
• Honey Bee Gardens water based polish
• SpaRitual Nail Lacquer

Amy says: My toes are usually painted year round; however before sandal wearing season kicks in I'll usually go to my neighborhood nail salon for a pedicure. While I love their color selection, I make sure to take my own, phthalate-free polish.