FORMALDEHYDE
FORMALDEHYDE [fawr-mal-duh-hahyd]
What it is: A colorless, flammable, strong-smelling, water-soluble gas, CH2O, usually derived from methyl alcohol by oxidation, which is used chiefly as a disinfectant and preservative, and in the manufacture of various resins and plastics. It can be found in many household products and materials such as fabrics, furniture and flooring.
How to use it: A reactive chemical ingredient, it is often used to cross-link nail keratin to improve hardness. It is used in the manufacture of nail products as a hardener in small quantities and at these low levels is deemed safe for use.
