Nail Polish Remover Sold on Amazon Recalled Over Cancer-Causing Chemicals

The agency said both chemicals are unapproved for use in cosmetic formulations and could harm consumers.
Published: 4/13/2026, 3:56:18 PM EDT
Nail Polish Remover Sold on Amazon Recalled Over Cancer-Causing Chemicals
Recalled Gel Nail Polish Remover manufactured in China announced by Morovan on April 9, 2026 over presence of harmful chemicals (FDA)

A nail polish remover manufactured in China and sold online has been recalled after federal testing found it contained two hazardous chemicals known to pose serious health risks, including cancer.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced on Monday that Morovan is recalling its Gel Nail Polish Remover (15ml) after laboratory analysis detected methylene chloride and chloroform—both banned substances under federal cosmetic safety rules.

According to the FDA’s April 13 recall notice, the product’s ingredients violated U.S. regulations because methylene chloride is “not allowed in cosmetics at any level.” The agency said both chemicals are unapproved for use in cosmetic formulations and could harm consumers.

The recalled product comes in a 15-milliliter turquoise bottle with a white cap and is packaged in a green box. It was sold by Hongkong Yiixin Trading Limited, trading as Nails Studio, on Amazon.com from August 2025 through January 2026. Approximately 4,000 units were distributed, with no injuries or illnesses reported so far.

Consumers are urged to stop using the remover immediately. The FDA said customers should clearly label the bottle and packaging with the word “Recalled” before tossing it in the trash. Afterward, consumers are asked to photograph the discarded product—showing the “Recalled” label—and email the image to [email protected] for a refund.

The affected remover, described as intended for “fast, safe, and gentle removal of gel nail polish and builder gel,” was produced on Feb. 7, 2024, with an expiration date of Feb. 7, 2027.

Both chemicals found in the product are known to have concerning health effects. According to the Ohio State University’s Department of Environmental Health and Safety, methylene chloride—also known as dichloromethane—is a volatile, colorless liquid that can cause harm to the central nervous system and has been linked to cancer in animals. The Environmental Protection Agency issued a final rule in April 2024 banning the manufacture, processing, and sale of methylene chloride for consumer use due to its neurotoxic and carcinogenic risks.

The university’s fact sheet notes that acute exposure to methylene chloride has been responsible for at least 88 occupational deaths in the United States between 1985 and 2024, and chronic exposure can cause liver and lung cancer.

Chloroform, similarly, is a colorless liquid with a strong, sweet odor used in industrial and chemical manufacturing processes. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services warns that prolonged contact or inhalation can lead to dizziness, headaches, and potential liver and kidney damage, with animal studies linking it to cancerous liver and kidney tumors.

While naturally occurring in trace amounts, most chloroform in the environment is man-made, forming as a byproduct in certain chemical processes or water treatment. People may be exposed through air, skin contact, or contaminated drinking water.

Consumers with questions may contact Morovan’s customer service at [email protected] for further instructions or a refund.