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Public Advocate Letitia James Recommends Changes To Nail Salon Health And Safety Policy

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The demand for a nice manicure in New York City has never been higher and there are salons in every neighborhood.

But New York City Public Advocate Letitia James says despite the thousands of nail salons across the five boroughs, there are only 27 inspectors in the entire state to keep track of salon cleanliness and safety.

Public Advocate Letitia James Recommends Changes To Nail Salon Health And Safety Policy

James released a report Monday that proposed the city take over those inspections, especially for the health and safety of the nail salon workers whom she says are constantly working with chemicals whose risks they may not be aware of, 1010 WINS' Sonia Rincon reported.

"Out of the 10,000 chemicals contained in nail products, 89 percent have not been tested by an independent agency for safety," James said.

There are familiar chemicals known as the "Toxic Trio," including the formaldehyde that makes your polish dry fast, but has been linked to cancer, Rincon reported.

"Chemicals that are found in many nail salons have been linked with reproductive harm, respiratory problems, and cancer," James said.

James is also calling for a safety study and steps to improve air quality at nail salons.

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