Classic household paints, regardless of brand, color, or sheen contain up to 10,000 chemicals. 150 of these are known carcinogens. Some of the most harmful chemicals found in paint are volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. As these paints dry, VOCs are released into the air at high levels. When these react with other elements already in the air, health issues including breathing problems, headache, and nausea may result. Some VOCs have also been linked to cancer, kidney and liver damage. Most major paint manufacturers now carry low VOC and zero VOC paints. Nor do these cost any more than regular paints. Just ask your local paint or hardware supply store for a low VOC or zero VOC alternative for the color you want. We used zero VOC interior paint for the entire home at Plymouth. Less risk of harmful chemicals off-gassing from the paint adds to a safe and healthy environment for generations to come.