Another option is to use the product outdoors. A dust mask will not protect you from exposure to solvents. If you frequently use oil-based products, a respirator is a good health investment. Some commonly used solvents cause serious environmental problems when released into urban air. They may help form urban ozone, contribute to stratospheric ozone depletion, and contribute to groundwater pollution.
Paint removers are among the most toxic products in the home.
Most either contain flammable and toxic solvents such as toluene, xylene, acetone, and methanol, or they contain methylene chloride, a cancer-causing agent. Two brands that contain very hazardous ingredients are Bix and Homer Formby's. Less-hazardous, waterborne products, such as Safest Stripper and Easy Off Paint Stripper, have recently become available. Another alternative for paint removal is a heat gun, but these can cause fires or make hazardous chemicals in the paint airborne. Take special care when dealing with lead-based paint .