Nail polish is more than just a beauty product—it has a rich history, unique chemical composition, and various types that cater to different preferences. In this article, we will explore what nail polish is made of, how it has evolved over time, and the different types available today.
We will also clarify the differences between nail polish, nail paint, nail lacquer, and nail varnish. Additionally, we’ll provide guidance on how to apply nail polish correctly, how many layers to use, and discuss both the benefits and drawbacks of using it.
Whether you’re a nail care enthusiast or just curious about this popular cosmetic, this guide will give you all the essential information you need.
What Is Nail Polish
Nail polish is a polymer-based cosmetic formulation applied to fingernails and toenails for both aesthetic enhancement and protective purposes. Its composition includes film-forming agents such as nitrocellulose, plasticizers to improve flexibility, resins for adhesion, and pigments for color vibrancy.
Nail polish enhances the beauty of nails by adding color, shine, and a polished appearance, making hands look more groomed and stylish. It helps conceal imperfections, giving nails a smooth and flawless finish. Different finishes, such as glossy, matte, or shimmer, allow for creative self-expression and complement various fashion trends.
Opting for a manicure in Dubai, high-quality nail polish plays a crucial role in achieving a professional and long-lasting look.
What is The Chemical Composition of Nail Polish
According to Raina Kasera and her team, nail polish is composed of three main constituents: solvents, film-forming agents, and plasticizers. Solvents like ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, and isopropyl alcohol keep the polish in liquid form, ensuring smooth application and even film formation before evaporating to leave a hardened finish. Film-forming agents, primarily nitrocellulose, create a glossy, durable layer that binds pigments, while resins such as tosylamide-formaldehyde enhance adhesion and chip resistance. Plasticizers like camphor, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), or newer alternatives such as triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) maintain flexibility, preventing brittleness and cracking.
Additionally, nail polish shades are determined by pigments and colorants like iron oxides, which provide red and yellow tones, titanium dioxide provides opacity, ultramarines add blue hues, and pearlescent effects come from mica, bismuth oxychloride, or aluminum powder.
According to a study by Somodyuti Chandra & Anupam Das, stabilizers like benzophenone-1 help resist color changes when the dry film is exposed to sunlight while also enhancing shelf life and consistency. Thickeners like stear alkonium hectorite keep sparkling particles suspended in the bottle, ensuring an even application.
Lastly, UV inhibitors, including benzophenone derivatives, protect colorants from photodegradation, preserving polish longevity, color vibrancy, and shine even under sunlight.
A Brief History of Nail Polish
According to Jeanette R Zambito, the history of nail polish dates back thousands of years, evolving from ancient status symbols to a modern beauty essential. Around 3500 BC, Babylonian warriors decorated their nails with ground minerals as a pre-battle ritual. In ancient Egypt, henna was used to stain nails a reddish-brown color, while the Greeks preferred pale yellow shades made from flower petals and potassium salts.
By 3000 BC, the Chinese developed a more advanced nail lacquer composed of beeswax and egg whites, with gold and silver shades becoming popular by 1000 BC. Nail adornment remained a marker of social class, spreading across cultures over centuries.
The modern era of nail polish began in the 1920s when advances in automobile paint technology introduced nitrocellulose-based polishes, leading to the development of liquid nail polish. In 1937, glue-on appliques were introduced, and by the 1950s, acrylic nails were accidentally invented by a dentist attempting to repair a broken fingernail.
Today, nail polish continues to evolve, with formulations offering enhanced durability, aesthetics, and safety
How Many Types of There Nail Polish
There are various types of nail polish, each designed to meet different needs in terms of durability, finish, and application method. From classic formulas to advanced gel and acrylic options, nail polish offers versatility for different preferences and occasions. Some common types of nail polish include:
- Gel Nail Polish
- Traditional Nail Polish
- Acrylic Nail Polish
- Breathable Nail Polish
- Polygel Nail Polish
- Dip Powder Nail Polish
- Builder Gel Nail Polish
- Hard Gel Nail Polish
Gel Nail Polish
Gel nail polish is a specialized nail coating that cures under UV or LED light, forming a hard, durable, and flexible layer with a long-lasting, high-gloss finish. Gel polish undergoes a polymerization reaction triggered by light exposure, ensuring superior adhesion and chip resistance for up to three weeks.
The formulation consists of methacrylate and acrylate derivatives, which act as film-formers, while photoinitiators initiate polymerization under UV light, creating a cross-linked, resilient structure. Oligomers enhance viscosity, pigments provide color, plasticizers maintain flexibility, and stabilizers extend shelf life, making gel polish a preferred choice for flawless, long-lasting manicures.
According to Justyna Putek & Team, the exposure to LED or UV light in gel nail polish curing triggers polymerization, a chemical reaction in which the oligomers cross-link to form a hard, durable layer on the nails.
Gel polish offers several benefits, including long-lasting wear, superior adhesion, and chip resistance, ensuring a flawless, high-gloss manicure for up to three weeks.
However, despite its durability, prolonged UV exposure during curing and acetone-based removal processes contribute to nail thinning, brittleness, and potential skin irritation.
Traditional Nail Polish
Traditional nail polish is a widely used cosmetic product that provides color and protection to natural nails. Its formulation typically includes nitrocellulose dissolved in solvents such as ethyl acetate or butyl acetate, which, upon application, evaporate to leave a solid, colored film on the nail.
This type of polish does not require additional equipment like UV or LED lights for curing. Instead, it dries as the solvents evaporate, leaving behind a smooth and even finish. Traditional nail polish is available in various finishes, including glossy, matte, and shimmery.
Traditional nail polish offers several benefits, including ease of application, quick drying time, and the flexibility to change nail colors frequently.
However, it is prone to chipping and generally lasts about a week before showing signs of wear, making it less durable than gel polish.
Despite its shorter lifespan, traditional nail polish remains a popular choice due to its convenience and versatility.
Acrylic Nail Polish
Acrylic nail polish is a long-lasting nail enhancement created by combining a liquid monomer (ethyl methacrylate, EMA) with a polymer powder, forming a moldable paste that hardens into a strong protective layer. This process allows for extended nail length, shape customization, and high durability, making acrylics a preferred option for those seeking long-wear manicures.
According to the U.S Food & Drug administration, the chemical composition of acrylic nail products includes methacrylate monomers, plasticizers, and stabilizers, which play a crucial role in adhesion, flexibility, and structural integrity.
Acrylic nails are applied by mixing the liquid monomer with the polymer powder, forming a paste that can be sculpted onto the nail and left to harden naturally or with the help of an activator.
Acrylic nails offer strength, longevity, and aesthetic versatility, making them a popular choice for those who want durable, customizable manicures.
However, prolonged exposure to acrylates has been linked to contact dermatitis, respiratory issues, and nail plate damage. Improper removal involving acetone soaking and mechanical filing can further contribute to nail brittleness and thinning.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of toluene, dibutyl phthalates (DBP), and formaldehyde, which are non-biodegradable and contribute to chemical waste. Safe application requires proper ventilation, high-quality formulations, and responsible disposal practices to minimize health and environmental risks.
Breathable Nail Polish
Breathable nail polish is formulated to allow oxygen and water vapor to pass through the polish to the nail, promoting healthier nails and potentially extending the life of a manicure. This permeability helps maintain the nail’s natural moisture balance, reducing the likelihood of brittleness and peeling.
The chemical composition of breathable nail polish includes specially designed polymers that create a permeable structure, allowing oxygen and water molecules to pass through. Additionally, many formulas exclude harmful substances like formaldehyde, camphor, and toluene, making them a safer choice for regular use.
A study by Daniela Monti and Team evaluated the permeability of breathable cosmetic nail polishes and found that they allowed the passage of certain substances, supporting claims of water and oxygen permeability.
Breathable nail polish offers benefits such as healthier nails, reduced brittleness, and a longer-lasting manicure. It is also a safer option for individuals concerned about chemical exposure.
There are minimal risks associated with breathable nail polish, though its effectiveness may vary depending on the specific formulation. Some formulas may not provide the same level of durability as traditional or gel polishes.
For individuals who prefer continuous nail polish application without breaks, breathable formulas offer a healthier alternative by minimizing potential damage associated with traditional polishes.
Polygel Nail Polish
Polygel is a hybrid nail enhancement that combines the durability of acrylics with the flexibility of gel nails. It comes in a tube with a gel-like consistency and is applied to natural nails or nail extensions using a brush. After shaping, it’s cured under an LED or UV light, resulting in strong, lightweight nails.
Polygel consists of a combination of acrylic oligomers and photoinitiators, which allow it to remain moldable until cured under UV or LED light. Unlike acrylics, it does not require monomers or harsh chemicals, making it a low-odor option.
To apply polygel, a small amount is squeezed from the tube, spread onto the nail using a brush, and shaped as desired. Since it does not harden until cured, nail technicians have ample time to perfect the shape before setting it under a light.
According to Study, Polygel offers several benefits, including a natural feel, long-lasting wear, and enhanced flexibility compared to acrylics. It is also odor-free, making the application process more pleasant.
Despite its advantages, improper removal can lead to nail damage. To remove polygel safely, the top layer must be filed off before soaking the nails in acetone to prevent harm to the natural nail.
Unlike acrylics, polygel’s slow-setting nature allows for precise application, reducing the risk of mistakes and making it a preferred choice for both professionals and beginners.
Dip Powder Nail Polish
Dip powder nails, also known as SNS nails, are a popular manicure option that offers a durable and long-lasting finish.
The chemical composition of dip powder includes finely milled acrylic polymers, which bond to the nail when combined with a base coat and activator. Unlike gel or acrylic nails, dip powder does not require monomers or UV light for curing.
The application process involves applying a base coat to the natural nails, then dipping them into colored acrylic powder or sprinkling the powder over the nails. This process is repeated to achieve the desired opacity and strength. An activator is then applied to harden the powder layers, eliminating the need for UV or LED light curing. Finally, a top coat is applied to seal and add shine.
According to experts, dip powder nails offer several benefits, including exceptional longevity, lasting up to three weeks or more without chipping. They also provide a low-maintenance manicure and eliminate UV light exposure, offering a safer alternative to gel nails.
However, improper hygiene during application can lead to infections, and professional removal is recommended to avoid damage to the natural nails.
Ensuring proper hygiene and professional removal techniques helps maintain nail health while enjoying the durability and beauty of dip powder manicures.
Builder Gel Nail Polish
Builder gel is a thick-viscosity gel polish designed to enhance the length, strength, and thickness of natural nails or nail extensions. Unlike regular gel polish, its robust consistency allows for effective nail building, promoting durability and resilience.
Builder gel is formulated with oligomers and photoinitiators, which enable it to cure under UV or LED light, creating a strong and flexible structure that adheres well to natural nails.
The application process involves applying the gel in layers, sculpting the desired nail shape, and curing each layer under a UV or LED lamp to harden it.
Builder gel offers several benefits, including long-lasting wear (typically two to three weeks), enhanced nail strength, and the ability to create customized nail shapes and extensions.
However, improper application or removal can lead to nail damage, and its thicker consistency may require more skill to apply than regular gel polish.
This product provides a versatile solution for individuals seeking both aesthetic appeal and nail reinforcement, making it a popular choice for strengthening and extending nails.
Hard Gel Nail Polish
Hard gel nail polish is a durable nail enhancement option that offers greater strength and rigidity compared to standard gel polish, though it is not as robust as builder gel. This type of gel is commonly used to reinforce natural nails or extend their length.
Hard gel is formulated with strong oligomers and photoinitiators that require curing under a UV or LED light to harden and properly adhere to the nail surface. According to study, monomers that the photoinitiator pushes to polymerize are a mixture of various methacrylates, such as hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and di-HEMA trimethylhexyl dicarbamate, which function as cross-linkers between polymer chains. Unlike softer gels, hard gel is impervious to acetone, making it resistant to chemical exposure.
The application process involves applying the gel from a bottle in layers, sculpting the desired shape, and curing each layer under a UV or LED lamp to ensure durability.
Hard gel offers several benefits, including enhanced nail strength, long-lasting wear of up to four weeks, and the ability to be refilled instead of fully removed when new nail growth appears.
However, since hard gel cannot be soaked off with acetone, removal requires filing, which, if done improperly, can damage the natural nail.
The ability to fill in new growth without complete removal makes hard gel a convenient and long-lasting manicure solution for those seeking a strong and flexible nail enhancement.
What is the Difference Between Nail Polish and Nail Paint?
The terms “nail polish” and “nail paint” are often used interchangeably, but they have subtle differences in formulation, application, and finish.
Nail polish is a cosmetic product applied to fingernails and toenails to enhance their appearance, while some formulations marketed as nail paint feature a denser consistency for added protection. Nail polish consists of a film-forming polymer, such as nitrocellulose, dissolved in a volatile organic solvent like ethyl acetate or butyl acetate. In contrast, certain nail paints contain resins like alkyd or acrylic-based polymers, contributing to a thicker consistency and longer wear. After application, the solvent in nail polish evaporates, leaving a hard, glossy film, while thicker nail paint formulations reinforce the nails due to their denser structure.
Nail polish includes additional components like plasticizers, pigments, and adhesive polymers for flexibility, color, and adhesion, whereas some nail paints focus more on protective properties. Major nail polish brands collectively offer thousands of shades, spanning different colors, finishes, and effects. For example, Olive & June provides over 100 shades, featuring a wide range of colors and finishes, while Dazzle Dry offers over 40 colors, known for their quick-drying and long-lasting properties.
In conclusion, while both terms are used interchangeably, “nail polish” remains the more widely recognized term in both the cosmetic industry and scientific literature.
What Is the Difference Between Nail Lacquer and Nail Polish?
Nail lacquer and nail polish are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences in formulation, durability, and finish. Nail polish is a broad term for colored nail coatings that provide a decorative finish, while nail lacquer is a more refined version with a thicker consistency and higher durability.
Nail polish typically contains film-forming agents like nitrocellulose, plasticizers for flexibility, and solvents such as ethyl acetate, whereas according to research, nail lacquer is a solvent-based coating that creates a stronger, chip-resistant barrier. Nail lacquer lasts longer than traditional polish due to its enhanced formulation, while nail polish may chip more easily. Unlike gel polishes, both nail lacquer and nail polish dry naturally without requiring UV or LED curing, but nail lacquer offers a more long-lasting wear.
Technically, all modern nail polishes are a form of lacquer, and the term “nail polish” is a holdover from when nail coloring involved rubbing pigment onto nails with abrasives. Nail lacquer is typically thicker, making it more chip-resistant, while nail polish has a thinner consistency. Both products contain pigments and are applied with a brush, but nail lacquer is preferred for its high-gloss, long-wear finish.
What Is the Difference Between Nail Varnish and Nail Polish?
Nail varnish and nail polish are often used interchangeably, but they have differences in composition and function. Nail varnish is a fast-drying liquid coating that forms a protective, glossy layer on the nails, while nail polish is primarily used for decorative and aesthetic enhancement. Nail varnish consists of three main components: polymer molecules, dyes, and solvents, whereas nail polish includes film-forming agents, plasticizers, resins, and pigments for color vibrancy.
Nail varnish typically has a higher concentration of film-forming agents like nitrocellulose, making it more resistant to chipping and wear, whereas nail polish is formulated to offer a variety of finishes and may include conditioning agents for nail health. The color in nail varnish comes from dyes such as chromium oxide (green), Prussian blue (iron hexacyanoferrate), and titanium dioxide (white), while nail polish provides a broader range of shades and effects, including glossy, matte, shimmer, and metallic.
Nail varnish often contains solvents like butyl acetate or ethyl acetate, which evaporate quickly for faster drying, whereas nail polish drying speed depends on its formulation. Glitter-infused nail varnishes may include mica or aluminum powder for a reflective shine, while nail polish also features various decorative elements. While both products enhance the nails’ appearance, nail varnish is known for its protective, durable, and high-gloss finish, whereas nail polish is valued for its versatility, self-expression, and adaptability to trends.
How to Apply Nail Polish
Follow these steps to achieve a smooth, chip-resistant manicure:
1. Prep Your Nails
Start by cleaning your nails with acetone or an alcohol-based cleanser to remove oils and residue, as research shows that surface contaminants reduce polish adhesion. Trim and shape your nails, then gently buff them to create an even surface.
2. Apply a Base Coat
A high-quality base coat strengthens the nails and enhances polish adhesion. Studies indicate that base coats with keratin or calcium pantothenate improve nail health and prevent peeling.
3. Use Thin, Even Coats of Polish
Instead of applying one thick layer, use three thin coats for better durability. Research suggests that thin layers allow solvents to evaporate more effectively, leading to a flexible, chip-resistant film. Apply polish in three strokes: one in the center, followed by one on each side.
4. Allow Partial Drying Between Layers
Although the next coat reactivates the previous one, allowing a short drying time between layers helps reduce streaking and bubbles, ensuring a smoother finish.
5. Seal with a Top Coat
A fast-drying top coat enhances gloss and forms a protective barrier, extending polish wear time. Studies highlight that top coats with UV absorbers, such as benzophenone-1, help prevent color fading and maintain shine.
6. Apply Nail Oil After Drying
Once fully dry, massage cuticle oil around the nails to maintain flexibility and hydration. Research confirms that jojoba oil and vitamin E reduce brittleness, preventing cracks and premature chipping.
How Many Layers of Nail Polish Should I Put On?
You should put on one base coat, two thin color coats, and one top coat for a long-lasting, chip-resistant manicure. A thin base coat enhances adhesion and prevents staining, especially when formulated with polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or keratin-binding agents. Applying two thin layers of color ensures even distribution and allows proper solvent evaporation, reducing bubbles and cracks.
A single top coat seals the color, adds shine, and extends wear, with UV absorbers like benzophenone-1 preventing fading. Exceeding these layers can trap solvents, keeping the polish soft and prone to dents.
Benefits of Nail Polish
Nail polish offers several benefits beyond just aesthetics, helping to protect and maintain nail health. It can prevent damage, strengthen nails, and even support good nail care habits. Some key benefits of nail polish include:
- Stops Nail Biting
- Strengthens Nails
- Supports Nails
- Allows Nail Breathability
- Protects Against Infections
- Enhances Aesthetic Appeal
Stops Nail Biting
Nail biting, or onychophagia, is a compulsive habit often linked to stress, anxiety, or boredom. Clinical research has shown that applying nail polishes formulated with bitter-tasting compounds, such as denatonium benzoate, effectively discourages nail biting by creating an aversive sensory experience upon contact.
According to an article on anti-nail-biting lacquers incorporating bitter herbal extracts confirmed their ability to form a protective film while releasing bitterness, making them an effective deterrent. These formulations not only discourage biting through their unpleasant taste but also create a physical barrier over the nails, reinforcing habit-reversal techniques.
By incorporating nail polish into a regular self-care regimen, individuals can break the habit while simultaneously promoting healthier, stronger nails.
Strengthens Nails
Nail polish serves as more than just a cosmetic enhancement, providing strength and enhancing nail durability. Frequent exposure to water, environmental stressors, and chemical damage weakens nails, leading to brittleness and breakage. Applying nail polish reinforces the nail plate by creating a protective barrier that shields against moisture loss and external damage.
According to Somodyuti Chandra & Anupam Das, Nitrocellulose, the primary film-forming agent in nail polish, ensures adhesion to the nail plate while creating a breathable yet durable coating that enhances nail integrity. This layer minimizes moisture loss and prevents excessive fluctuations that lead to brittleness and breakage.
By incorporating strengthening nail polish into regular nail care routines, individuals can enhance nail durability and flexibility, reducing fragility over time.
Supports Nails
Nail polish forms a protective barrier that shields nails from moisture, friction, and environmental stressors, reducing the risk of brittleness, splitting, and peeling. Research highlights that film-forming agents like nitrocellulose enhance adhesion to the nail plate, reinforcing its structure and preventing damage.
According to Céline Couteau & Team, opaque nail polishes provide UV protection, preventing sun-induced weakening of the nails. By creating a resilient coating, nail polish supports nail integrity and enhances durability against daily wear.
Allows Nail Breathability
Nail polish provides a significant benefit by allowing oxygen and moisture to pass through its layer, preventing the nail from being completely sealed off—a feature known as breathability. This is made possible by using breathable nail polish, which incorporates a polymer suspension system that forms microscopic spaces, enabling oxygen and water vapor to diffuse through.
Research by Daniela Monti & Team indicates that breathable polishes utilize a structured polymer network to maintain controlled permeability. This breathability helps regulate moisture levels, preventing excessive dryness or buildup, which supports overall nail health.
Protects Against Infections
Nail polish infused with antifungal and antibacterial agents offers a protective barrier against infections, enhancing nail health. Ingredients like tea tree oil, known for their antimicrobial properties, are incorporated into these polishes to combat pathogens.
According to experts, enhanced Nail Polish contains Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree oil), a natural component that kills many types of fungal and bacterial organisms. Moreover, a study by Dina AbdelHamid & team confirms that tea tree oil may aid in treating onychomycosis ( a fungal nail infection ) without the side effects of medications or the risks associated with surgical procedures.
Additionally, according to Maura Di Vito & Team, MIX-modified green natural nail polish exhibits preventive activity by inhibiting fungal growth through the sustained release of its active ingredients over seven days. In contrast, essential oil-modified green natural nail polish functions as a natural drug with cytocidal effects on nails colonized by dermatophytes, though it requires application twice a week for effectiveness.
By integrating such antimicrobial agents, these specialized nail polishes provide a proactive approach to preventing fungal and bacterial infections, ensuring healthier nails.
Enhances Aesthetic Appeal
Nail polish serves as a powerful medium for aesthetic enhancement and self-expression, allowing individuals to showcase their personality and creativity through various colors and designs.
Engaging in nail care routines, such as manicures, not only enhances the visual appeal of nails but also positively influences psychological well-being. A study by Atsushi Kawakubo & akashi Oguchi highlighted that nail care services ( like applying nail polish ) elevate positive emotions, relaxation, and vitality, thereby boosting self-esteem and motivation.
Additionally, the choice of nail color can reflect one’s mood and identity, with different shades symbolizing various personality traits and emotions.
This form of self-adornment enables individuals to communicate aspects of their identity non-verbally, reinforcing the role of nail polish in personal expression and aesthetic satisfaction.
Drawback of Nail Polish
Potential Health Risks
Many conventional nail polishes contain toluene and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), chemicals known to pose health risks through inhalation and skin absorption. Many nail polishes labeled as ‘toluene-free’ and ‘DBP-free’ still contained these chemicals at concentrations exceeding safety limits.
Luda Kopelovich & Team found that 83% of tested products contained toluene, while 14% contained DBP, raising concerns about exposure risks for consumers and nail technicians. These findings highlight the need for stricter safety regulations in nail polish formulations
What is The Best Brand of Nail Polish?
The best nail polish brands offer high-quality formulas with long-lasting wear, vibrant pigmentation, and smooth application. Factors like durability, drying time, and non-toxic ingredients play a key role in determining the best options.
What is The Best Nail Polish Corrector Pen?
A high-quality best nail polish corrector pen allows for precise removal of excess polish around the nails, ensuring a flawless manicure. The best options feature an acetone-based formula, a fine-tip applicator, and refillable tips for extended use.
What is The Best Way to Store Nail Polish?
Proper storage extends the lifespan of nail polish by preventing thickening and separation. Keeping bottles upright in a cool, dark place and ensuring the caps are tightly sealed helps maintain consistency and prolong usability. In addition to these. There are several effective ways to store nail polish.
How to Prevent Nail Polish From Peeling Off?
To prevent peeling, start with clean, dry nails, use a base coat, apply thin layers, and finish with a top coat. Avoid exposing nails to water immediately after application and use quality formulas for longer-lasting wear. Moreover, you can also follow proper guidelines to keep nail polish from peeling off.
Why Is It Important to Remove Nail Polish Correctly?
Proper removal prevents nail damage, dryness, and staining. Using a gentle, acetone-free remover and hydrating nails afterward helps maintain nail health and prevents brittleness or peeling. You can also follow effective methods to remove nail polish at home.
What is The Best Non-Toxic Nail Polish Remover?
Best Non-toxic nail polish removers use natural ingredients like soy or essential oils instead of harsh chemicals. They effectively remove polish while keeping nails hydrated and free from damage.
