Facts About Nail Polish
Throughout history, nail art has been a popular activity for many cultures. In ancient Egypt, it is believed that the upper classes may have used henna to dye their fingernails. However, the first recorded use of nail paint was in 3000 BC in China.
While there are numerous ways to apply nail polish, it is important to remember that there are a number of factors that determine its consistency, durability, and appearance. These factors include the types of solvents, pigments, and resins that are used in the formulation. It is also important to know that the ingredients in your nail polish are tested for safety.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees the safety of all nail products. The FDA does not approve a product before it is sold, but they do test it to ensure that it is safe. The FDA can work with companies to issue recalls if unsafe products are found. If you have a complaint about a product, you can file a complaint with your local consumer complaint coordinator.
Traditionally, nail polish is made up of two resins. The first is a film-forming agent, which provides a shiny surface to the polish. The second is an adhesive polymer, which makes the film more flexible. When the film dries, it forms a hard layer that adheres to the nail bed.
The film-forming agent is commonly nitrocellulose. This is dissolved in the polish's solvent and acts as a thin, protective layer on the nail. When the polish dries, it forms a hard film that protects the moist product underneath.
The resins add depth and gloss to the film. They also make the lacquer more flexible and less brittle. This means that it will not chip or peel off.
The colorants are also important in nail polish. The pigments are either organic or inorganic. Usually, they are used in combination with thickeners to prevent separation. This results in a smooth, even distribution of the colorants within the product.
Other ingredients in the polish can include micas, which are reflective particles. These particles are small, and can be used to achieve a pearlescent effect. The FDA regulates the ingredients in nail polish by maintaining lists of acceptable and unacceptable pigments. The FDA is constantly changing these lists, as new studies come out.
Unlike earlier methods, modern nail polish manufacturers use advanced machinery and robotics to manufacture their products. This allows them to produce a long-lasting, water-resistant finish that can last for several days. Most consumers today expect their polish to be easy to apply and be dermatologically safe.
In addition to the basic ingredients, the finished product is also tested for abrasion resistance, smoothness, gloss, and drying time. The final polish is pumped into smaller bottles for retail sale. During the manufacturing process, extreme quality control is imperative. This is especially true because a single bottle of poor-quality polish can cost the consumer their business.
The FDA also regulates the ingredients in all nail products that are marketed as treatments for nail ailments. These products are regulated as medications, and the FDA can work with companies to issue recalls.