What Are Nail Polish Ingredients?
When it comes to nail polish, there are plenty of options on the market. From classic cremes to innovative holographic lacquers, the selection is seemingly endless. While each type offers a unique style, there are some key similarities when it comes to nail polish ingredients. The main types of nail polish ingredients include resins, pigments, thickening agents, and ultraviolet stabilizers.
Resins are tough polymers that string together smaller molecules to produce a strong film. They give nail polish its structure and make it stick to the nails. There are two kinds of resins that are used in nail polish: film-forming and adhesive. Film-forming resins give the polish its glossy texture, while adhesive polymers reduce the brittleness of the nail polish. Other important nail polish ingredients are diluents, which help the other chemicals dissolve and spread evenly on the nails; pigments, which give the polish its color; and glitter particles, which add sparkle. Finally, thickening agents, such as stearalkonium hectorite, are added to keep the nail polish thick and make it easy to apply. UV-stabilizers, such as benzophenone-1, are also common in nail polish because they prevent the color from changing when exposed to sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet light.
Nail polish has been around for a while, but it wasn’t until World War 1 that nitrocellulose, a chemical derived from cotton fibers, became available. This ingredient allowed for the creation of liquid nail polish. This new formula was a game changer, as it allowed for quicker and more precise application of the paint on the nails. This was a huge step towards creating the modern manicure we know and love today.
The long list of chemicals on the back of a nail polish bottle can be intimidating, but understanding some of the basics of nail polish ingredients can help demystify the process. While studies have shown that some chemicals can be absorbed through the skin, it is still unclear whether they have harmful health effects at the concentrations found in traditional nail polishes.
As the nail polish industry continues to evolve, more and more people are choosing nontoxic nail polishes in order to reduce their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. However, it is important to remember that even the best green nail polishes can contain some chemicals. Fortunately, there are new methods being developed that will allow for nail polishes to dry and cure almost instantly without the need for ultraviolet curing lamps, which emit the harmful UVA and UVB rays that can damage the skin. In the meantime, check out our top picks for the best non-toxic nail polishes. These eco-friendly options can be the perfect alternative for any manicure. Vernis à Ongles