|
|
Article: Nail Polish
- Article from:
- How Products Are Made
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 1994 Gale Research Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
Nail Polish
Background
Unlike many other cosmetics that have a history of hundreds or even thousands of years, nail polish (or lacquer, or enamel) is almost completely an invention of twentieth century technology. Nail coverings were not unknown in ancient times
—
the upper classes of ancient Egypt probably used henna to dye both hair and fingernails
—
but essentially, its composition, manufacture and handling reflect developments in modern chemical technology.
Modern nail polish is sold in liquid form in small bottles and is applied with a tiny brush. Within a few minutes after application, the substance hardens and forms a shiny coating on the fingernail that is both water- ...