How Does Nail Polish Work?

Using Nail Polish Cosmetically

Traditionally worn by women, nail polish has been used to make a fashion statement since 3000 BC. Once applied to the nails, nail polish will last until it grows out, wears off, or is removed with nail polish remover. Nail polish should be removed from the nails before repainting the nails another color.

Application

Traditionally, nail polish is applied to the finger nails and toe nails with a small brush. The brush is attached to the cap of the nail polish bottle. To paint nails, remove the brush from the bottle. Wipe the brush on the inner rim of the bottle to remove excess paint. Apply the nail polish to the nail. Start at the base of the nail, painting in a straight line, toward the tip of the nail. Continue until all nails are painted.

Constituents

While several of today's leading brands of nail polish are water-based, the majority of nail polishes contain nitrocellulose dissolved in butyl acetate. The latter is considered less environmentally conscious. Environmentally conscious communities embrace water-based nail polish, as nail polish has been labeled a "hazardous waste" by several regulatory bodies. Some of these regulatory bodies include the Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District, and Fairfax County, Virginia.