Nail polish has long been popular among beauty-conscious individuals, adding a touch of style to hands with its vibrant colors.

However, many may not realize that nail polish is quite similar to paint in its components and characteristics.

Nail polish contains highly volatile organic solvents that allow it to remain liquid during application, evenly covering the nail surface, and then quickly evaporating to form a dry film layer. Common ingredients in nail polish include toluene, acetone, ethyl acetate, and more.

While these chemicals generally don't pose health risks when used in moderation, prolonged exposure or excessive use may have potential health effects.

The modern nail art industry has developed rapidly, offering various techniques from single-color polish to crystal nails and UV gel nails, allowing people to create different styles for different occasions.

However, while pursuing beauty, it's important to consider health as well. Some of the ingredients in nail polish can cause allergic reactions, especially in low-quality products that may contain harmful substances like formaldehyde and plasticizers.

Formaldehyde is recognized by the World Health Organization as a carcinogen that can increase the risk of nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia, while plasticizers can disrupt the endocrine system and have adverse effects.

Therefore, when choosing nail polish, it is best to select brands with quality assurance and avoid purchasing cheap products from unverified sources.

The history of nail polish dates back to ancient Egypt, where pharaohs would cover their nails with gold foil as a symbol of status and identity. In modern times, nail polish formulation has become more refined and diverse, with waterproof polymers added to make the color more durable and stable.

The first modern nail polishes were inspired by quick-drying car paints, with added nitrocellulose and synthetic resins to enhance durability, creating a fashion trend.

Although the components of nail polish are complex, using it properly does not pose significant health risks. Occasional use of nail polish by general consumers is not likely to cause problems, but for professionals like nail technicians who handle nail polish regularly, extra precautions are advisable.

Activated carbon masks offer limited protection against organic solvents, so nail technicians should work in well-ventilated areas to minimize the risk of inhaling these solvents and avoid long-term health issues.

For everyday nail care, it is recommended to use a base coat before applying nail polish, as it can act as a barrier to prevent pigments from penetrating the nail and causing yellowing or brittleness. After applying nail polish, a top coat can be used to protect the color and shine, extending the duration of the polish on the nails.

It is important to note that some people may experience an allergic reaction to the chemical solvents in nail polish, leading to contact dermatitis. Symptoms of allergies may include dry, cracked skin around the nails, redness, and small blisters.

Individuals experiencing these symptoms should avoid using polishes with strong irritants and reduce the frequency of nail treatments.

In addition, the chemical components in gel and acrylic nails may also cause allergic reactions, and frequent applications may even cause the nail to separate from the nail bed, increasing the risk of infection.

Although nail art is an essential beauty ritual for many, it is advisable to reduce the frequency of applications. Allowing nails to take a break periodically helps them stay healthy and recover their natural beauty. If any abnormalities appear in the nails, it is best to consult a dermatologist to ensure timely restoration of nail health.