History of Nail Polish Ingredients

 

During the Ming Dynasty (in China), polish was made from a combination of beeswax, egg whites, gelatin, vegetable dies and Arabic gum. We've come a long way, baby!

 

Flaking Nail Polish

 

We know there is nothing more annoying than having to redo your nails because the polish on the tips has begun to flake off! Here's a trick that might minimize this annoyance. Apply the polish in several thin coats, instead of thick ones. Many people find it makes a difference.

 

After You Polish

 

After you've finished your polish application and the polish dries, add a clear topcoat for longer lasting results and a beautiful shine.

 

Where is the best place to store the polishes in my home?

 

For years, the advice has been to store polish in a cool, dark place. And what’s cooler and darker than your refrigerator? Under refrigeration, your polish will last longer and stay fresher. Just make sure the cap is securely closed!

 

Nailing Nutrition

 

What you eat affects the health of your nails. Dry, brittle nails can be a sign that you lack vitamin C, vitamin B12 or calcium. White bands across the nails are caused by protein deficiency, while white spots are the result of insufficient zinc.

 

There are a few simple rules to maintaining nail health. Calcium is a necessary nutrient for strong fingernails and you need plenty of vitamin D to help your body absorb it. Pregnant women often find their nails growing better than ever before. This is because of the body's increased ability to absorb nutrients during this time.

 

As with overall health, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Foods rich in sulfur and silicon, such as broccoli, fish and onions, and foods rich in biotin, such as soya beans, brewers yeast and whole grains, are your best bets. And drink plenty of liquids. Cuts and cracks in nails may indicate a need for more fluids.

Who Invented Nail Polish?

 

The Chinese invented nail polish about 5,000 years ago with favored colors being red and black. Things haven't changed much, have they?

 

 

Early Use of Nail Color

 

The Egyptians used to dip their fingers into orange henna to color their nails.

 

 

 

 

 

Why are there bubbles in my polish?

 

When applying polish, find a room that has no drafts or fans, which can cause polish to bubble. Definitely un-glamorous!

 

Shelf Life of Polishes

 

If stored at room temperature (or cooler) and away from direct light, polish should have a shelf life of about two years.

 

 

 

Tips from the BUFF

 

1. Create your own color by applying a coat of one shade and then a second coat of another.

 

2. To maintain a fresh polish, add a new layer of top coat every other day.

 

3. When applying polish, be sure to bring it over the front edge of the nail and slightly under the tip. This helps prevent chipping.

 

4. The cuticles are often neglected. Don't forget to apply cuticle cream nightly to maintain healthy nails.

 

5. Avoid long soaks in the tub as water can peel off the polish.

 

6. If you are having difficulty growing your nails, have regular manicures, as polish stops you from picking or biting your nails. When your nails look nice, you tend to leave them alone.

 

7. It is better to apply lots of thin coats of color rather than one thick one. Thin coats dry more quickly and last longer.

 

8. Don't like the shape of your fingernails? Consider getting gel nails. They can actually correct the shape of your nails over time.

 

9. When a nail breaks, the best thing to do is cut it off. But here's a trick if the break is low down (and painful): cut a tiny strip of gauze from a teabag, place it over the tear and paint over with polish.