Cosmetics for Nails
Cosmetics for nails include not only nail polishes, but also preformed nails, sculptured nails, andnail-mending cosmetics. Most women routinely use only nail polishes but it is always worthwhile to know about the other specialised cosmetics available for your service, in case you ever need to use them.
Nail Lacquers: This is the term used for all nail coveringcosmetics: nail enamels, top-coats, andbase-coats.
Base-coats are used to improve the adhe-sion of the nail enamel to the nail. They do not contain colouring agents. They may contain additives like gelatin which are thought to im-prove the quality of the nails.
Top-coats improve the depth and lustre of the enamel and also increase the resistance of the enamel to chipping and abrasion. They are also colourless but may contain sunscreens to protect the nails from sunlight.
All nail enamels.contain cellulose nitrate. Different pigments are added and today there is such an enormous range of colours and finish available in nail enamels.
Nail polish is not bad for your nails: People often say that weiring nail polish all the time is harmful because the nails cannot ‘breathe’ . This notion is totally absurd, because the part of the nail which is painted is dead and anyway does not breathe. On the contrary, if your nails are weak, enamel can actually give it some degree of protection by guarding against breakage as it binds the fragile and flaking nails. Polishes which contain nylon or acrylic also strengthen the nail by fanning a thick coat. For nails which break or flake easily a colourless polish or a base or top-coat can IJeused with advantage because you can keep touching it up without having to remove the original coat.
The main problem with the use of nail polish is that associated with their use, is the use of polish remover. These are very drying be-cause they remove the natural fats from the nails. Sothe frequent use of removers can cause nail problems and must be avoided.
In some people nail polishes do cause allergic reactions. Rashes can appear on any part of the body which comes in contact with the nails - eyelids, face, and sides of the neck. The nails themselves are not affected though the adjoining skin may be involved.