Nail polish is used to cover the nail for various reasons;

• Appearance
• To cover imperfections and staining
• To strengthen the nail
• To protect the nail
• To co-ordinate with clothes and make up

Types of polish;

• Cream - a matt colour that always requires a top coat.
• Frosted - a crystalline, pearlised effect.
• Base Coat - a grip for polish which helps prevent chipping and staining. Can also help smooth imperfections.
• Top Coat - Provides protection by sealing polish. Prolongs polish, and adds a shine. Some are quick drying.

Types of application;

• Traditional - the whole nail plate is polished.
• French - the free edge is polished in white and the rest of the nail plate is polished in pink, beige or a pastel shade.
• Free lunula - polish covers the whole nail plate except the lunula area.
• Longer nail appearance - the whole nail plate is polished , leaving a slightly larger than usual gap along the sidewalls.

Reasons for polish peeling;

• Not using a top coat.
• Oil and grease left on nail plate.
• Too much polish. Thick application.
• Not allowing enough time to dry between coats.
• Not following aftercare advice.

Reasons for polish chipping;

• Not using a base coat.
• Artificial drying.
• Not enough polish. Thin application.
• Flaky nail conditions.
• Not following aftercare advice.