Difference Between Nail Polish and Lacquer

As the fashion industry grew, women seemed equally interested in taking care of their nails at the same time and making them look attractive. The varnish referred to as nail polish, nail lacquer and nail polish is applied on the nails to make them look shiny and attractive at the same time. The other benefit of these varnishes is to protect the nail from breaking or splitting. Experts believe that nail lacquer and nail polish are the words for the same type of cosmetic product. Apart from this, the local user is of the opinion that nail polish is more associated with nail protection while nail polish is more about making nails look attractive.

Comparison chart

What is nail polish?

The term nail polish is used for the varnish that adds shine and color to the wearer’s nails, as well as protects them from chipping and cracking. It will be relevant to mention here that the term nail polish is on the market for the cosmetic industry all over the world. Generally speaking, people often refer to it as nail polish, but it should not be taken in the literal context, as it is a special type of varnish that is not harmful to the nails. Even many people are of the opinion that nail polish adds much-needed moisturizer to the nail plate, which acts on nail growth. According to experts, nail polish was first used in China thousands of years ago. At that time, the mixture of vegetable dyes, wax and egg white was used as nail polish. The basic component of nail polish are resins, plasticizers, colorants and solvents. Nitrocellulose is dissolved in the solvent such as butyl acetate and pigments and colors are added to it for the preparation of nail polish.

What is lacquer?

Nail lacquer is the other term used for nail polish. Experts believe that shellac is a similar product with a different name. Although, users say that lacquers share many similarities with nail polish, at the same time there are many notable differences between the two. The alcohol is dissolved in a solvent in the nitrocellulose for the preparation of the nail lacquer, which ensures the smooth and shiny finish of the material. Shellac is said to be a thicker material compared to nail polish. Therefore, they require more time to dry. Apart from this common perception regarding lacquer, this type of varnish is more useful for nail protection compared to nail cosmetics. As we know they provide thick coverage on the nail surface, protects the nail from breaking or splitting. Users also believe that shellac acts more like a chip resistant compared to nail polish. Lacquer is also known for providing shine and shimmer, some people prefer to layer the lacquer over the applied nail polish. On the other hand, many people use it as a standalone product that also works efficiently.

nail polish vs lacquer

• Lacquer is more associated with protecting the nails, while nail polish is more about making the nails look attractive.
• Nail polish is available in the specific colors and range while nail polishes are present in various shades and colors in the market.
• As the lacquer increases the thickness of the nails, it is more resistant to chips compared to nail polish.
• Nail polish is used as a stand-alone product with the aim of giving the nails a decorative look, while varnish provides thick coverage as well as making the nails sparkle and shine.
• Nitrocellulose is dissolved in the solvent such as butyl acetate and pigments and colors are added to it for the preparation of nail polish. Rather, alcohol is dissolved in a solvent in nitrocellulose for the preparation of nail polish.