19 Apr
Did You Know, GlossaryLive Blog

Reviving Ancient Art | A Brief History of Nail Coloring

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Reviving Ancient Art

A Brief History of Nail Coloring

Article by Karen Gainey | Published in 2024

Nail coloring and nail art aren’t just a modern trend; they’re a practice deeply rooted in human history, spanning millennia and cultures worldwide. From ancient civilizations to contemporary beauty standards, the art of adorning nails has evolved, reflecting societal values and individual expression.

The journey of nail coloring begins thousands of years ago, with civilizations like the Egyptians and Greeks pioneering the practice. Ancient Egyptians utilized henna to achieve a striking red-brown hue, symbolizing power and vitality. Meanwhile, the Greeks experimented with yellow flower petals, pollen, and potassium, creating a subtle yet elegant tan tint.

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The Babylonian warriors, known for their strength and prowess, incorporated ground minerals into their pre-battle rituals around 3500 BC, showcasing a fusion of practicality and symbolism. Moving eastward, the Chinese introduced a sophisticated lacquer composed of beeswax and egg whites around 3000 BC, marking a significant advancement in nail coloring techniques.

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By 1000 BC, the allure of precious metals gripped the imagination of nail artists, with gold and silver becoming fashionable choices for adornment. The Chinese, renowned for their intricate craftsmanship, elevated nail artistry by adding gemstones, infusing nails with a dazzling brilliance that captivated onlookers.

Throughout history, nail coloring has transcended mere aesthetics, serving as a symbol of power, prestige, and beauty. It’s a tradition that has endured the test of time, adapting to the changing tides of fashion while retaining its cultural significance.

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Today, nail coloring continues to thrive as a form of self-expression and creativity. From classic shades to bold designs, individuals embrace this ancient art form, channeling their personalities and moods through their manicures. As we celebrate the rich tapestry of nail coloring history, let’s remember that its roots run deep, reminding us of the timeless allure of beauty rituals passed down through generations.

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12 Jan
Did You Know, GlossaryLive Blog

What is onycholysis?

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What is onycholysis?

Medical matters in the nail salon

Article by Alex Fox | Published in 2023

Onycholysis [on-y-chol-y-sis] is the medical term for separation of the finger or toenail (nail lifting) from the nail bed. This condition usually starts at the tip of the nail and can progress towards the eponychium. As the nail plate lifts away from the nail bed, a gap or pocket forms, which can be a potential site for infection. Once the nail has detached it will not reattach and instead, a new nail plate will grow back. This can take around six months for a fingernail. Typically onycholysis only affects one nail, and although it sees the nail plate peel away from the nail bed, it is in most cases painless, however this depends on the cause, since an injury or infection may cause pain or irritation.

What can cause or contribute to onycholysis?

  • Trauma: Injury or trauma to the nails.
  • Infections: Fungal or bacterial infections of the nails.
  • Chemical exposure: Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals, such as household cleaning agents.
  • Psoriasis & other skin conditions: Skin disorders like psoriasis can affect the nails and cause onycholysis.
  • Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience onycholysis as a result of an allergic reaction to nail product ingredients or other chemicals.
  • Medications: Certain medications may have nail-related side effects, leading to onycholysis.

What is the treatment advice?

There is no cure for the nail plate that has already separated from the nail bed epithelium, however treatment can keep new nail growth attached to the nail bed. The treatment of onycholysis depends on its underlying cause. In some cases, addressing the primary issue, such as treating an infection or discontinuing the use of irritating chemicals, can resolve the condition. The nail professional should advise the client to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist or podiatrist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Find out more here: https://nailknowledge.org/nail-knowledge-base/onycholysis

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15 Nov
Did You Know, GlossaryLive Blog

One Stroke: From Canvas to Nails

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One Stroke: From Canvas to Nails

Exploring the Historical Origins of the One Stroke Nail Art Technique

Article by Alisha Rimando | Published in 2023

In 1995 American artist Donna S. Dewberry, patented a ‘One Stroke’ technique that she’d develop. This new idea allowed painters to blend, shade and highlight all in one stroke of a brush. The concept consists of loading a brush with two or three separate colors and achieving the shading and highlighting in just one simple stroke. By 2010 nail technicians around the globe began adopting this technique for their nail art. Archival records and articles Circa 1700’s show that the Schools of Art in the UK trained apprentices in the ‘onestroke’ style as it was a quick method of painting for commercial reasons – to speedily decorate furniture, pottery and trays for selling.

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04 Sep
Did You Know, GlossaryLive Blog

Finger Fashion Factoid

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Finger Fashion Factoid

Ombré nails are a stunning way to express your style and creativity.

Article by Alisha Rimando | Published in 2023

An ombré design is when one color fades into another and the meeting point creates a seamless blend of the two. Ombré is from the French word meaning ‘shaded’ or ‘shading’. It is a degradation of colors from dark to light or light to dark. This technique can be used with any nail art medium. Nail artists previously called this technique a ‘color fade’ or ‘color graduation’ in the 1990’s. The term ombre’ was coined in 2010 when hairdressers set the trend fading hair from dark to light.

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