Nail Lacquer vs. Nail Polish: What’s the difference?

Are you trying to learned the difference between nail lacquer vs. nail polish? What’s the difference?

The appeal of a painted nail as a sign of self-care and beauty is undeniable. I distinctly remember lovingly watching my Grandmother paint her nails a classic red every week. She took her time to carefully complete each nail and dry them by waving her hands and ever so gently blowing them with care.

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This ritual introduced me to the world of nail products. Over time, I started experimenting with base coats and various brands claiming they can deliver the best results.

I also started noticing some mainstream brands releasing nail laquers instead of nail Polish.

This one word automatically made it sounds fancier and exotic.

So, what’s really the difference between nail lacquer and nail polish?

Nail Lacquer vs. Nail Polish?

Through my research, I’ve learned that nail lacquer is typically thicker than nail polish. Lacquers typically deliver a thick coating of color onto the nail bed.

Nail polish includes solvents when make the dry time shorter but the formula thinner.

Nail polishes have traditionally come in a wide range of colors compared to nail lacquers.They have also been released in more fashion-forward shades.

Regular nail lacquer has been attributed to helping providing a protective layer to the nail. High-end salons often use nail lacquer since it increases the days of wear.

Nail Lacquer vs. Gel?

Nail lacquer is a type of nail polish that provides increased durability. However, the gel manicure has become popular it provides an increased level of protection.

Lacquer is different than gel polish. Gel polish is cured using a UV light. This secures the formula on the surface of the nail. It can also provide an extended glossy finish and shiny effect. This usually lasts up to 2 weeks without maintenance.

However, gel poilsh needs to be removed using special chemicals and not regular nail polish remover.

Is Nail Lacquer Toxic?

Common ingredients used in traditional nail polishes and lacquers include chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, and DIBUTYL PHTHALATE (DBP) have been used in nail polishes and nail lacquers. The information on these chemicals support the belief that they can be potentially toxic to women’s hormones.

Be sure to check out my post helping you know how to pick the most toxic free beauty products!

What is Formaldehyde?

Formaldehyde resin is most known for being used in the embalming process. The connections between serious and potentially terminal illnesses and formaldehyde vary depending on exposure, but can be reviewed in full here.

What is Toluene?

According to SafeCosmetics.org “Toluene is a toxic chemical used in in nail products and hair dyes. Exposure to toluene can result in temporary effects such as headaches, dizziness and cracked skin, as well as more serious effects such as reproductive damage and respiratory complications.”

What is Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)?

According to the EWG, extended exposure to DBP for women in childbearing age with fetuses in the womb can be at an increased risk for potentially longer term issues.

In general, nail lacquer that’s low or non-toxic will give you the best chance for as little toxic exposure as possible.

Does Nail Lacquer Last Long?

In general, nail lacquer can last longer than nail polish. It’s always best to add a second coat of nail lacquer to ensure a stronger more lustrous look. This can also make it more chip resistant.

How Long Does It Take For Nail Lacquer To Dry?

According to one of the most popular non-toxic brands, Sundays, it takes longer for than most people think for nail polish to dry. There are a variety of factors which can contribute to a nail polish or lacquer’s drying time. This includes how many coats, the color, and the basic components of the nail polish formula in general.

In recent years, I’ve started using and purchasing nail polishes and lacquers that are free from as many toxic chemicals as possible. Thankfully, mainstream brands are releasing more nail paints and lacquers that are free from the major known chemicals that are problematic.

Here are some of my favorite low and non-toxic nail lacquers and polishes:

Jin Soon Nail Polish $18 (Amazon)

This polish is made by the brand Jin Soon which is known for being non-toxic. Their luxurious formulas are popular, well loved, with great reviews. Check this opaque pink color out on Amazon while it’s still in stock.

Nails Inc. $10 (Sephora)

This 21 chemical free nail polish is super affordable, vegan, and Halal friendly.

Sally Hansen Good.Kind.Pure $9.49 (Target)

This is another affordable line that is actually from of 16 potentially toxic chemicals. This can be found at lots of stores, but I usually find them at Target.

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Hopefully, the differences between nail lacquers and polishes is a bit clearer. Also, give the non-toxic (or less toxic) nail polishes a try. I find they are as good or better than the polishes I grew up using.