ABSTRACT
Nail beautification has been practiced for ages and is now a multi-billion-dollar industry. Millions of women use various nail polishes (and nail polish removers) and nail moisturizers to achieve attractive, embellished nails. However, injudicious use of these products might result in a variety of complications including paronychia, onycholysis, keratin granulations (mimicking superficial white onychomycosis), and dull, lusterless, brittle nails. Hence, understanding the science of nail polishes and nail moisturizers as well as the pathophysiology of various complications is essential for prevention and treatment of these complications, thus allowing patients to flash embellished nails without compromising on the health of the nail unit.
