7 Difference between Nail Polish and Nail Lacquer (With Table)

Many women have embraced fashion and beauty today. It is the reason behind the rapid growth in the fashion and beauty industry.

But ladies put more emphasis on taking care of their nails to look attractive. Nail polish, lacquer, and enamel are the crucial nail care products in the market.

These nail products help to protect the nails from splitting and breaking. But telling the difference between nail polish and nail lacquer can be challenging to some ladies.

So, what is the main difference between nail polish and nail lacquer? The former is a varnish applied on the nails to make them shiny while the latter is a solution that adds thickness to the nails.

This article provides further differences between nail polish and lacquer in a tabular form. Get also to read more about their similarities for deeper insights.

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Comparison Table (Nail Polish vs Nail Lacquer)

Basic Terms Nail Polish Nail Lacquer
Color Range Available in a specific color range. Available in diverse shades and colors.
Chip Resistant No Yes
Significance Aim to give nails a decorate outlook Protect and give nails a stunning appearance
Composition Nitrocellulose mixed with solvents Nitrocellulose mixed with alcohol
Thickness Less thick Super thick
Provides Presentable and designer looks Shine and glow the nails
Recommendation Highly recommended by cosmetics and stylists Not recommended.

What Is Nail Polish?

Nail polish is a cosmetic product used by ladies to take care of their nails. The product adds shine and colors to the nails for decorative purposes.

The nail varnish originated from China and it is not harmful to the nails. It is combined with other products like wax and vegetable dyes to protect the nails from splitting.

The essential components of nail polish are resins, coloring agents, solvents, and plasticizers. Nitrocellulose is usually dissolved in solvent, pigments, and colors when preparing nail polish.

Nail polish is available in specific colors and ranges. Check out the best nail polish deals on Amazon now.

What Is Nail Lacquer?

Nail lacquer is another incredible nail care product valued by many ladies across the world. It helps to protect the nails from breaking and splitting.

Nail lacquer is a quick-drying liquid that leaves a pigment on the nails. The thick polish provides sheen and shades that leave the nails extremely beautiful.

The main component of the nail lacquer is nitrocellulose. It is mixed with resins and plasticizers to make the thick film resistant to soap and water.

Remember to add colors to the mixture to come with nail lacquer. Here is ready-made nail lacquer for you (Check the best deals on Amazon).

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Main Difference between Nail Polish and Lacquer

  1. Nail lacquer is meant for nail protection. Nail polish for decoration purposes.
  2. Nail lacquer is available in specific colors and ranges. Nail polish is available in different shades and colors.
  3. Nail lacquer is thicker than nail polish
  4. Nail lacquer makes the nails look presentable while nail polish makes the nails shiny.
  5. Nail polish is affordable while nail lacquer is expensive.

Similarities between Nail Polish and Lacquer

  1. Both are resistant to chip
  2. Both protect the nails from splitting and breaking
  3. Both are nail care products.
  4. Both are commonly used by ladies

In Conclusion

Telling the difference between nail polish and nail lacquer can be challenging for first-timers. But these nail care products are excellent for protecting the nails from breaking and splitting.

Nail polish is excellent for those people working in offices while nail lacquer is ideal for working in the laundry industry. The thick film lacquer protects the nails from soap and water.

I recommend going for nail polish over nail lacquer. The nail product offers both decorative looks and protective roles. Check out the best nail polish deals on Amazon now.

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