When Was Nail Polish Invented: History of Nail Polish

A long-time beauty staple, nail polish has adorned the hands of ancient dynasty leaders, Hollywood icons, and now modern-day salon shelves. But how did nail color come to be? How has it changed over time? And what does the future hold for your favorite shades? Let’s take a journey through the colorful history of nail polish.

When Was Nail Polish Invented?

Around 3000 BCE in Ancient China, the first known use of nail color was documented as part of royal beauty rituals. Natural ingredients were used to create early formulas, including beeswax, egg whites, gelatin, and vegetable dyes. Nail color wasn’t just used to achieve elegance, it was symbolic. In Ancient Egypt, noble classes stained their nails using henna, with deeper reds reserved for those of higher rank, including pharaohs.

History Of Nail Polish

While nail polish was used as a symbol of power in ancient civilizations, it was not until much later that the contemporary polish we know began to take shape. During the 1920s, French makeup artist Michelle Ménard created the first lacquer inspired by automobile paint, and ushered in a major breakthrough. This polish offered a glossy, pigmented finish that was both long-lasting and fashionable.

As the 1930s arrived, major cosmetic brands started to produce commercial nail polish in glass bottles with built-in brushes. Shades like red and pink became signature colors, especially during the glam Hollywood era.

How Has Nail Polish Evolved From Ancient Times To Today?

• Ancient Times: Nail looks were created using natural dyes from plants and minerals to signify wealth and status.

• Early 20th Century: Nail lacquer became widely available to the public, with composition focused on shine and wear. 

• Post-WWII Era: Coordinated with lipstick, nail polish debuted as an established cosmetic product.

• 1970s-80s: Bold colors and shiny finishes make their way to the forefront, popularizing exciting and unique nail looks. 

• 2000s to Now: Innovation makes way, bringing fast-drying, chip-resistant, and clean ingredients, along with a focus on the benefits of nail care.

What Did People Use Before Nail Polish?

Before polish, people used natural materials like henna, crushed petals, and herbal pastes to tint nails. In some cultures, nails were buffed to a natural shine or dyed for ceremonial rituals.

Who Created The First Commercial Nail Polish?

Charles Revson and Charles Lachman, co-founders of Revlon, launched the first opaque nail enamel in 1932. This would not have been possible without the formula developed by Michelle Ménard, an innovation inspired by automobile paint that replaced the sheer stains of the past. It was then commercialized and brought to market through Revlon, revolutionizing nail color with a bold, creamy finish that paved the way for present-day manicures.

How Did Hollywood Influence Nail Polish Trends? 

Silver Screen Glamour

In the 1930’s and 40’s, Hollywood’s Golden Age catapulted nail polish onto the big screen and the mainstream. Rita Hayworth, Marilyn Monroe, and Ava Gardner, often seen with perfectly painted fingertips, established red nails as a symbol of poise and allure. Just as iconic as their hairstyles and makeup, their manicures became an everyday luxury that women across the country started to emulate. 

Manicures in the Spotlight

As close-ups became more commonly used in film, perfectly polished nails were glamorized and turned into a self-expression staple. Audiences were inspired to seek out the same sophistication they saw on-screen, which influenced color trends and nail shape and length.

Advertising and Accessibility

With rising demand from the public, beauty brands took note and began featuring movie stars donning the latest nail colors in print ads, magazine spreads, and product placements. Nail polish, previously seen as a novelty, was now aspirational and attainable, with Hollywood credited as the heart of its rise.

What Were The Most Popular Original Nail Colors?

Early commercial polishes focused on classic, flattering hues. Red captured confidence and glamor, pink added a delicate and feminine touch, and nude tones delivered an understated, clean look. Coral brought a bold twist, bright, lively, and full of personality. These stunning shades remain staples in many present-day collections around the world.

Nail Polish Today and Future Trends

• Clean Beauty: Blends free of harmful ingredients are becoming the industry standard. 

• Multi-Tasking Polish: Nail color with benefits like strength, hydration, and growth support are highly valued and sought after.

• Gender-Inclusive Marketing: Nail polish is being embraced across all identities.

• At-Home Innovations: From gel alternatives to quick-dry tech, DIY manis are more accessible than ever.

• Bold Expression: Expect even more color, texture, and finish experimentation in the years ahead. 

A Timeless Touch

From ancient self-care rituals to today’s expressive nail trends, manicures have remained a symbol of individuality, creativity, and care. Whether you’re into bold reds, sheer blushes, or treatment-based formulas, the nail products of today offer something for everyone, and the evolution is far from over.

Explore Londontown's collection of nail color and care essentials, where every formula is rooted in innovation and designed to deliver beautiful results with botanical benefits.

Sources

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nail_polish
2. https://www.byrdie.com/history-of-nail-polish
3. https://www.dipwell.co/blogs/when-was-nail-polish-invented
4. https://www.suveria.com/blogs/love-in-vegan-luxury/the-fascinating-history-of-red-nails-from-bold-statements-to-viral-trends
5. https://www.opi.com/blog/nail-trends/opis-most-iconic-pink-and-red-shades
6. https://www.demibluenaturalnails.com/post/healthy-nail-trends-2025-non-toxic-sustainable-minimalist-designs
7. https://www.bangstyle.com/posts/the-top-beauty-trends-for-2025-5580