When Was Nail Polish Invented? Uncovering the Colorful Past of a Beauty Staple

When Was Nail Polish Invented? Uncovering the Colorful Past of a Beauty Staple

Nail polish is everywhere today—on your best friend’s fingertips, in dazzling Instagram posts, or even twinkling on your own nails as you scroll through this article. But have you ever stopped to wonder: When was nail polish invented? Who came up with the idea of painting our nails in the first place? The story stretches back thousands of years, filled with surprising twists, ancient beauty secrets, and a few quirky facts that’ll make you see your manicure in a whole new light. In this deep dive, we’ll explore the origins of nail polish, how it evolved over centuries, and what makes it such a timeless trend. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in some juicy details—like what Cleopatra’s nails really looked like—and practical tips to keep your polish game strong in 2025. Let’s get started!