The History of The Manicure

The history of the manicure

Black polish is no longer for Halloween. Black polish can also have a very sophisticated look when dazzled with a nice amount of subtle bling.

The history of the manicures dates back thousands of years and can be traced to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Babylonia, and China. These cultures believed that long nails were a symbol of cleanliness, beauty, wisdom, and communication with deities. Here are some highlights from the history of manicures: 

3200 BC

The oldest manicure set was discovered in Babylonia, and Egyptians were already manicuring their nails. The Egyptians used henna to tint their nails, and red to indicate social class. Cleopatra VII Philopator is said to have painted her nails terracotta with henna.

• Wealth
• Status
• Power
• Class

Interesting facts about nails

Ancient Greece

Manicurists avoided painting the lunula, which they associated with Selena, the mother of divination and literature, rather than the moon.

Ming Dynasty (1368–1644)

Both men and women had well-manicured nails, and used egg whites, wax, and vegetable dyes to create varnishes in colors like dark red and black.

1920s and 1930s

Manicures became more popular, and women began to adopt more liberal views.

1970s–1980s

During the punk movement, nail art became a way to express individuality and non-conformity. Dark colors, metallic finishes, and unconventional designs became popular, and gel nails allowed for longer-lasting manicures.

Today, manicures are common, especially before big events or in the summer.