Historical Analysis on Nail Decoration, with an Emphasis on the Development of the Modern Craft

Recorded as early as 3000 BCE, fingernail decoration has exhibited social status, wealth, and power. As nail art has increased in popularity, it is encompassing a larger part of daily life for many individuals. Images of new... [ view full abstract ]

Recorded as early as 3000 BCE, fingernail decoration has exhibited social status, wealth, and power. As nail art has increased in popularity, it is encompassing a larger part of daily life for many individuals. Images of new designs and tutorials offering both cursory and in-depth instructions on how to create these styles are being posted every minute on social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and Snapchat. What led to this rise in both the popularity and the diversity of nail art, and is it here to stay? How has this mass dissemination of imagery and techniques through social media engaged a wider and more diverse audience? With the use of social media, nail decoration has changed from a status symbol to a form of expression for people all over the world.