Artificial nails have existed since the Ming Dynasty in China as a status symbol in Chinese society. Today, artificial nails are used as fashion accessories and extensions of natural nails. Artificial nails come with a long list of pros and cons that you need to consider when going this route with your natural nails. There are different types of false nails to choose from with a unique cosmetic appeal. But everything attractive comes with some downsides, ranging from the harsh chemicals used to create the artificial nails to the infections you can get from fake nails. That being said, I believe that without prior knowledge and proper care of artificial nails, your natural nails can be exposed to many dangers. Artificial nails are used to mimic natural nails and add length to those that don't have them. They are used as a shield against everyday objects that can break and injure soft, damaged nails. With artificial nails, women don't have to wait to become beautiful and as the industry grows, so do the different ways to get those fabulous nails. When considering false nails, you are faced with two main techniques: acrylic nails and gel nails. Gel and acrylic nails require applying a mixture of powder and solution to the nail for successful application. However, by using powders and solutions, you are forced to use chemicals that can alter the natural state of your nails. For most people, artificial nails are a quick, hassle-free cosmetic enhancement, but they are very unaware of the harsh chemicals they are exposed to when they go to the nail salon. In the late 1970s, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned a chemical called methyl methacrylate, also known as...... middle of paper ......LEMS. " Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) ) October 24, 1988: NewsBank - Web Archive. November 20, 2013. Fisher, Alexander A. "Cross reactions between methyl methacrylate monomer and acrylic monomers currently used in nail preparations in acrylic. » 345-347. Academic research completed November 18, 2013 Madnani, Nina A. and Kaleem J. Khan. Indian Journal Of Dermatology & Leprology 78.3 (2012): 309-317. November 12, 2013. Shawna. “Danger of Acrylic Nails and MMA ~ by Anne Goldsmith” Dr Mom Hd, May 12, 2011. Web, November 20, 2013. “Making Acrylic Nails Last Longer.” Times of India, The (Mumbai, India) June 19, 2013: NewsBank. Web. November 12, 2013 Williams, Laura, MSEd. “Choosing between gel nails and acrylic nails.” LoveToKnow. Np, June-July 2012. Web November 24.. 2013.