* Solvents: These are liquids that dissolve the other ingredients and allow the polish to be applied smoothly. Examples include ethyl acetate and butyl acetate.
* Film Formers: These are polymers (large molecules) that create a solid, protective layer when the solvent evaporates. Nitrocellulose is a common film former.
* Resins: These add flexibility, durability, and adhesion to the film.
* Plasticizers: These prevent the film from becoming brittle and cracking.
* Pigments: These provide the color of the nail polish. They are finely ground, insoluble particles dispersed throughout the mixture.
* Other Additives: There might be other ingredients like UV stabilizers to prevent fading, glitter for sparkle, or thickening agents to control viscosity.
Since these ingredients can be separated by physical means (like evaporation or settling), nail polish fits the definition of a mixture.