Below are some terms generally used to describe nail polish finishes.

• Shimmer: subtle (usually metallic) color mixed very evenly in base color (typical color balance has more pigment than shimmer, but there are also sheer shimmers)

• Micro-shimmer: very fine metallic/sparkly particles mixed evenly throughout base color (this finish is often smooth to the touch).

• Micro-glitter: fine metallic/sparkly particles suspended in base color (this finish may feel a little rough to the touch, but not always).

• Glitter: chunky and more visible glitter particles suspended in base color (this finish often feels rough to the touch).

• Frost: icy/frosty finish with a predominant metallic look (typical color balance has more frost than pigment).

• Lustre: pearly finish - can be pearl/white, gold, silver or iridescent - not as predominant a finish as a frost, sometimes light-reflecting.

• Creme: no shimmer - a milky, creamy finish....can be sheer or opaque.

• Prismatic micro-glitter or shimmer: fine rainbow colored particles that flash multi-colors & reflect light, some have a holographic or "3D" quality.

• Iridescent: usually gives a color a "flash" of another color, depending on how light is reflected on the surface.

• Opalescent: is similar to Iridescent, although typically has a distinct 'pearly' quality.