| Summary: | Nail dye is a cosmetic product that is typically used by women to enhance their beauty and improve their appearance. Non-waterproof acrylic nail polish presents a challenge for Muslim women who wish to undergo ablution. In this study, we utilized natural nail dyes derived from dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) as alternative sources, while expanding the range of colour options available for nail dyes. This study involved water extraction methods for dragon fruit pigments and ethanol extraction methods for turmeric pigments. The pigment molecules in the extract were detected using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and the extracted pigment content was determined using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. Subsequently, dragon fruit pigments and turmeric have been incorporated into a range of nail colour formulations. To evaluate the performance of these formulations, a grayscale was employed to assess their impact on human nails and water permeability. FTIR analysis showed that dragon fruit and turmeric pigments were present at 3334 and 3310 cm-1, respectively, which corresponded to the -OH stretch of the betacyanin pigment. The extraction yield of dragon fruit pigment was 20.08%, while the yield of turmeric pigment was 12.34%. The study findings showed that nail dye made with dragon fruit extract produces a reddish-purple hue, whereas turmeric extract results in a vibrant yellow colour in human nails. In the water permeability examination, the nail dye derived from dragon fruit extract exhibited superior water penetration, with a percentage of 94.79%, compared to 67.58% for the turmeric extract. Dragon fruit-based nail dyes are less uniform and absorbent than turmeric extract-based nail dyes. Therefore, there is a need for further research to enhance the extraction methods and formulations of natural nail dyes to achieve better properties. © 2025 Penerbit Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. All rights reserved.
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