Abstract: A composition of matter, for making artificial fingernails, includes a mixture of protein and plastic. The preferred form of protein is gelatin. The preferred plastic is a plastic having a melting temperature of 500.degree. F. or less. In a preferred embodiment, one forms a mixture containing about 2-8%. gelatin (by weight), the balance being plastic. The components are mixed together, liquefied, and injection molded to form artificial fingernails. The artificial fingernails made according to the present invention are strong but flexible. When affixed to a natural nail, they have been found to strengthen the underlying natural nail after being worn for about 2-3 weeks.