New Nail Polish Detects the Presence of Date Rape Drugs by Changing Colors

Nail polish might seem like an excellent accessory for many outfits or looks. But did you know that a certain type of polish could help prevent future date rapes?

Researchers at the North Carolina State University created new nail polish known as Undercover Colors, that actually change hues when near such date rape drugs as Xanax, GHB and Rohypnol. This new item could be particularly helpful as these drugs are both colorless and odorless.

"While date rape drugs are often used to facilitate sexual assault, very little science exists for their detection" said the researchers, via the Daily Mail. "Our goal is to invent technologies that empower women to protect themselves from this heinous and quietly pervasive crime."

Statistics show that a sexual assault happens every two minutes in the United States alone, according to the Washington Post. Furthermore, there are over 3,900 allegations of forced sexual offenses since 2012; that's an increase of close to 50 percent in the span of just three years. 

Though the nail polish is still being tested, the research team is confident about it's future success. The startup has already raised about $100,000 from one investor as the product is still going through the early stages of development.

"This is covert, simple to use and would take the stress of uncertainty away before there is a problem. As a mother with a daughter, I'm happy something like this is in development," a commenter said, via the the Undercover Colors Facebook page.