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Of all the year's biggest nail trends, there's one that everyone on social media is suddenly raving about again: matte nails. That's right, the manicure finish is officially in its comeback era. Think of it like the edgier cousin of the high-shine looks you know and love that can make textures and nail-art designs really pop.
Unlike newer trends like the "rich girl" designs you've been seeing everywhere, matte nails are timeless. The satiny finish adds a flatness to any nail look and is versatile enough to pair with all designs, including hearts, swirls, smiley faces, and even the classic french manicure. The best part? This style is a year-round staple, with colder months championing darker shades like burgundy, emerald green, or deep brown, while the warmer parts of the year often see more mood-boosting hues. If you want to take things up a notch, there's always the option for matte nail art, too.
Now that we're entering springtime, you can expect to see matte nails with glitter, pastels, neons, and florals taking over your social feeds, plus you may even spot some out-of-the-box designs like clouds or geometric shapes. Whether you want to go bold or keep things simple and classic, there are no limits to what you can do with matte nail designs. Here's everything else you need to know about the comeback trend, as well as some manicure ideas you can bring with you to your next salon appointment.
Best Matte Nail-Polish Topcoats
What we really love about matte nails is how easy it is to create the finish at home or, if you'd like a more complicated design, take it to the salon. Giving yourself a DIY manicure doesn't mean you have to stock up on matte colors, either. Grabbing a topcoat with a matte finish will provide equally flawless results while allowing you to continue using your favorite shades. Some of our favorites include the Essie Gel Couture Long-Lasting Nail Polish ($9), OPI Matte Top Coat ($11), Beetles Gel No Wipe Matte Top Coat ($7), and Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish Matte Top Coat ($9). For anyone on a budget, we also recommend the Wet n Wild Matte Top Coat ($1).
Best Matte Nail Colors
There is no limit to the color options for this staple trend; you can adapt them to your aesthetic. If you're on the hunt for a more grungy look, consider reds and blacks; or opt for pastels and neutral shades if you're after a soft, delicate look. Neon colors will brighten your entire disposition and allow you to add bold patterns and designs to your manicure.
FAQs
Best Matte Nail Colors
If you're on the hunt for a more grungy look, consider reds and blacks; or opt for pastels and neutral shades if you're after a soft, delicate look. Neon colors will brighten your entire disposition and allow you to add bold patterns and designs to your manicure.
Are matte nails in style in 2024? ›
Abstract Matte Purple Nails
You may have noticed that ultra-bright shades of purple are popping up left and right here in 2024. To hop on the trend without investing much, opt for a matte royal purple mani. Keep it solid or incorporate pink, white, and orange accents, as nail artist Jessica Lauritzen did here.
Are matte nails still in style? ›
Matte nail polish was extremely fashionable almost six years ago, then it returned to nail art trends from time to time, but did not stay in them for long. This year, the matte effect manicure is rising again, but it's not the same one you remember.
What not to do with matte nails? ›
Matte nail polish has a viscous and dense texture, which makes quite a thick layer on the nails and you wouldn't want to add extra thickness.
Are matte nails worth it? ›
The upside of matte nails is that they're less prone to chipping and smudging. Matte finishes dry faster than glossy finishes, which means they require less time to apply. They also don't require as many touch-ups as glossy finishes do. Choosing the right nail finish ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Do you put a top coat on matte nail polish? ›
The top coat will bond the other layers of polish, helping the manicure last longer. This is how you get your home manicure to look professional. Remember that a matte top coat is essential since you want a matte manicure.
How do you refresh matte nails? ›
How To Clean Matte Nails?
- Soak your nails. ...
- Wash your hands with gentle soap and water. ...
- Scrub your nails and cuticles. ...
- Rinse your hands and nails. ...
- Dry your hands and nails. ...
- Apply a coat of matte top coat.
However, light matte nails could easily get stained with make-up if not careful. Another downside to wearing matte top is that it chips faster. It also loses it matte-ness faster and reverts to being shiny. If you're matte-ness obsessed, bear in mind that it demand higher maintenance than its glossy sibling.
What nail shape is in right now? ›
Squoval nails
Squoval nails are arguably the most popular shape right now and it's not hard to see why. This style can be adapted to any nail length but is a staple look for those with shorter nails.
What are ballerina nails? ›
Ballet nails are a shape that sits halfway between an almond nail (tapered with a round tip) and a coffin nail (tapered with a sharp tip). "Ballerina nails have a soft, tapered square shape that resembles the pointe shoes in ballet," says expert Amy Oung.
The classic rich-girl nail is long and filed in a tapered square shape, which he says helps elongate your fingers. Next is the color choice: Stick with a full-coverage neutral shade that is either one shade darker or lighter than your own skin tone.
What is a popular nail color right now? ›
Pastel Hues: Soft and delicate pastel nail polish colors are also trending this year. These light shades bring a touch of elegance and femininity to your nails, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle and sophisticated look. Metallic Finishes: Metallic nail polish shades are gaining popularity in 2024.
What messes up matte nails? ›
Matte nail polish may appear shiny if it's exposed to oils, lotions, or hand creams.
Can you do matte nails with regular polish? ›
Apply a regular matte topcoat over the traditional nail polish on a classic manicure for the matte finish. A matte topcoat can be applied over any conventional nail polish color to add a flat, matte finish.
Why do matte nails turn yellow? ›
Even the finest gels and dip powders will only tolerate a certain amount of direct exposure. The UV light from the sun reacts with the chemistry of the nail application, and this alters the color. Not surprisingly, the same holds true of artificial tanning. Harsh chemicals of many kinds can discolor the nails.
Which nail polish lasts longer matte or shiny? ›
Regarding colour, glossy top elevates all hues, including hot and cold colours, light and dark shades. Another pro side to wearing glossy finish is that it lasts longer, and require low-maintenance than a matte finish.
