What Is TikTok’s Black Nail Theory? | Makeup.com by L'Oréal (2024)

Anyone who knows me (or has so much as taken a glance at my Instagram profile) can tell you what my favorite color is without hesitation —pink. Baby pink to bubblegum to electric magenta, I absolutely adore pink in all of its forms. My obsession dictates the clothes I buy, the way I decorate my apartment and — you guessed it —the shades I opt for at the nail salon.

All of this is to say that I am the ultimate unlikely candidate to try TikTok’s viral “black nail theory.” If you spend any time on beauty TikTok, chances are you remember “red nail theory” from earlier this year. Posited by TikToker Robyn DelMonte, red nail theory is the theory that men are attracted to fiery red nails, since red is a power color. Black nail theory is somewhat similar — with one key twist.

Lest you think I’m exaggerating about my adversity to dark nail polish, the nail tech at my neighborhood salon immediately remarked on my choice of black, noting that I typically always go for a neutral light pink. After a momentary bout of regret, I committed to the uncharacteristically moody mani.

To my surprise, I immediately loved my new black nails. I couldn’t stop staring at my freshly polished hands. One thing I appreciated about the look was how seasonally-appropriate it looked and felt. Though I firmly believe hot pink is a year-round color, having black nails actually put me more in the mood for fall and I didn’t have to worry about whether my manicure would clash with my darker winter wardrobe. As for the increased confidence? Well, the fact that I unabashedly filmed myself in public on the subway (a definite first for me) is all the proof I need to believe there may be something to black nail theory, after all.


Want to try your own black nail theory experiment? Essie’s Licorice is the perfect striking shade.

What Is TikTok’s Black Nail Theory?   | Makeup.com by L'Oréal (2024)

FAQs

What Is TikTok’s Black Nail Theory? | Makeup.com by L'Oréal? ›

The idea behind black nail theory is that a shiny black manicure can boost your confidence, which is not unlike the purported effects of a classic red mani. However, the goal of painting your nails black is not to attract attention from men.

What does it mean when girls paint their toenails black? ›

Black nail polish can symbolize different things. It represents confidence, it is mysterious and daring. People may also see it as an expression of their individuality.

Does the red nail theory actually work? ›

“I think that the red nail theory is a real thing because psychologically, we associate red with passion, love, and power,” says Hanna. “While it's not necessarily scientifically proven that red nails are attractive, it often makes you appear more confident and alluring.”

Why are so many guys wearing black nail polish? ›

Black nails are a strong statement of individual style that go against traditional gender norms and a symbol of solidarity, pride, and empowerment. Painted nails on men challenge traditional, gendered beauty standards as well as societal norms that discourage expressions of non-straight or non-cisgender identities.

What do black nails indicate? ›

Black Nails

It could additionally indicate a subungual melanoma, or nevus, as well as an adverse effect of some drugs such as psoralens, phenytoin, sulfonamides and antimalarial drugs. Other conditions include malnutrition, thyroid disorders, smoking and hemochromatosis.

What is the black nail theory? ›

The idea behind black nail theory is that a shiny black manicure can boost your confidence, which is not unlike the purported effects of a classic red mani. However, the goal of painting your nails black is not to attract attention from men. It's about doing it as an act of empowerment for yourself.

What does one black fingernail mean on a woman? ›

In fact, the sentiment behind black nail polish on the ring finger actually supports a very noble and important cause. Many people, including some prominent celebrities, have joined hands and painted a single fingernail in solidarity with the prevention of violence that is enacted against children.

What does 💅 mean from a girl? ›

3. A 💅 indicates a sassy tone. Someone may use a 💅 to show that what they've sent is to be read in a bold and cheeky way. In this context, the emoji means “bougie.” X Research source This usage is especially popular on TikTok. “I'd rather be painting my nails than talking to you 💅”

What nail color is most attractive to guys? ›

Nail design: Men like these colors

In a representative survey, the German Paint Institute found that men generally likeblue , but also likegray , black and brown . Both sexes like green about equally, while women are more likely to like red ,yellow ,beige and orange .

What do purple nails mean on a girl? ›

Blue or purple nail beds or nails are a common sign of cyanosis, which is caused by a lack of oxygen in the blood. This type of discoloration can also occur on other parts of the body including the hands, fingertips, toes, nose, lips, and tongue. Cyanosis is often caused by exposure to cold temperatures.

Do guys find black nails attractive? ›

Dark and Mysterious – Allure and Intrigue

Many guys find dark nail polish attractive because it can pique their curiosity and make a bold statement.

What does pink nail polish mean? ›

If you're picking pink at the nail salon, Williams said it's likely that you're a people-pleaser. A pink manicure means you likely try to "make people feel happy," Williams said. FotoDuets/Getty Images. "They're pleasant and feel-good," she told Insider. "They try whatever they can to make people happy."

Is black nail polish classy? ›

Black is always elegant — you just can't beat perfectly manicured black nails for that super chic look. – They are also striking. It's a relatively new trend, so it's going to look edgy and a little bit different.

What do B12 deficiency nails look like? ›

Nail changes in vitamin B12 deficiency present as hyperpigmentation of nails like bluish discoloration of nails, blue-black pigmentation with dark longitudinal streaks, and longitudinal and reticulate darkened streaks. The nail pigmentation associated with B12 deficiency is more frequent in patients with dark skin.

How to get rid of thick toenails quickly? ›

Treatment options for thick nails include:
  1. prescription creams or ointments.
  2. oral medications.
  3. laser therapy or light therapy.
  4. injections.
  5. surgery to remove the nail and allow it to regrow.
May 11, 2022

What do liver failure nails look like? ›

Terry's nails is a type of nail discoloration. The nailbeds look “washed out,” except for a thin reddish-brown strip near the tip. Often, Terry's nails is a symptom of a chronic condition, such as liver failure or diabetes.

What does black toenail polish represent? ›

It represents strength, authority, and elegance. In the world of fashion and beauty, black nail polish is a reflection of confidence, empowerment, and a touch of mystery. Historically, black has been associated with the unknown, the vast cosmos, and the depth of the human psyche.

What does black toe nails indicate? ›

A black toenail can happen because of an injury that produces a bruise called a subungual hematoma , though it can also have other causes such as a nutritional deficiency or an infection. Black toenails can be painful, but they often go away on their own.

What does it mean if a girl has black toes? ›

The most common cause of black toe is repeated trauma from the toe banging against the end of the shoe. Since the big toe is usually the longest toe, the banging produces bleeding and bruising of the nail, causing it to become discolored (often blue and then black).

Do guys like black nail polish on girls? ›

In a representative survey, the German Paint Institute found that men generally likeblue , but also likegray , black and brown .

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