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Nude Nail Polish Colors for Every Skin Tone
May
Introduction to Nude Nail Polish
There was a time when nude nail polish referred to a single light-toned skin color, overlooking the many shades that nude can truly represent. Thankfully, that era is over. The new nude polishes run the full spectrum of skin tones, and with toned-down “clean girl” manicures and “soap nails” having a major moment, demand has never been higher.
Finding the Perfect Nude Shade
Finding a nude polish that works well with your skin tone is easier than ever, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a perfect match. "Don’t try to match your skin exactly or else you’ll get the dreaded mannequin hands," says nail artist Miss Pop, referring to the nails that look like an uncannily seamless, matte extension of your fingers. "Instead, look for a color that celebrates your skin’s undertones." And that color may surprise you. "Pale, creamy nude tones work well with medium skin tones because they highlight the inherent tan hue of the skin while providing just the right amount of contrast," nail artist Jin Soon Choi tells Allure.
Determining Your Ideal Nude Shade
To determine your ideal nude shades, thoroughly examine your entire hand. “Don’t test nail polish just on the back of your hand. Test it against your palm, too,” Miss Pop advises. “Your fingertips tend to be more similar. In my case, my palm and fingertips are ruddy. The back of my hand is a completely different shade.”
Expert-Approved Nude Nail Polish Shades
Here are some expert-approved nude nail polish shades for a wide range of skin tones:
Essie Nail Lacquer in Marshmallow
With “soap nails” catching on so strongly, Miss Pop says the looks-great-on-everyone Marshmallow is the ideal option for creating the look yourself. “It makes for a deliciously sheer, off-white shade that is surprisingly flattering on a variety of skin tones,” she says of the beloved bestseller.
Zoya Naked Manicure Perfector
Think of Zoya Naked Manicure Perfectors as no-makeup makeup for your nails. “They come in a variety of skin tones,” says Miss Pop. “They create an extremely sheer veil, and I love using them for French manicures, negative space nail art, or simply as strengtheners.”
Daisy DND Lacquer in Perfect Nude
Nail artist Dawn Sterling can’t stop singing the praises of both the lacquer and gel versions of DND’s Perfect Nude. This glassy polish is buildable, allowing you to create a jelly-like look while letting the features of your natural nail show through. “Two thin coats are perfect for any skin tone,” Sterling says.
OPI Nail Lacquer in Put It In Neutral
"The best neutral for fair skin is pink because it supports the pink and blue undertones in pale skin tones," says Choi. But not just any pink. Unsurprisingly, a pale, beige-y pink like OPI’s Nail Lacquer in Put It In Neutral is a true winner for the lightest skin tones.
OPI Nail Lacquer in Bubble Bath
Another ideal choice for the soap nail trend is OPI Bubble Bath, which Miss Pop describes as “the perfect sheer, pale pink.” Sterling agrees with Miss Pop, telling Allure that she loves combining this classic OPI shade with Put It In Neutral.
More Nude Nail Polish Options
Other great options include:
Daisy DND Lacquer in Sunset Suede
A peachy polish with stunning warm tones that can be mixed with other shades for a customized nude look.
Orly Breathable Treatment + Color in Kiss Me, I’m Kind
A sheer, pastel peach that works for paler skin tones with a colder, more pink undertone.
Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Color in Naked
A nude shade that looks especially awesome on warm, olive skin tones, with a non-damaging staying power and gorgeous glossiness.
Londontown Lakur Enhanced Colour in Crowning Crumpet
A uniquely gorgeous nude shade with a sheer, conditioning formula that creates a glossy finish.
Mischo Beauty Nail Lacquer in Bebe
A pinky beige shade that looks best on medium skin tones, helping to brighten the natural skin tone.
Nude Nail Polish for Dark Skin Tones
For dark skin tones, consider the following shades:
Mented Cosmetics Nude Nail Collection in Brown & Bougie
A super-shiny, opaquely pigmented polish that proves neutral can be striking.
Zoya Professional Lacquer in Louise
A boldly rich dark brown with cool undertones that complement the skin’s own undertones.
Conclusion
With so many options available, finding the perfect nude nail polish shade can be overwhelming. However, by considering your skin tone and undertones, you can find a shade that celebrates your natural beauty. Whether you prefer a sheer, natural look or a bolder, more statement-making shade, there’s a nude nail polish out there for you.
FAQs
- What is the best way to find my perfect nude nail polish shade?
Test the polish on your palm as well as the back of your hand to get a more accurate match. - Can I wear a nude nail polish if I have dark skin?
Yes, there are many nude shades available that complement dark skin tones, such as coffee-colored hues like cocoa and mocha. - What is the difference between a sheer and opaque nude nail polish?
A sheer polish will give your nails a natural, subtle look, while an opaque polish will provide more coverage and a bolder finish. - Can I mix different nude shades to create a customized look?
Yes, many nail artists recommend mixing different shades to create a unique, personalized look.
