Isla Bennett
Matte nails are a popular trend, and there are several ways to achieve this look. One way is to use a matte top coat, which can be applied over regular nail polish to create a matte finish. You can also try the steam method, where you hold your hands over steam to mattify your manicure. Another option is to use a dip powder kit, which allows you to create a matte manicure at home. Before attempting any of these methods, it is important to ensure your nails are in good shape, as matte nails can highlight any imperfections.
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What You'll Learn
Using a matte top coat
To create matte nails using a matte top coat, start by ensuring your nails are in good shape. Buff the top of your nails gently with an ultra-fine buffer, following a cross pattern rather than going side to side. Filing your nails from side to side can cause unwanted friction and potentially dry out your nails. You can also file down the tips of your nails to get a smooth texture.
Next, choose your colour. For a sophisticated look, try deeper tones such as burgundy or a neutral coral. For a playful palette, opt for brighter shades of blue or pink. Whichever colour you pick, make sure to start with a thin layer and work from the middle first. One middle stroke and two side brush strokes should be enough to cover the whole nail.
Allow your first coat to dry before applying a second coat. Applying a second layer while the first is still wet will result in smudges and an uneven finish. Once your polish is dry, apply a single layer of a good-quality matte top coat, such as Essie's Matte About You Top Coat or OPI Nail Treatment Matte Top Coat. This will help protect your colour from chipping or scraping without adding any extra gloss.
If you want to add another layer of matte, you can, but it's not necessary. You can also use a DIY matte top coat by mixing cornflour with your top coat. Take 1/8 tsp of cornflour per mL of top coat as a starting point and adjust as needed. If you can't get the cornflour to mix well by shaking, leave the bottle upside down overnight.
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Buffing your nails
Prepare Your Nails:
Before you begin buffing, ensure your nails are at your desired length and shape. If you need to file your nails, use the coarsest side of your nail buffer block or a separate nail file. Always file in a single direction, avoiding back-and-forth motions, to prevent nail damage.
Buffing Technique:
Now, you can start the buffing process. Hold the buffing side of your nail buffer block parallel to your nail. Stroke it across each nail in an X shape, using only downward or upward motions. Be gentle and avoid side-to-side buffing, as this can create heat and dry out your nails, leading to potential damage. Aim for six to eight strokes per nail to avoid over-buffing, which can weaken and cause brittleness.
Polishing and Shining:
After buffing, you can use the finer grit side of your buffer or a separate polishing tool to polish your nails. Again, use unidirectional strokes in an X shape, with four to six strokes per nail. Finally, use the smooth side of your buffer or a soft cloth to shine your nails. Lightly move it in tiny circular motions over the entire nail surface until you achieve a glossy look.
Additional Tips:
Buffing is best done about once a month to avoid overdoing it. Always be gentle and avoid creating excess heat or applying too much pressure. If you plan to apply nail polish, avoid buffing to a shine, as this can reduce the longevity of your manicure. Additionally, if you're using gel polish, skip buffing altogether, as you need a slightly rough surface for the gel to adhere properly.
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Steaming your nails
Firstly, paint your nails with your chosen nail polish and let them dry completely. Then, boil some water and hold your nails about 1 foot away from the steam. Be careful not to get too close to the steam to avoid burning your skin. Move your hands and fingers slowly to ensure that the steam reaches all parts of your nails and creates an even matte finish.
You will know that your nails are ready when you start to feel the steam, but be sure not to hold them in the steam for too long, as condensation drops may start to form. This method should only take a few seconds, and you will be left with a chic, velvety, and sophisticated matte manicure.
It is important to note that this method may not result in a neat and perfect-looking manicure, as some darker and lighter spots may appear. However, it can be a great base for further nail art or decorations. Additionally, this method may not work well with all types of nail polish, as multi-hued, pearlescent, and glittery polishes may not look as good when exposed to steam.
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Using a dip powder kit
To create matte nails using a dip powder kit, you will need to follow a few steps. Firstly, prepare your nails by trimming them to the desired shape and size. Push back your cuticles and create a rough texture on the nail plate by filing. You can use a tougher-grit nail file, around 100 grit, to even out your natural nail. Next, apply a thin coat of the base coat to each nail and allow it to dry thoroughly. Make sure to stir the powder before dipping to ensure a thinner and more even application.
Once the base coat is dry, it's time to dip your nails into the coloured powder of your choice. Brush away any excess powder and apply the activator to each nail. Allow the activator to dry for a minute or two until the surface of the nail hardens. You can then smooth out any bumps or unevenness with a nail file.
At this point, if you desire a glossy finish, you can apply a coat of the finishing polish. However, if you want a matte finish, there are two options. One option is to simply buff the glossy shine away to reveal a matte finish. Be cautious to only remove the shine and not the colour, using soft, short strokes when buffing. The other option is to apply a matte top coat over your nails. You can purchase a matte dip top coat or use a gel matte top coat.
It is important to note that dip powder may cause a reaction in people with sensitive skin or allergies. Therefore, it is recommended to take precautions such as wearing a face mask and glasses, using a fan for air circulation, and applying the dip powder in a well-ventilated area.
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Choosing the right colour
When it comes to choosing the right colour for your matte nails, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, matte nails will expose any bumps, breaks, or ridges on your nails, so it's important to ensure your nails are in good shape before you start. Begin by buffing the top of your nails gently and filing down the tips to create a smooth texture. You can use a four-way nail file or an ultra-fine buffer, but be careful not to overdo it, as too much buffing can remove the colour or topcoat.
Once your nails are prepared, you can choose your desired colour. For a sophisticated and elegant look, opt for deeper tones such as burgundy or neutral coral. These colours are perfect for creating a chic and refined appearance. On the other hand, if you're feeling adventurous and playful, go for brighter shades like blue or pink. These vibrant colours will add a fun twist to your matte nails.
When applying the polish, start with a thin layer and work from the middle of your nail first. One middle stroke and two side brush strokes should be sufficient for covering the entire nail. It's normal to see some translucence after the first coat, so don't worry if it doesn't look completely opaque. Just make sure to let the first coat dry before applying the second to avoid smudging and an uneven finish.
Remember, with matte nails, the finish is crucial. A good-quality matte top coat will protect your colour from chipping and give you that sought-after smooth and polished look. You can find specific matte top coats like the OPI Nail Treatment Matte Top Coat or Essie's Matte About You Top Coat, designed to enhance your matte manicure without adding any unwanted gloss.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to make matte nails. You can use a matte top coat, steam your nails while they're drying, or buff your nails post-paint job. You can also use a nail dip kit or a DIY matte top coat made with cornflour or silica powder.
A matte top coat is a quick and easy way to achieve a matte finish on your nails. It can be applied over any nail polish colour to transform it into a matte look. However, it may take longer to dry than a regular top coat, and matte nails are more delicate and prone to chipping.
When you steam your nails while the polish is drying, it minimises the high-shine finish. Be sure to use a facial steamer to avoid the risk of burns.
Wait until your nail polish is completely cured, then use an ultra-fine buffer to gently buff your nails from side to side. Be careful not to buff too much, as this can remove your top coat and shorten the lifespan of your manicure.
You can make a DIY matte top coat by mixing cornflour or silica powder with a regular top coat. You can also use other finely powdered starches such as rice flour or wheat starch.
