Caleb Foster
Aura nails are inspired by the concept of an aura, a coloured energy field around a person or object. The viral nail trend creates an ethereal blend of colours radiating from the centre of the nail outwards, resulting in a dreamy, glowing, ombre, blurry gradient effect. While the look can be achieved at a salon using an airbrush device, there are several DIY methods that can be used at home, with or without an airbrush.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail shape | Rounded edge or square tip |
| Base coat | Matte |
| Tools | Sponge, eyeshadow brush, makeup brush, precision brush, angled pigment brush, sponge eyeshadow applicator |
| Techniques | Dabbing, dry brush, stippling, light tapping and swiping |
| Pigments | Powders, gels, blooming gel, syrup gel, Aura Melt pigments |
| Top coat | Glossy, matte |
| Cure time | 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds |
| Lamp | LED |
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What You'll Learn
Prepping and filing your nails
To begin your aura manicure, you'll want to prep and file your nails. Start by using a nail file to shape your nails. You can opt for a rounded edge or square tip, depending on your preference. After shaping, use a cuticle pusher to push back your cuticles. This will give your nails a neat and tidy appearance.
Once your nails are shaped and your cuticles are pushed back, it's time to apply a base coat. This will create a smooth surface for your colour application and help your manicure last longer. Apply a thin coat of your chosen base coat, such as a nail glaze, and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
If you're using gel polish, you'll need to cure your base coat under an LED lamp. Place your nails under the lamp for 30 seconds to ensure it sets properly. Make sure your nails are positioned correctly so that the light reaches all sides. You can place the lamp on a white surface for better reflection.
Now it's time to apply your background colour. This will be the base colour for your aura effect. Again, apply thin coats and allow each layer to dry before applying the next. If you're using gel polish, cure each layer under the LED lamp before moving on. Avoid full-cover application on the first layer, as the gel polish may not fully cure.
Once you're happy with the opacity of your background colour, it's time to move on to the next step of creating your aura nails. Remember, with the right prep and sealing, your aura nails can last just as long as a regular gel manicure – about 2 to 4 weeks!
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Applying a base coat
To start creating your own aura nails, you will first need to prep and file your nails into your desired shape using a nail file and cuticle pusher. You can shape your nails into a rounded edge or a square tip, depending on your preference.
After shaping your nails, you can now apply a base coat. For this step, you will need a medium but even coat of gel base coat. Apply the base coat to your nails and leave it uncured. Make sure to apply the base coat smoothly and evenly to achieve the best results.
It is important to note that the base coat should be left uncured before moving on to the next step. The base coat provides a foundation for the nail design and helps to protect the natural nail from staining. It also promotes better adhesion of the nail polish and ensures that your manicure will last longer.
Take your time and apply the base coat carefully to each nail, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer of your chosen product. Remember, there is no rush when it comes to applying gel products, as they do not air-dry like regular nail polish.
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Using a sponge to apply colour
To begin, prep and file your nails to the desired shape. It is recommended to use a nail file and cuticle pusher for this step. Next, apply a base coat, such as a clear or nude shade, and allow it to dry completely.
Now, it's time to add colour. Using a small makeup sponge, gently stipple or tap your chosen colour onto the centre of your nail. You can use a new sponge for each colour or clean the sponge between applications to avoid colour mixing. It is important to work on one nail at a time, as the polish may dry before you have a chance to blend it. Repeat this process until you achieve the desired opacity, focusing the colour in the centre and keeping the edges blurred for that ethereal aura effect.
To enhance the gradient effect, try using a slightly damp sponge. Simply wet the sponge, squeeze out the excess water, and then gently stipple on your polish. This technique will prevent the sponge from absorbing too much product, ensuring a smoother and more even application.
Finally, seal your design with a top coat to add shine and prevent chipping. Allow the top coat to dry completely before applying cuticle oil to keep your nails healthy and strong.
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Creating a gradient effect
To create a gradient effect, you can use a gel nail kit and lamp, or simply use a sponge and some gel polish. If you are using a gel nail kit, start by applying a thin layer of base coat to your prepared nail surface. Cure this in an LED lamp for 30 seconds. Apply two to three coats of the background colour, curing in between layers. The aura gradient will show up best on a bright background colour.
Once you are happy with the opacity of the background colour, apply a medium but even coat of gel base coat and leave it uncured. Place a small drop of another gel colour in the middle of your nail and wait 30-60 seconds for the colour to bloom and create a seamless gradient. Work one nail at a time and cure each nail under the LED lamp for 10 seconds to set the design.
If you are using normal polish, start by prepping and filing your nails and applying a base colour. Using a small sponge, slowly dab the second colour onto the centre of your nail. Repeat this step until the colour is opaque in the centre but keep the edges blurred to achieve that gradient effect.
Remember to always make sure your previous coat is dry before applying the next one. Once your polish is dry, apply a top coat to lock your design and prevent chipping.
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Sealing and curing the nails
Curing the Nails
After applying your base coat and background colour, you will need to cure your nails under an LED lamp. The specific timing and process may vary depending on the products used. However, a standard practice is to cure the base coat for 30 seconds in a Pro Cure LED Lamp. Ensure that the nails are positioned correctly, allowing the light to reach all sides. For better reflection, place the lamp on a white surface.
When applying your background colour, use two to three thin coats, curing each layer in between. Avoid applying a full coat on the first layer, as the gel polish underneath may not cure properly. Double-check that the gel polish does not touch your skin. If any mistakes occur, use an alcohol wipe to clean it before curing.
Once you are happy with the opacity of your background colour, apply an even coat of gel base coat and leave it uncured. Place a small drop of your chosen colour in the middle of the nail and wait 30-60 seconds for the colour to bloom and create the desired aura gradient. Work on one nail at a time to ensure precision.
Sealing the Nails
After curing your final colour, it's time to seal the manicure with a top coat. Before applying the top coat, swipe a gel cleanser-soaked lint-free wipe over the nails to prevent pigment transfer. This step ensures that your nails are free of residue and helps the top coat adhere properly.
Apply a matte top coat, such as Ceramic Matte, for the best pigment blend. Cure the top coat for a full 60 seconds in the LED lamp. Make sure your nails are positioned correctly, and wait for the lamp and top coat to cool off before proceeding.
Avoid exposing your nails to sunlight or natural light during and after curing, as it can affect the texture and shine of the gel polish.
Finally, once your top coat is completely dry, apply cuticle oil to maintain healthy and strong nails.
With proper sealing and curing techniques, your aura nails will not only look flawless but also last for several weeks, comparable to the longevity of a regular gel manicure.
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Frequently asked questions
Aura nails, also known as airbrush or blush nails, are inspired by the concept of an aura—a coloured energy field around a person or object. This nail art features an ethereal blend of colours radiating from the centre of the nail outwards, creating a blurry, gradient effect.
You can create aura nails using a gel nail kit, a lamp, and some basic tools. These tools include a nail file, cuticle pusher, and sponges or brushes for application. While not necessary, an airbrush device can be used to ensure perfectly even density and control.
First, prep and file your nails into the desired shape. Apply a base coat and a coloured base, allowing each layer to dry. Using a sponge or brush, apply your chosen aura colour to the centre of the nail and work outwards, creating a gradient effect. Repeat this process until you achieve the desired opacity, curing each layer under an LED lamp. Finish with a top coat to lock in your design.
