Ava Monroe
Shattered glass nails are a bold, eye-catching, and chic manicure trend that has gained popularity on Instagram. The look is created by using holographic or iridescent pieces, such as cellophane, mylar, or nail art foils, to mimic the appearance of a broken window or mirror. While there are various methods to achieve this style, including press-ons and nail stickers, using nail polish is one of the most popular ways to create this complex yet gorgeous manicure.
How to use shattered glass gel nail polish
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy to do at home, but more complex than a simple manicure |
| Tools required | Nail polish, base coat, top coat, nail color of choice, reflective/holographic paper, curing lamp (for gel nails), mechanical pencil or toothpick |
| Base color | Any cream color works, but a darker hue will create a more dramatic effect |
| Application | Paint nails with a base color, apply nail glue to areas where you want the shattered glass paper to stick, place shards of glass paper on the nail, seal with a top coat |
| Tips | Use a small brush or nail pick dipped in clear nail polish to easily pick up pieces of shattered glass, do one nail at a time to ensure glue doesn't dry |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a base colour
Firstly, think about the finish of the nail polish. A creme (non-metallic) base colour is often recommended as it allows the metallic and holographic elements of the shattered glass effect to stand out. A dark creme shade, such as black, navy, or deep red, will create a dramatic look and allow the undertones of the shattered glass pieces to stand out. If you want something more subtle, a light creme shade, such as baby pink, lilac, or pale nude, will create a softer, more understated effect.
You can also use a metallic base colour, such as gold or silver, for a bolder look. This can be a fun way to switch up the traditional shattered glass manicure, which typically features silver or gold glitter on a dark base. If you choose a metallic base, be sure to use a non-metallic top coat to create the shattered glass effect, so that your manicure doesn't look too uniform.
Finally, consider the colour of the shattered glass pieces you'll be using. If you're using a variety of colours, choosing a base colour that complements them will help tie the look together. For example, if you're using mostly blue and green shattered glass pieces, you could choose a base colour from the same colour family, such as navy or teal.
Ultimately, the choice of base colour is up to you and should reflect your personal style and preferences. Don't be afraid to experiment with different colours and finishes to find the look you love!
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Applying the base coat
To apply the base coat for a shattered glass manicure, you will need a base coat nail polish, a nail colour of your choice, and a curing lamp if you are using gel polish.
First, prep your nails as you usually would for a manicure. This includes cleaning, filing, and shaping your nails. You can also push back your cuticles.
Next, choose a base colour. A dark hue will create a more dramatic effect, allowing the metallic of the mylar to stand out. You can use any cream colour, but shades like black, navy, baby pink, or lilac are good options. Apply the base colour of your choice to your nails and allow it to dry fully. If you are using regular nail polish, you can apply a quick-dry topcoat to seal the colour.
If you are using gel polish, cure your nails under an LED lamp after applying the base colour. Run your finger over the top to ensure that the surface is smooth and that no pieces are sticking out. You may need to apply a couple of coats of the base colour and cure your nails after each coat.
Once your base coat is dry, you can move on to the next step of your shattered glass manicure.
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Adding the shattered glass effect
To add the shattered glass effect to your nails, you can use nail polish, gel polish, or nail stickers. You can also use holographic or iridescent pieces, such as cellophane, mylar, or special nail art foils.
If you want to use nail polish, first prep your nails and apply a base colour of lacquer. Any cream colour will work, but a darker hue will create a more dramatic effect. Allow the polish to dry fully, and then apply a coat of quick-dry topcoat to seal the colour. Next, apply a coat of opalescent topper, such as ORLY's Kick Glass, and allow your nails to dry.
If you want to use gel polish, start by prepping and manicuring your nails as usual and apply a base colour of gel. You can use any creme colour, but a dark one will be the most dramatic. A deep shade like black will allow the undertone of each piece to be true-to-tone. You can also use a pale pink base to make the design stand out but still catch the light. Cure your nails under an LED lamp, and then apply a thick coat of clear builder gel to seal all the pieces. You may need to do a couple of coats.
If you want to use nail stickers or foils, simply prep your nails as usual and apply the stickers or foils to your nails.
For a more complex look, you can try using loose glitter. First, cut the glitter into shards. Then, stick some clear nail polish onto a piece of paper and use a mechanical pencil, toothpick, bobby pin, or small brush to pick up the glitter shards. Dip your tool into the clear polish, then pick up one of the larger shards of glitter. Place the shard onto your nail, starting with the larger pieces first. You can use a dark base nail polish so the glitter really stands out.
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Sealing the design with a top coat
Start by curing your nails under an LED lamp. This step is crucial if you're using gel polish, as it will harden and set the polish, creating a durable base for your design. If you're using regular nail polish, you can skip the LED lamp and allow your polish to air-dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Once your base colour is dry, it's time to apply the top coat. Select a clear builder gel or a regular clear top coat polish, depending on your preference and the supplies you have on hand. Apply a thick coat of the clear polish to your nails, making sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges. This step will help seal and protect your nail design.
If you're using a builder gel, you may need to apply multiple coats to achieve the desired thickness and ensure all the pieces of your shattered glass design are securely adhered. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next, and run your finger over the surface to check for any pieces that may be sticking out.
For regular nail polish, you can use a quick-dry top coat to speed up the drying process and seal in your design. Apply a thin layer of the top coat polish, ensuring it covers the entire nail, including the edges.
After applying the top coat, allow your nails to dry completely. If you're using a regular top coat, simply let it air-dry. However, if you're using gel polish, you'll need to cure your nails under an LED lamp again. This step will harden the gel polish and create a long-lasting, chip-resistant finish.
By following these steps and sealing your design with a top coat, you'll be able to show off your stunning shattered glass manicure with confidence, knowing that your nail art is secure and protected. Remember to reapply the top coat as needed to extend the life of your manicure and keep your nails looking their best.
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Curing the manicure
Prepare Your Nails:
Start by ensuring your nails are prepped and manicured. It is essential to begin with clean, dry, and shaped nails. Push back your cuticles and lightly buff the surface of your nails to create a smooth base. This preparation will help the gel polish adhere better and increase the longevity of your manicure.
Base Coat Application:
Apply a thin layer of a base coat specifically designed for gel nail polish, such as the Shellac brand. This step will help the colour adhere better and prevent staining. Cure the base coat under an LED lamp, following the recommended time, typically around 10 seconds, to lock in the base layer.
Colour Application:
Select your desired gel nail polish colour. It is recommended to apply two thin coats of the colour to achieve an even and opaque finish. Cure each layer under the LED lamp for approximately one minute per coat. Allow the colour to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Shattered Glass Effect:
Now, it's time to create the shattered glass effect. Using a tool like an orange wood stick, carefully apply the holographic or iridescent pieces, such as cellophane, mylar, or special nail art foils, piece by piece. You can also use materials like ribbon, paper, or nail stickers for this step. Ensure the pieces are firmly pressed into the sticky layer of uncured gel polish. Cure this layer under the LED lamp for approximately one minute to secure the shattered glass design.
Top Coat Application:
Finish your manicure by applying a thin layer of a top coat specifically designed for gel nail polish. This step will provide a glossy finish and help protect your design. Cure the top coat under the LED lamp, following the recommended time, typically around one minute.
Final Steps:
After curing the top coat, your manicure is almost complete. Ensure you wipe your nails with a nail cleanser to remove any residue and add shine. Admire your handiwork, and show off your bold and eye-catching shattered glass gel manicure!
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a base coat and top coat nail polish, a nail colour of your choice, reflective, holographic paper, and a curing lamp (UV or LED) if you want to do gel nails.
First, apply a base coat and then a nail colour of your choice.
Using nail glue, apply a small amount to the areas you want the shattered glass paper to stick, and then begin placing the shards on top of your nail.
Apply a thick coat of clear builder gel to seal all the pieces. You may need to do a couple of coats. Run your finger over the top after curing the first coat to make sure no pieces are sticking out.
You can use any creme colour as a base, but a dark one will be the most dramatic. You can also use nail polish to pick up the pieces of shattered glass and place them on your nail.
