Choosing the right glitter for your nails can sometimes be confusing. Want to use regular glitter but unsure about the results? We've researched to answer just that.
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In this guide, we'll explore everything about nail glitter, including the best types to pair with nail polish. No matter your experience with nails, the type of glitter you choose can greatly impact the final look. Let's get started on finding out if regular glitter works on nails!
What Kind Of Glitter Do You Use For Nails?
Using glitter on your nails is okay, but some options work better than others. Generally, cosmetic and specialty-formulated loose powder glitters have the best applications and won't leave your nails looking uneven or chunky.
As we covered, as long as the glitter you use has a fine consistency and isn't too thick, you should be fine to sprinkle it over your nails.
Is Regular Glitter Safe To Use On Nails?
Although regular glitter won't ruin your nails, it most likely won't have as professional of a look as cosmetic glitter. With that in mind, regular glitter is usually toxic, while cosmetic-grade options aren't.
Another significant difference is that cosmetic glitter is colored with pigment, while regular glitter is dyed. This greatly affects how the glitter will react to polish and moisture.
Fine Cosmetic Glitter Powder Set
This powder glitter set has 48 different colors, safe to use on the skin, is high quality, and promises to work well on nails.
Can You Put Glitter On Gel Nails?
Yes, you can certainly add some glitter for those with gel nails. To do this, use fine powder glitter and either mix it with your polish beforehand or sprinkle it over your nails as they are drying.
We recommend using a UV light to dry your nails so the glitter doesn't smudge or run once you are done painting them.
SUNUV Gel Nail Light for Nail Polish
This UV nail drying light is 48 watts, has three timer settings, and promises to get your nails dry in 50% less time.
Can You Put Glitter On Acrylic Nails?
Similar to gel, you can also add glitter to your acrylic nails. When it comes to what type of glitter works best, we recommend using acrylic glitter powder.
To add the glitter to your nails, mix your glitter powder with clear acrylic, grab a nail brush, and evenly apply your mix to your nails.
GLITTIES Iridescent Fine Glitter Powder
This iridescent glitter powder is cosmetic-grade, safe on the skin, comes in a ten-gram jar, and promises to work well on both acrylic and gel nails.
Is Glitter Nail Polish Bad For Your Nails?
Although glitter nail polish is gorgeous to look at, it can damage your nails if you use it too often. Glitter polishes have a glue-like formula that seals the glitter to your nails and almost always requires acetone to remove.
Of course, this doesn't mean glitter nail polish is a no-go; give your nails a break between manicures.
Does Glitter Nail Polish Last Longer?
Between the different kinds of nail polish, glitter options do tend to last longer. This is due to their stronger formulas and thicker consistency. On average, you can expect your glitter nails to last about two to three weeks, depending on how well they are done.
GAOY Chrome Platinum Glitter Gel Nail Polish Set
This glitter nail polish set comes with six polish colors, has a gel formula, lasts up to 21 days, and is non-toxic.
ILNP Cashmere Pink Holographic Nail Polish
This holographic nail polish is chip-resistant, non-toxic, vegan/cruelty-free, and has a neutral look.
How Do You Make Glitter Nails Smooth?
When it comes to making your glitter nails look smooth, make sure to apply a base coat. Next, apply your glitter polish or mix and let it dry on your nails.
UNT Ready For Takeoff Peelable Base Coat
This peel-off base coat is designed for glitter polish, does not contain formaldehyde, and promises not to damage your natural nails.
Once your nails are dry to the touch, apply one to two layers of topcoat to seal your glitter nails and give them a smooth look. Although using loose powder/cosmetic glitter is recommended, you might want to start with a pre-mixed polish.
Beetles Gel No Wipe Top Coat
This gel top coat has a glossy finish, long-lasting formula, low odor, and does not contain harmful toxins.
Can You Put A Matte Top Coat Over Glitter?
For anyone after a matte look, it is possible to use a matte topcoat on your nails. Matte formulas tend to accentuate mistakes in your glitter nails, so make sure to mix and apply them well.
We recommend using a pre-mixed glitter polish, preferably gel, to use with a matte topcoat.
Eternal Matte Top Coat
This two-pack of matte top coats lasts up to 6 days, 0.46 ounces, and promises to give even glossy nails a matte finish.
How Long Do Glitter Nails Last?
Typically, glitter nails should last you between two and three weeks. Depending on whether your nails are gel, acrylic, or pre-mixed glitter polish, this might affect how well they hold out.
Out of the bunch, gel nails will probably last the longest but can be challenging to remove.
Which Nail Polish Remover Takes Off Glitter Polish The Best?
When it comes to removing glitter nail polish, a product's formula is everything. We found that polish removers with acetone do the best job but can be very drying.
We recommend finding a nail polish remover with vitamin E or proteins that will strengthen your natural nails on top of removing glitter polish.
Cutex Strength Shield Nail Polish Remover
This nail polish remover has vitamins E and B5, hydrolyzed silk, a fast-acting formula, and promises to keep nails healthy.
Are Glitter Nails In Style?
For those debating glitter nails, we think they are stylish to a point. When choosing a good glitter color, we suggest sticking with something soft and neutral over neon options.
Although you can never have enough sparkle in your life, super-bright glitter nails might come across as tacky. Of course, if you want a bolder color, that should be fine as long as the glitter you use is on the finer side.
For more glitter nail ideas, head on over to these helpful posts:
11 Sparkling Glitter Nail Designs That Will Light Up Your Look Instantly!
11 Soft Pink And Glitter Nail Art Ideas
Glitter Manicure Essentials
Fine glitter works best for a glitter manicure at home or in the salon. Regular glitter can be used if it's very fine. However, avoid craft or body glitter, as it can dry chunky.
We recommend cosmetic and loose powder glitters for smooth application and safe use. No matter your nail expertise, opt for high-quality glitter and consider using hydrating products for polish removal.
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