Introduction

It is time we make more informed decisions about the nail polishes we use. It is no longer necessary to purchase brands that use a lot of toxins and chemicals because the market is slowly but steadily being inundated by brands that favour natural ingredients. Using organic and/or vegan nail polish that contain vitamins and natural ingredients is the best way to avoid damage and protect your nails. They use nature’s goodness to keep your nails healthy and strong.

How do you choose a good nail polish brand?

The best way to choose a good nail polish brand is to check the ingredients properly. Try to avoid nail polishes that contain elements such as formaldehyde resin, formaldehyde, toluene, acetone, xylene and parabens. Basically the higher the percentage of natural ingredients the better. Look for products that include vitamin E, natural oils such as sunflower and olive and fatty acids such as omega 9.

Organic, vegan and cruelty free nail polishes do come in a variety of colours giving discerning consumers a greater variety to choose from.

What are the different nail polish types?

Not only are there a fun variety of colours but nail polishes also come in a wide variety of types as well to cater to any required look.

Basic – This is ideal when you want a quick splash of colour without spending too much time

Gel – This is the most durable type of nail polish currently. Application requires drying under a UV light.

Chrome or metallic – This is the perfect choice if you are looking for more expressive styles with extra shine.

Lacquer – This is more durable than basic nail polish and more chip resistant as well. Again ideal if you are looking for quick colour that is longer lasting than the basic nail polish.

Acrylic – Perfect if you are looking for longer lasting nail extensions because when it hardens it can be filed into shape. It is a combination of powder and liquid.

Dip powder – This allows you to grow your nails without damaging the roots as it is a finely pigmented dip powder applied between base coats and a sealant. It is long lasting and does not require too much skill to achieve a beautiful finish.

Poly gel – A hybrid between gel nail polish and acrylic nails this is a good option to get smooth nails. It requires a UV light to dry.

Shellac nails – This is a half gel half basic nail polish which gives you the finish without needing the drying time. It is long lasting and durable and does not cause damage to your natural nails.

What are the different types of skin tones?

To achieve the perfect look it is a good idea to choose a colour that compliments your skin tone, which is the genetically endowed amount of melanin in your outermost layer of skin. This results in pale complexions, tan skin, light skin tones, dark skin tones etc. Besides this we also have undertones, generally categorised as ‘cool’, ‘warm’ and ‘neutral or medium skin tones’ which is basically the subtle shades of your skin tone. While your skin tone can change according to exposure to the elements your undertone remains the same. It is this undertone that plays an important role when choosing makeup colours or nail polish.

To determine your undertone there are easy tests such as by placing a stark white paper against your skin. The hue you notice against it will be the undertone of your skin.

Cool undertones – red and pink with bluish hints

Warm undertones – yellow, peachy and golden hues

Neutral undertones – olive or a balanced mix of the shades above

Which nail polish colour should you pick?

Fair skin and red undertones – If you have a combination of these you can rock sheer nudes with pinkish tints or bluish undertones. Even a sheer taupe will be good. It may be good to avoid nail colours that are too dark such as a deep purple.

Fair skin and yellow undertones – Soft pink polish shades will help your skin look brighter as will polish shades with a natural light bluish hue. A classic mauve will warm up your skin. It would be best to avoid anything to beige or too dark as it will make your skin look dull.

Tan skin and golden undertones – Pink beige or brow beige nudes are ideal even a rose gold will look good, however avoid shades with yellow undertones or that are too pink as it will make your skin look sallow.

Tan skin and red undertones – Shades of cinnamon or creamy browns will highlight your red undertones. Avoid polishes with very white undertones.

Medium olive skin tones and neutral undertones – Bring out the warmer tones in your complexion with gold, peach or creamy beige polish shades. Soft caramel or taupe are also good choices, but you should avoid shades with yellow undertones.  

Dark skin and golden undertones – Consider rich brown hues or mauves along with colours with copper undertones. Avoid shades with ash grey or white hues as they will make your skin look dull.

What are the other factors that should be considered when selecting a nail polish colour?

The colours you opt for will also depend on the occasion such as are you going for an event? Is it formal or more a party atmosphere? Are you going for a sombre event or to something where a pop of colour will be a suitable addition? Then there are colours that depend on your profession or your professional attire.

A classic nude is perfect for any occasion, while brighter colours bring in an element of fun. Deep shades in classic shades of browns or deep red always look professional.

Home manicure tips

With this knowledge you can now enjoy home manicures and guarantee a professional looking finish. There are a few steps to keep in mind so that your nails remain healthy, strong and relatively stain free.

• Always enrich and nourish your nails before a manicure. Use nail and cuticle oils in the days leading up to a manicure.
• Always use a protective base coat as it creates a barrier between your natural oils and the polish.
• Always use a top coat to keep your manicure looking good, shiny and chip free for as long as possible.
• Keep hands and cuticles moisturised

Conclusion

Select quality nail polish brands to keep your nails healthy throughout the manicure. Products with natural ingredients will strengthen and enrich your nails rather than cause them undue damage. Check out your skin tone and undertone today, find your preferred quality nail polish shade and have fun with your manicures!