Chrome nails have become a go-to trend, especially for celebrities like Zendaya, Beyoncé, and Rihanna, who have popularized this sleek, high-shine look. Initially, chrome nails were exclusive and expensive, but as chrome powders have become more accessible and affordable, this trend has spread to the general public.
Here’s a quick breakdown of chrome, metallic, and holographic nails:
- Metallic nails are created using pearlized metallic paints. These give a fine, glittery effect with colors like gold, silver, or bronze, but metallic finishes are available in nearly any shade.
- Holographic nails have less shine than chrome but feature a rainbow ombre effect that shifts colors depending on the light.
- Chrome nails offer a sleek, monochromatic, high-shine finish that looks like molten metal. Unlike metallic nails, chrome lacks visible glitter or foil particles, giving it that uniform mirror effect.
To achieve chrome nails, you’ll need a few essentials:
- LED nail lamp
- Gel base coat
- Gel top coat
- Chrome powder or metallic gel polish
After applying your gel color and curing it under the LED lamp, you’ll rub chrome powder onto each nail before sealing it with a gel top coat. A final cure under the LED lamp locks in the ultra-glossy finish. Holographic nails follow a similar process, but you use holo powder instead of chrome powder to get that rainbow effect.
For black and brown skin, chrome and metallic finishes really pop, offering a stunning contrast that highlights the richness of darker skin tones. Shades like silver, rose gold, and bronze create a striking, glamorous look, while holographic and chrome effects in bold colors (such as emerald, sapphire, or plum) bring an extra level of vibrancy and sophistication. The mirror-like shine of chrome nails looks particularly beautiful on deeper skin tones, providing a high-impact, fashionable manicure.
