We spend a lot of time taking care of our faces, but our hands show age very quickly. You can find beauty in every line and freckle, but sometimes you just want a little lift. Daily lotion and SPF (yes, even on your hands) can go a long way, but a good manicure can also help. Manicurists have seen it all and know which colours look best on hands. Of course, we asked them for a list of the best nail colours that make your hands look younger than they are.
Juli Russell is a famous nail expert and manicurist for Sally Beauty.
Karlene Dunkley is a nail expert and the owner of Tips of Elegance.
Celebrity nail artist for Colour Street, Jacqueline Pham
01 of 09 Milky White
This vanilla milkshake-inspired colour is one of the prettiest neutral nail colours. It can also make your hands look younger. “Sheer white is always a nice change.” “It’s classic and clean,” says Juli Russell, a celebrity nail expert and manicurist for Sally Beauty. “It has a little bit of transparency that lets the natural nail underneath show through, while covering up any flaws or ridges. This gives the hands a polished, youthful look.”
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02 of 09 Jellybean Pink
In the same way, a pale jelly pink colour has a semi-translucent finish and some extra warmth. Russell says, “This colour is like a time machine for your hands and nails.” The jelly pink gives the nail a soft pink tint that makes it look like it has healthy, glowing nails. You can also build up this colour to make it more opaque, which will hide any flaws in the nail plate.
03 of 09 Real Red
A classic true red has stayed popular over the years because it looks good on everyone. Karlene Dunkley, a nail expert and the founder of Tips of Elegance, says, “You can never go wrong with a bright cherry or blue-toned red.” “Reds never go out of style.” A bright red colour makes the nails stand out, not the skin.
04 of 09 Micro French
The French manicure lasts longer than any other type, but today you should choose a micro French, which has only a thin white line at the top. Jacqueline Pham, a celebrity nail artist for Colour Street, says, “The thin micro French is the perfect distraction for short, stubby nails.” “It also makes the nail bed look longer.”
05 of 09 Strawberry Red
If you want to be more daring, look to the juicy look of a plump, ripe strawberry. “It’s new, bright, and a little warm. Russell says, “It’s not too bubblegum or neon, but it has a lively vibrance with just the right amount of red undertone to be fun and look good on most skin tones.” She also says that the bright colour can make dull skin look brighter and give the impression of a smoother, more even complexion.
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06 of 09 Sapphire Blue
Not a fan of neutrals? For a colour like sapphire blue, look in the jewel tone family. Russell says, “This bold colour makes a strong contrast that draws attention to the nails instead of the skin.” No matter how old you are, it’s also an unexpected choice that feels new and young.
07 of 09 Soft Coral
Coral and rosy peach are bright nail polish colours with a lot of warm undertones. If you want your hands to look younger, these are great colours to choose. Dunkley says, “These colours add warmth and a sun-kissed glow that brings vibrant life back into the skin.” “They can also help hide flaws and make hands look healthier, brighter, and full of energy.”
08 of 09 Emerald Green
Emerald green is another nail colour that looks like a jewel and makes hands look younger. This deep colour has a sparkling quality to it, even though it doesn’t have any actual glitter in it. This is because of how it catches the light. Russell says, “The brightness gives it a modern and energetic feel, which keeps the whole look young and stylish.”
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09 of 09 Sheer Chrome
If you want to stay on top of the latest trends, ask your nail tech for a chrome finish on a neutral colour like peach, cream, or nude. Pham says, “It gives a finish like a pearl, sometimes with a little bit of iridescence.” This makes your nails look softer and hides any bumps or ridges. The shine can also make the nails stand out more.
