Ombre nails are super-hot right now. Ever have trouble deciding between two colors? We’ve got you covered, hombre!
All puns aside, ‘ombre’ is actually a French word that translates to “shaded” and refers to the increasingly popular hair and nail style featuring a gradient of two contrasting colors.
But you probably already knew that. The real news here is that you actually don’t have to go to a salon to get this fun manicure – you can do it yourself right at home.
Makeup Wedge Method
You may be intimidated to attempt to blend the colors smoothly at home; the old application method indeed does take quite a bit of skill and practice.
It involves using a makeup wedge as the polish applicator, much like you’d use a stamp pad in a stamping project. You cut a makeup wedge to be just larger than the size of your nail.
You brush on two or more shades of product to the sponge, then blot it on your nail. Be sure to coat the entire nail. The sponge naturally blends the colors into each other seamlessly.
As you can picture, cleanup after this step is a bit of a production, as you have to carefully remove any polish from the skin. Using a brush dipped in acetone is effective.
This method is inexpensive with products you already have at home.
Easier Air Ombre Method
A much easier way to do an ombre manicure is with dip powder, because the fine powder allows for a smooth gradient of colors. SNS Air Ombre, a nail art system that professional salons use, can now be ordered online in a kit to use at home.
It’s actually quite possible to create flawless ombre manicures.
Air Ombre can be used with any other type of manicure, including gel, acrylic, or standard nail polish. Simply add Air Ombre on top of your existing manicure.
Apply a base binding agent to the nail and spray the powder mist onto half of the nail until it is evenly coated.
You’ll want to apply at least 2 coats to ensure a vibrant and lasting color.
It is essential to apply a sealer dry to set the powder, which dries almost instantly. If you want to file and shape the nail, apply a second sealer coat after filing.
Additionally, it’s always a good idea to apply a top-coat, either a gel top or a matte top, to protect the color against wear and tear.
Of course, you can also use Air Ombre with another dip powder. If using two spray bottles or a traditional dip powder, apply both powders at the same time. Watch a full video tutorial on dip powder ombre manicures here.
Creative Ombre Nail Styles to Try
With spray-on ombre, the possibilities are endless. Combine your favorite colors or do different color combinations on each nail. Ombre is commonly used with neutral or nude colors for a subtle look that’s still more exciting than a solid color.
Here are a few unique ideas to add some flair to your next ombre mani:
French Ombre
This unique twist on the traditional French manicure is great for those who love a more natural or subtle look.
Use a white Air Ombre on top of a nude or natural pink for this classy style.
This is a great everyday look that can accent any outfit or occasion, casual or professional.
Glitter
Want to spice things up? Glitter is always the answer.
Add glitter to any ombre manicure to make them really sparkle.
Use a neutral tone and lightly sprinkle it over the whole nail, or just add it to one side to emphasize the color blend.
Multi-colored
Although ombre traditionally refers to a blend of two colors, you can use Air Ombre to get creative and mix as many colors as your heart desires.
Try a rainbow or tie dye look; the possibilities are endless.
For some more ideas on beauty overall, check out this post on some Beauty Plans Worth Trying…