Finding the perfect nude polish shade is almost as important as getting a good manicure. It's your one-way ticket to an elegant, minimalist finish, but not all nude hues are created equally. Because while you have the liberty to experiment with any colors you want, you'll eventually find that some colors are just more flattering on your skin tone than others.
Thankfully, there are many options to choose from no matter where you fall on the spectrum of shades! But since picking a polish shade isn’t just touch and go, allow us to break down how to shop for the perfect my nails-but-better shade. Keep scrolling for our guide!
Best Nail Polishes for Fair Skin
Fair-skinned gals should keep an eye on shades that won't make your hands look too pale. There's a fine line between skin-complementing nudes and washed out tips! The goal for lighter skin tones is to make sure the polish gives the right amount of contrast without being too overpowering. Here are some colors that do just that:
1. Orly French Manicure in Pink Nude
Our beauty products have a lot more in common than you think. Just like foundation, nail polishes have different undertones. This beautiful light pink, for example, has rosy tones that will bring out the warmth in fair, yellow-toned skin.
French Manicure in Pink Nude, P525, ORLY, Rustan's
2. Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro in Written In The Sand
Inspired by the colors of the Italian Riviera, the shade Written In The Sand is described as a neutral beige cream. This is the perfect off-white, barely there tint for you; with the added benefit of biotin infused in the formula to strengthen your nails!
Gel Lab Pro in Written In The Sand, P925, DEBORAH LIPPMANN, Rustan's
3. Zoya Naturel Collection in Taylor
Taylor can provide a natural beige wash on fair digits, thanks to its cool undertone that won't "compete" with your complexion's tone. It's a great pick if you want a hint of brown on your digits without going too dark.
Naturel Collection in Taylor, P450, ZOYA, Shopee
Best Nail Polishes for Medium Skin Tones
Deep beige and cream-colored hues are best for accentuating your natural tan. Just think of how your morning coffee looks with a little bit of milk! Plus, these colors can elongate your fingertips and have them look more elegant, while easily matching any outfit.
1. Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish in Fashion
Fashion is a dark taupe that gives just the right amount of resemblance to the naked skin without looking flat. It allows the warmth of your tan skin to stand out; giving your digits a bit of pop.
Nail Polish in Fashion, P795, DEBORAH LIPPMANN, Rustan's
2. Happy Skin x Disney Express Gel Polish in Enchanted Mirror
If you have warmer undertones, the shade Enchanted Mirror will add a natural glow on your nails. Reminiscent of how the sun hits the sand, this warm pink polish will look absolutely enchanting against your skin.
Disney Express Gel Polish in Enchanted Mirror, P249, HAPPY SKIN, Lazada
3. Caronia Nail Polish in Taupe
Caronia's nail polish in Taupe is a flattering sienna hue that's suitable for everyday wear. It also leaves you with a glossy finish to keep your nails looking fresh and youthful.
Nail Polish in Taupe, P37, CARONIA, Beautymnl
Best Nail Polishes for Dark Skin Tones
Those with deeper skin tones can rejoice because your complexion can wear a wider variety of colors. Don’t focus too much on trying to exactly match your tone! Instead, try hues that will either highlight or contrast—much like contouring your face!
1. Orly Breathable Treatment Color Nudes in Down To Earth
Vivid earthy tones are a no-fail way to dress your nails up. This taupe shade will bring out the radiance of your skin, especially if you have a neutral- or warm-toned complexion.
Breathable Treatment Color Nudes in Down To Earth, P495, ORLY, Rustan's
2. Sally Hansen Insta-Dri in Nude-tral
Nude-tral says it like it is. This neutral shade offers a mocha color that will instantly looks chic and timeless.
Insta-Dro in Nude-tral, P224.25, SALLY HANSEN, Zalora
3. Barry M Green Origin Nail Paint in Mushroom
Mushroom has the ideal mix of cream and mauve tones in a rich brown color. Since mauve gives off the slightest hint of purple, it'll make this lacquer pop against your skin.
Green Origin Nail Paint in Mushroom, P249, BARRY M, Beautymnl
4. TENTEN Nail Color in Root Beer
Deeper skin tones shouldn't limit themselves to browns and beige. A beautiful blush shade like Root Beer will ensure that your digits won't look ashy and give you a subtle flush of color.
Nail Color in Root Beer, P160, TENTEN, Lazada
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